The best MTB trails around Ballyleny

Located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh, the trail takes you through a tranquil landscape that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. If you're lucky, you might spot a shy badger, a heron on the bank, or even an otter gliding through the water. The sounds of buzzards circling above the treetops add an almost mystical touch to the setting. The Derrytrasna Cycle Route starts and ends right here, taking you on a relaxed loop that's perfectly integrated into the nature reserve. The paved path changes to a natural path that takes you through dense vegetation. The route is not demanding, but offers just the right mix of relaxation and a slight challenge. In the late afternoon, when the sun is lower and casts golden light over the lake, the island unfolds its very special charm. The scenery is almost picturesque - a nice opportunity to stop and simply enjoy the moment.

The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.

The wave-shaped metal sculpture seems to blend gently into the landscape on the shores of Lough Neagh, as if it were merging with the water itself. In the background lies Ireland's largest lake, whose vastness and still surface exude a special sense of calm. The reflective surfaces of the sculpture catch the light and reflect it back - a play with the elements that subtly enlivens the surroundings. Here you can pause for a moment and enjoy the view. You might sit on a picnic blanket, letting your gaze wander over the glittering surface of the water while breathing in the fresh air. All around you, the nature reserve is lively but at the same time peaceful, and the sculpture is a reminder of how closely art and nature are connected here. A beautiful place to take in the impressions before continuing on your path.

On your hike around Oxford Island, you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest. A bench on the shore invites you to sit down for a moment and enjoy the view of Lough Neagh. The gentle lapping of the water and the swaying trees create a peaceful atmosphere - an ideal place to just take a deep breath. At Kinnagoe Marina, the boats rock in the water, their masts reaching silently into the sky. The reflections in the water and the quiet clinking of the rigging put you in a maritime mood. As you walk further, dense bushes alternate with sparse forest patches through which you can look through and the evening sun's rays illuminate the path. It is a beautiful place to experience nature and tranquility before continuing your hike.

A beautiful reservoir surrounded by forest including a beautiful castle

The Castle has over 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens to discover. Dogs are not permitted within the gardens and café unless they are trained assistance dogs.

The Perfectly kept motte and bailie is placed in a bend of the Lagan River with extensive views along the valley. It is the best preserved and most impressive example in Ulster of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle.

See if you can find your way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Castlewellan Peace Maze, is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes representing the puzzle that was to become a peaceful future for Northern Ireland. To encourage a sense of common ownership, the maze was planted by people from all over Northern Ireland, plus nearly 4,000 school children. Planted in 2000