Share

Features

Ride North – finding flow in Northern Ireland’s trail centres

Killian Callaghan and Kelan Grant strike gold north of the border

Northern Ireland may not be home to the biggest mountains but with three world class trail centres nestled within 90 minutes’ drive of each other, you’re still spoiled for choice when it comes to riding.

Just an hour and a half’s drive from Dublin and you’ll be in the heart of the Mournes, home to Rostrevor (of Foxhunt fame) and Castlewellan that provide nearly 70km of trails and downhill tracks. Just a bit further afield are the Sperrins and Davagh Forest with even more great riding.

We’ve said it before, but we think Northern Ireland is ideal for a weekend’s roadtrip/mini break. That’s exactly what young, up-and-coming enduro racers Killian Callaghan and Kelan Grant do in the video above and we think it looks rad.

 

Here’s a more in-depth look at the riding on offer:

Mountain biking in The Mournes

The Mournes in Northern Ireland have become synonymous with mountain biking. Right on the border with the Republic of Ireland, they’re ideal for trying somewhere new close to home. Hit up Rostrevor’s two iconic purpose built DH trails, or tear into the mouth-watering 27km of red XC trails. If that isn’t enough, Rostrevor also has 19km of black trail to raise the heartbeat!

When you’re finished there, visit the incredibly popular trails at Castlewellan – home to 19km of flowing red trails, incredible panoramic views, and a variety of options for all riders.

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN The Sperrins

The Sperrins lie at the heart of Northern Ireland and are home to one of its top mountain bike destinations at Davagh Forest. Waiting on you are some lightning quick trails covering over 26km and a skills course. There are also 7.5km of blue trail and 3km of green, in addition to some stunningly scenic views of the Sperrins.

If this has enticed you to make Northern Ireland your next mountain bike trip, the guys at mountainbikeNI have provided some useful information on their website like drive times, travel plan ideas, special discounts and recommendations on where to eat, drink, and stay to help make the most of your RideNorth.

Newsletter Terms & Conditions

Please enter your email so we can keep you updated with news, features and the latest offers. If you are not interested you can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell your data and you'll only get messages from us and our partners whose products and services we think you'll enjoy.

Read our full Privacy Policy as well as Terms & Conditions.

production