The best MTB trails around Fathom Upper

The Ring of Gullion is a circular route following off-road trails, quiet country lanes and forest tracks from Newry around the volcanic landscape of the Ring of Gullion AONB. This section follows some fun gravel trails.

Once you leave the city of Newry behind, you cycle towards tranquility on An Bealach Glas, also known as the Carlingford Lough Greenway. This flat, smoothly asphalted path follows the banks of the canal and offers spectacular views of the river's mudflats along the way, where you can spot numerous wading birds and sometimes even a stray seal. The route is a true sensory experience: the salty sea air blows towards you while the mountains seem to get closer and closer. The absolute endpoint of this section is the historic Victoria Lock, an impressive lock complex from 1850 that marks the transition from the canal to the open waters of Carlingford Lough. It is the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy the maritime dynamics before continuing your journey to the coast.

On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.

Beautiful spot deep in Kilbroney Park. Some beautiful hikes from here either into the mountains or down to the sea.

The site can trace its roots back to the 6th century when a monastery for nuns was founded by St. Moninna. The ruins of the two joined churches that can still be seen date from the 11th and the 15th century. Look for the large slab which is said to be St Moninna's grave.

Here, many centuries ago, St. Moninna in the late 5th century sought a place of peace and worship and founded an early Christian community. Although no buildings from her time still stand – for they were made of wood, a testament to their humble existence – the ground itself tells stories from a bygone era. When the wind blows through the grasses, one can almost hear the echo of prayers and songs that once resonated in these sacred halls. The visible testimonies of history are the ruins of two churches. The West Church, built in the 11th century, bears the marks of a time of deep faith and cultural change. A few steps further, the East Church from the 15th century rises, a silent witness to the late medieval era, marked by religious and social transformations. Not only as a spiritual place, but also as a center of learning and community, the monastery founded here functioned. Established in 517 AD by St. Moninna, it gained a reputation as one of the most significant nunneries in medieval Ireland. It became a beacon of knowledge and devotion in a time often marked by turmoil and uncertainty.

Beautiful path surrounded by water on both sides. Incredible way to get into Newry.

Very pretty, quiet, and fun to ride!