The best running trails around Cabragh

Along the picturesque route near the River Bann, you'll find the Moyallan Pillbox. Built around 1940 as part of Britain's coastal and inland defences, this compact bunker served as an observation post and machine gun nest. Strategically positioned to guard the river crossing and nearby roads, this robust structure is a reminder of a time when this peaceful landscape was on high alert. For the passing cyclist, it's an intriguing stop; its moss-green walls blend almost seamlessly with the surrounding nature, revealing the bunker's secrets only at the last moment. A raw piece of military heritage that sharply contrasts with the tranquility of the present-day countryside.

The Moyallan Pillbox is an intriguing WWII relic that is an unexpected discovery along the River Bann. The old concrete structure, well camouflaged and reclaimed by nature, stands modestly on a hill overlooking the river. The views from here are particularly rewarding on a clear day when the Bann flows lazily across the landscape. It's hard to imagine that this tranquil scene was once strategically important in protecting access to the north from possible invasions. The Pillbox stands just opposite a petrol station, near the roundabout where several roads meet. The location may seem unspectacular, but with a little imagination you can glimpse the history. The concrete block quietly tells of times gone by as you pedal on, leaving the river behind. A quick stop is well worth it - not for the drama, but for the unassuming way in which history finds its place here.

The Gosford Forest Park near Markethill offers an impressive mix of dense forests, open parks and hidden paths on around 240 hectares. As soon as you enter the park, you can feel the special atmosphere, which is enhanced by the mighty Gosford Castle - a building that appears between the trees and is reminiscent of times gone by. The paths are varied and lead you through a wide variety of landscapes. Sometimes you cycle on narrow forest paths lined with tall trees, sometimes you cross open meadows where sheep roam. On sunny days, the light falls through the leaves and bathes everything in a pleasant play of shadow and light. There are both easy family routes and challenging mountain bike routes, so there is something for everyone. The signposting remains a small challenge, however - it is easy to get lost. But discovering new corners also has its charm, and in the end every detour is worth it. There are several benches scattered around the park for breaks, and every now and then you'll come across a food truck offering welcome refreshments.

Gosford Forest Park with XC MTB Trails, hiking gravel paths, a Deer Park, an ancient Castle, Woodlands, Ponds, Streams, Caravan/Camping Park, water taps and catering trucks

On the picturesque banks of the Newry Canal, not far from Portadown, lies a historical gem: Moneypenny's Lock. This lock house, whose history goes back to the beginning of the 19th century, has stood the test of time and today offers visitors a special insight into the past. When you enter the canal museum you feel like you have been transported to another era. The walls bear witness to the days when the lock house was still in full operation and run by the Money family. The constant rippling of the water, the passage through the lock chambers and the hustle and bustle of yesteryear are almost tangible. The exhibition tells the story of Moneypenny's Lock from its early days to the mid-20th century. Through lovingly compiled exhibits and information material, you get a feel for the importance of this place and the people who worked and lived here.

In the heart of Clare Glen, where the forests are thickest and the Cusher River flows gently through the landscape, hikers will encounter two special examples of craftsmanship: the stone bridges of Clare Glen. The first, a delicate miniature bridge, seems to have been made for elves and fairies, so delicate and yet robust as it sits there in the middle of the green thicket. A few steps further rises its big sister, a stately stone bridge of impressive normal size. Both bridges are made of solid stone and bear witness to the masterful architecture of bygone times. As you walk over them, you can hear the gentle rippling of water making its way under the arches. The cool forest that surrounds the bridges offers protection from the midday sun and envelops the hiker in quiet greenery. The chirping of the birds, the rustling of the leaves and the quiet murmur of the water create an atmosphere of peace and contemplation.

A spacious deer enclosure in which an impressive herd of red deer moves freely and majestically. With graceful movements and calm looks, the deer roam the open grassland that spreads out before them. What makes this experience even more impressive, however, is the background against which the scenes take place: a dense backdrop of mighty oak trees that seem to tell stories from times long past, and the dark green tips of the Norway spruces stretching towards the sky. The contrast of the bright grass where the deer graze with the rich, deep color of the forest creates an atmospheric panorama that remains in the memory.

Follow a gravel trail through the shady woodland of Clare Glen Forest alongside the delightful banks of the River Cusher. Enjoy an abundance of hazel, oak, ash, and wych elm trees with an understorey of wild garlic, bluebells, and several species of orchids.