Stretch your legs on the peaks and glens of the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spanning the beautiful Mid Ulster countryside.
Explore the unspoilt beauty of the Sperrin Mountains
The breathtaking views, spectacular scenery and miles of untouched landscape of the Sperrins await you. There’s no better way of exploring the wilds of the Sperrin Mountains than on foot, so pack your walking boots and discover this magical mountain terrain for yourself.
Follow Slí an Chairn – Carntogher Way Walking Trail – through the hills above the Glenshane Pass to the stunning views from the historic Carntogher Mountain; walk the Iniscarn Forest Trail to Slieve Gallion, which keeps watch over Lough Neagh from its 528m vantage point; or take the Eagle's Rock Trail through Moydamlaght Forest and up the slopes of the 550m Mullaghmore.
It’s time to stop the clock on the rest of the world, unwind and recharge in the awe-inspiring surroundings of one of Northern Ireland’s best kept secrets. Get away from the hustle and bustle in the magnificent Sperrins.
Out and about in Ireland’s largest mountain range
If you’re planning a walking holiday in Ireland, a visit to the Sperrin Mountains opens up countless hiking opportunities across a vast mountain range. The Sperrins stretch across Mid Ulster through County Tyrone and County Londonderry, forming Ireland’s largest mountain range.
Apart from the majesty and tranquility of the range, one of the best things about walks in the Sperrin Mountains is the sheer variety on offer. The 40-mile span of unspoilt mountain landscape provides walkers with everything from gentle strolls through to more challenging peaks and longer walks suited to regular ramblers.
The very pinnacle of walking holidays
The Sperrin Mountains get their name from the Irish word Speirín, meaning 'little pinnacle’. True to its name, the range has no shortage of peaks so you will have plenty of mountains to explore during your visit to Mid Ulster. Take in spectacular views across Northern Ireland from the twin summits of Crockbrack and Crockmore on the Crockbrack Way.
There’s also plenty of walking to be done in the valleys, lowlands and foothills of the Sperrins. Hike through ancient woodland, around picturesque loughs and across wild peatland. Follow the 2.6 miles around the walkway at Lough Fea, near Cookstown; explore the Reuben’s Glen, an ancient coach road that linked the plantation towns of Draperstown and Moneymore in the early 17th century; or or take the 6-mile Hudy’s Way circular trail around Moneyneena, near Draperstown.
600 million years of history to explore
The Sperrin Mountains were formed around 600 million years ago and stand with the calming reassurance you would expect of something that has been in the same spot for that length of time. Over that time, the Sperrins have become home to an array of plants and wildlife.
While you’re walking through the Sperrin Mountains keep your eyes open for some of the locals, such as the red fox, sika deer, pine marten and the scarce red squirrel. And even though you might be putting your best foot forward, don’t forget to look skyward. Soaring above the peaks of the Sperrins, you can expect to see peregrine falcons, buzzards and sparrowhawks.
