The best road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty
24
riders
8
rides
Road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty traverse an undulating terrain in County Derry, Northern Ireland. The landscape features significant natural elements such as Garvagh Forest and the Agivey River, providing varied scenery for cyclists. The region also incorporates historical sites like St. Lurach's Church and the Garvagh Pyramid, adding points of interest along the routes. These road cycling routes offer a mix of well-paved surfaces and dynamic elevation changes.
Best road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty
- The most popular road cycling routeβ¦
Last updated: October 2, 2026
8
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
34.8km
01:29
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
45.8km
02:02
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
26.4km
01:16
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
68.1km
03:01
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Slaghtaverty
Tips from the Community
Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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It's quite an unusual experience stumbling into a pyramid in the middle of an Irish forest! This pyramid was built in the 19th century as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh and is a lovelly feature to the forest today.
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If there's a good bench out in the wild then it's always a good idea to take a rest. You never know when you'll fund another bench.
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Hit it heavy at the start, then drop gears for the steep middle section, finish strong as it evens out!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Slaghtaverty?
There are 8 road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty, offering a mix of easy and moderate options to explore the region's undulating terrain and historical sites.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Slaghtaverty?
Road cycling routes in Slaghtaverty feature undulating terrain, providing a dynamic landscape. While most surfaces are well-paved and easy to ride, some segments may include unpaved or more challenging sections, requiring good fitness.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Slaghtaverty?
Yes, there are 2 easy road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty. An excellent option is the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Pollan Burn, which is 21.6 miles (34.7 km) long and offers a shorter exploration of the historical church and its rural setting.
What historical attractions can I see while cycling in Slaghtaverty?
You can explore several historical sites. The St Lurach's Church Ruins β Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn takes you past the significant early medieval site of St. Lurach's Church in Maghera. Additionally, the Garvagh Pyramid β Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Pollan Burn leads past the unique 19th-century Garvagh Pyramid within Garvagh Forest.
Are there any scenic routes through natural areas like forests?
Absolutely. The Garvagh Pyramid β Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Pollan Burn is a popular choice, leading through the dense woodlands of Garvagh Forest and along the Agivey River. Garvagh Forest itself is known for its diverse flora, including bluebells and foxgloves, and wildlife like red squirrels.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Slaghtaverty?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for road cycling in Slaghtaverty. Spring offers the beauty of bluebells in Garvagh Forest, while summer provides pleasant weather for exploring the varied landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any longer road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For a longer ride, consider the St Lurach's Church Ruins β Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn, which is 33.5 miles (53.8 km) long and typically takes over 2 hours to complete. This moderate route explores historical sites and the surrounding countryside.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the Slaghtaverty area?
Yes, many of the routes around Slaghtaverty are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Garvagh Pyramid β Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Agivey and the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Slaghtaverty?
Road cyclists often praise the region for its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The undulating terrain provides engaging rides, and the presence of landmarks like St. Lurach's Church and the Garvagh Pyramid adds unique points of interest to the routes.
Are there any specific points of interest within Garvagh Forest for cyclists?
Within Garvagh Forest, cyclists can discover the intriguing Garvagh Pyramid, an unusual 19th-century folly. The forest also offers scenic woodland paths and follows the Agivey River, providing a tranquil cycling experience. For more information on Garvagh Forest, you can visit nidirect.gov.uk.
Are the road cycling routes around Slaghtaverty suitable for families?
The region offers routes with varying difficulty levels. While some routes are moderate, there are also easy options like the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve, which is 29.6 km long with less elevation gain, making it potentially suitable for families with some cycling experience.
Most popular routes around Slaghtaverty
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