1. Start and Finish at Shepherds Rest Pub Campsite

Kickstart your journey at Shepherds Rest Pub, an old, traditional Irish pub that’s more than just a place to grab a drink. Whether you’re fueling up with a pint of Guinness before setting off or celebrating your ride upon your return, Shepherds Rest Pub offers the perfect beginning and end to your adventure. It’s also a well-loved spot for camping and caravan stays if you decide to extend your trip. The traditional charm of this pub, with its warm atmosphere and local character, makes it a favorite among bikers.

2. Goles Stone Row:

Cruise along winding roads to reach Goles Stone Row, a mystical site of Bronze Age stones. This stop offers a fascinating peek into Northern Ireland’s ancient heritage. It’s the ideal spot to take a break, snap a few photos, and soak in the mystery of the ancient world.

3. Nowanois – The Storyteller Giant of the Sperrins.

Continue your ride to visit Nowanois, the mythological giant of the Sperrins. Let the rolling hills and vibrant landscape guide you, as the story of this legendary figure adds an air of magic to your journey.

Learn more about the Giants from the following websites:

• discovernorthernireland.com
• derrystrabane.com
• visitderry.com

4. Loop around Dart & Sawel

Add an exciting loop around Dart and Sawel Peaks, two of the highest points in the Sperrin Mountains. The winding roads and spectacular views make this a must-ride segment for thrill-seekers.

We suggest to start from Cranagh, drive north passing the Dart on your right side, reach Park village and go South to Sperrin village direction passing the Sawel on your right side.

5. Barnes Gap

The Barnes Gap is a mountain pass that motorbike enthusiasts will fall in love with. The road twists through the lush greenery of the Sperrin Mountains, offering amazing views. This is the kind of ride that makes you feel connected to nature with each twist of the throttle.

6. Gortin Glen lakes

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sperrin Mountains, Gortin Glen Lakes is a serene oasis perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This enchanting spot features a series of peaceful lakes surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Visitors can enjoy an array of walking trails, from gentle strolls along the lakeside to more challenging hikes that reward adventurers with breathtaking views of the glen. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to spot local fauna, including deer, birds, and maybe even a red squirrel darting through the trees.

The area is perfect for a family day out, with picnic spots and open spaces to relax and take in the fresh mountain air. For those seeking a tranquil retreat, the gentle ripples of the lakes and the soothing sounds of nature create an idyllic setting for reflection and relaxation.

Whether you’re there for an invigorating hike, a peaceful lakeside walk, or simply to enjoy the beauty of Northern Ireland’s natural landscapes, Gortin Glen Lakes is a gem not to be missed.

7. Gortin Glen Forest Park

A perfect stop for a relaxing break, Gortin Glen Forest Park is filled with tranquil walking trails, lush greenery, and wildlife. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic before continuing on your ride.

8. Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone

Discover the Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone, an ancient artifact carved with early Irish script. This piece of history connects riders with the area’s cultural roots and gives an added depth to the trip.

9. Beaghmore Stone Circles

Tucked away in the tranquil Sperrin Mountains, Beaghmore Stone Circles is a mysterious and awe-inspiring archaeological treasure. This ancient site features seven stone circles, aligned with rows of standing stones and cairns, believed to date back to the Bronze Age. Shrouded in mystery, Beaghmore is steeped in folklore and surrounded by whispers of rituals, star alignments, and sacred ceremonies.

The arrangement of the stones hints at a connection to the stars, with some circles thought to align with celestial events, making it a fascinating destination for stargazers and history buffs alike. The moorland setting adds an atmospheric charm, with the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape enhancing the sense of timeless wonder.

Visitors can wander through this enigmatic site, imagining the lives of those who created it thousands of years ago. Interpretive signs help bring the history to life, but the true magic lies in experiencing Beaghmore’s quiet grandeur firsthand.

Whether you’re exploring its ancient secrets by day or marveling at the dark skies above at night, Beaghmore Stone Circles offers a unique journey into Northern Ireland’s past, where nature, history, and mystery converge.

10. Ceoldán: The Stargazer Giant of Davagh

Deep in the mystical landscapes of Davagh Forest, under one of the clearest dark skies in Northern Ireland, stands Ceoldán: The Stargazer Giant—a magnificent sculpture and a gateway to the cosmos. Crafted to inspire wonder and curiosity, this giant figure gazes eternally at the stars, connecting visitors to the rich celestial heritage of the area.

Ceoldán is more than just a sculpture; it’s a story brought to life, celebrating the region’s ancient myths and the cutting-edge astronomical discoveries made at the nearby OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory. As you approach, you’re greeted by the giant’s intricate details, representing the harmony of human creativity and the vastness of the universe.

By day, Ceoldán is a striking sight against the backdrop of Davagh’s lush greenery. By night, he becomes part of the starlit tapestry, inviting visitors to look up and lose themselves in the majesty of the heavens. Whether you’re marveling at the artwork or joining a stargazing session at the observatory, Ceoldán promises an unforgettable journey into the beauty and mystery of the cosmos. A visit here isn’t just an exploration of Earth’s wonders—it’s a chance to touch the stars.