Sperrins Scenic Drive

The Sperrin Mountains are Northern Ireland's largest upland area and one of its best-kept secrets. This route crosses the range through lonely valleys, past ancient stone circles, and over dramatic mountain passes where you might not see another car for miles.

Why This Route?

The Sperrins offer genuine wilderness:

• Untouched landscape - One of Ireland's least visited uplands
• Open moorland - Vast expanses of heather and bog
• Ancient monuments - More stone circles than you can count
• Gold country - Real gold has been panned here for millennia
• Dark skies - Exceptional stargazing

The Landscape

The Sperrins are older than the Mournes or Wicklow Mountains - over 600 million years old. The rounded summits reflect their age; erosion has softened what were once sharp peaks. The highest point is Sawel Mountain at 678m.

The Route

Starting from Derry/Londonderry

Begin in this historic walled city. If time allows, walk the 17th-century walls - the most complete city walls in Ireland.

Claudy & Banagher

Head south through rolling farmland. The Banagher Forest has walks and the ruins of a church associated with St Muiredach.

Banagher Glen

A stunning narrow valley carved by glacial meltwater. The road twists through native woodland - watch for red squirrels.

Sawel Mountain Trailhead

The starting point for climbing the highest Sperrin peak. The hike is 8km return through open moorland.

Sperrin Heritage Centre (Cranagh)

Learn about the area's history, geology, and gold-panning tradition. You can even try panning yourself - real gold dust is found here.

Beaghmore Stone Circles

One of Ireland's most atmospheric prehistoric sites - seven stone circles, twelve cairns, and ten stone rows aligned to the sun and moon. Best visited at dawn or dusk.

Gortin Glen Forest Park

A forest park with a scenic 5-mile drive, walking trails, and wildlife enclosures including a Sika deer herd.

Gortin Lakes

Beautiful upland lakes for fishing and walking.

Barnes Gap

A dramatic mountain pass with panoramic views - the "spiritual heart" of the Sperrins according to locals.

Walking Options

Sawel Mountain

• Distance: 8km return
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
• Highlights: Highest point in the Sperrins, panoramic views

Vinegar Hill

• Distance: 6km loop
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Blanket bog, mountain views

Gortin Glen Trails

• Various lengths available - from 1km to 8km
• Well-marked forest trails
• Suitable for families

Gold Panning

Gold has been found in the Sperrins since prehistoric times. The Sperrin Heritage Centre offers panning experiences, and you're genuinely likely to find flakes of gold in your pan.

Stargazing

The Sperrins have some of Ireland's darkest skies. For the best experience:

• Visit on a clear, moonless night
• Davagh Forest has a designated Dark Sky Park
• OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory offers organised events

Practical Tips

1. Fuel up before entering the mountains - No petrol stations in the interior
2. Mobile signal is patchy - Download offline maps
3. Weather can change quickly - Bring layers
4. Beaghmore is signposted - But the final road is narrow
5. Allow extra time - The roads are slower than you'd expect
6. Bring provisions - Limited facilities in the mountains

Best Seasons

• Spring - Lambing season, wildflowers appearing
• Summer - Longest days, heather begins to bloom
• Autumn - Heather at its best (August/September)
• Winter - Atmospheric but roads can be challenging