The best traffic-free bike rides in Newry And Mourne

The route winds gently uphill, offering small clearings through which you can catch a glimpse of the valley and the sparkling water in the distance. The air here is wonderfully fresh and filled with the surrounding forests. During the climb you can feel the peace of the forest, accompanied only by the hum of the tires on the asphalt and the chirping of the birds. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent panorama.

The well-signposted paths lead you through dense forests and offer impressive views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The mountain bike routes in particular are varied and require both fitness and technique. However, some sections can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age. The approach there is steep, but the view makes up for the effort.

The well-signposted mountain bike trails take you through dense forests and offer breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The descent from the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age, is a particular highlight. However, some sections are technical and require a certain level of riding technique. The trails can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. Another plus point is the proximity to the charming village of Rostrevor, where you can relax in one of the cafes after the tour.

This small, traditional fishing port offers an authentic insight into the maritime life of the region. The well-maintained paths along the port allow for a pleasant ride with views of the Mourne Mountains in the background. However, it can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A particular highlight is the proximity to Kilkeel Port, the most important fishing port on the down coast, which is home to one of Ireland's largest fishing fleets.

Suddenly this ancient monolith rises before you, a silent witness to times gone by and myths. It stands alone on the green meadow, surrounded by a peaceful, almost mysterious silence.

The Yellow Road takes you straight into the heart of an impressive landscape that takes your breath away. The path winds gently through the undulating, lush green that stretches to the horizon. The further up you go, the more the view of the valley opens up and you can almost feel the vastness around you. Once you reach the top, the world suddenly seems to stand still - no sound except the gentle wind that blows over the blades of grass.

There’s heaps to do when you visit Kilbroney park so bring a picnic, kids, dogs, bikes, walking boots and enjoy the day. Start at the Visitor Centre and learn about the forest and extraordinary Cloughmore Stone. There are tennis courts, play area, sports fields, an arboretum, walking and bike trails in the forest. Fiddler’s Green was once used for local entertainment and festivals.

Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.