Hidden among the mountains and forests of County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, the Giants of the Sperrins are three enormous wooden sculptures that offer a unique reason to explore one of Ireland’s most beautiful rural landscapes.
Created by Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo, the sculptures celebrate the area’s natural beauty, folklore and heritage. Known as Nowanois, Darach and Ceoldán, the three giants represent the past, present and future. Rather than being located in one attraction, they are spread across three sites in the Sperrin Mountains.
Where Are the Giants of the Sperrins?
The three sculptures are located near Cranagh, Gortin and Davagh Forest in County Tyrone. Each has a different setting, from a peaceful rural valley to a mountain summit and a forest known for its dark skies.
Nowanois, the Storyteller, is located on Glenelly Road near Cranagh. Ceoldán, the Stargazer, can be found at the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest. Darach, the Guardian, stands on Mullaghcarn Mountain and is reached on foot from Gortin Glen Forest Park.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit the Giants of the Sperrins is by car, as the sculptures are spread across rural locations with limited public transport connections. From Omagh, the surrounding sites are generally within a 20 to 40-minute drive, depending on the destination.
From Belfast, allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the area, while the journey from Dublin typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. These are approximate driving times and will vary according to your route and destination.
There is parking at all three starting points. Nowanois is reached by a short walk along a gravel path, while Ceoldán is located at the observatory site. Reaching Darach involves a more demanding walk from Gortin Glen Forest Park, with a return route of approximately 7.6 kilometres to the mountain summit.
Check the official visitor guide before setting off for directions and access information.
Can You Visit All Three Giants in One Day?
Yes, visiting all three in one day is possible if you have a car and plan your route in advance. Allow extra time for the walk to Darach, as reaching the summit requires considerably more effort than visiting the other two sculptures. If you prefer a more relaxed trip, you could visit the two more accessible sites and save the mountain walk for another day.
Wear suitable footwear and bring waterproof clothing, as weather conditions in the Sperrins can change quickly.
Where to Stay Near the Giants of the Sperrins
Omagh is a convenient base for exploring the region, with hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and places to eat. For a quieter countryside escape, there are also cottages, cabins and glamping options around the Sperrin Mountains, particularly near Gortin and the surrounding villages. Browse the local accommodation options to find somewhere that suits your trip.
What Else Can You Do Nearby?
Make the most of your visit by exploring Gortin Glen Forest Park, enjoying the walking trails and scenery, or visiting the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory at Davagh Forest. The wider Sperrins region is also known for its scenic drives, quiet lakes and outdoor activities, making it ideal for a countryside day trip or weekend break.
Are the Giants of the Sperrins Free to Visit?
There is no standard admission ticket for visiting the outdoor sculptures. Parking and access arrangements may vary, and additional experiences at the observatory may require advance booking or payment. Check the official visitor information before travelling.
The Giants of the Sperrins offer a different way to discover Northern Ireland’s countryside, combining unusual artwork with mountain scenery, local folklore and outdoor adventure. Whether you visit one sculpture or all three, they are a worthwhile addition to a trip around County Tyrone. “`
