Sperrin Mountains

About Sperrin Mountains Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a range of hills that cross the counties of Londonderry and Tyrone in Northern Ireland, measuring about 100 km2 (~38 mi2). The name derives from “Na Speiríní” in Irish, meaning ‘spurs of rock’. It was designated in 1968.

It originates at Strule Valley in the west to the edge of the Lough Neagh lowlands in the east. The area has a varied landscape, from moors to narrow glens and deep valleys. The Burren area in the south is noted for its many lakes, sandy eskers and glacial features. The Sperrins area is also famous for its historic heritage and folklore.

Tourism

The Sperrins are the second highest and least explored mountain range in Northern Ireland, so expect calm solitude when you visit here.

Activities

Visitors can enjoy walking hiking and climbing, as well as cycling, swimming, and fishing in the lakes. There are a variety of great walks in the area of short and medium length, some on the five designated footpaths in the Sperrins area, others on quiet roads and tracks. For example, the Craignamaddy Circuit is a 21 km (~13 mi) walk through heathered hills and tranquil valleys on off road tracks and minor roads. A circular walk around Lough Fea is just 4 km (~2.5 mi) on flat terrain around the lake with the option of stopping off to do some angling.