The best traffic-free bike rides around Shannon Municipal District

When touring Killaloe, the charm of the town can best be captured on the banks of the canal. The route runs along the water and always offers a view over the river to Ballina and the historic Killaloe Bridge. The soothing rippling, the boats gently rocking and the lush green banks can be wonderfully enjoyed from the saddle. The town itself is full of small cafes and restaurants - an ideal place to take a break or start or end the tour. The road itself has a few bumpy spots, but the scenery easily makes up for that.

Craggaunowen is more than just an open-air museum - it's a journey back in time. When you arrive here by bike, you'll be immediately embraced by the peaceful atmosphere of the woods. The path to the castle leads through green leafy tunnels that gently filter the sunlight. At the top of the castle you have a wonderful view of the surrounding area. The reconstructed huts in the fort give a sense of what life was like here once - simple, but closely connected to nature. It's worth exploring the castle and the grounds with its historical replicas at your leisure. The exhibitions are well done and give you an insight into the Celtic past. The stone walls and the surrounding woods have something mysterious about them - almost as if an old warrior could come around the corner at any moment. And after all that exploring? There's nothing better than relaxing with a cup of tea and a piece of cake in one of the small cafes. A relaxed place to let the impressions sink in and strengthen yourself for the next stage.

Quin Abbey is a fascinating destination that breathes history. You cycle through the green countryside of County Clare and suddenly the remains of the old priory church loom before you. Although the roof is long gone, the impressive structure gives a sense of past splendour. The intact cloister and preserved walls tell stories of a bygone era when Franciscan friars lived here. Built on the remains of a 13th century Norman castle, the abbey has a turbulent history. It was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1541, but some friars stayed here until the 17th century. The walls have the air of the past that makes this place special. Access to the abbey is free, but the key can be borrowed in the nearby village if you wish to enter the cloister. The detour is worth it, because just a few steps away are the ruins of St. Finghin's Church, which are also worth a visit. A historic place that offers a quiet atmosphere and at the same time inspires reflection. Quin Abbey is a highlight not only for history lovers, but also for cyclists who want to experience the beauty of the Irish hinterland away from the busy roads.

At Mooghaun Hill Fort, cyclists get their money's worth not only because of the great views, but also because history literally shines out of the ground here. The largest Bronze Age ring fort in Ireland is located in the middle of dense forests, which provide a wonderful backdrop for a little tour of discovery. You will immerse yourself in a time long gone, when life was pulsating here around 950 BC. The route takes you past old walls that once offered protection, and just a stone's throw away you will discover the weathered Tower House - a later building that somehow blends harmoniously into the landscape. The combination of nature and culture can be particularly enjoyed here, even if the path can be bumpy at times. A tip: leave your bike behind and explore the complex on foot - the many details of the walls and information boards about earlier life are worth it. If you fancy a little adventure, we recommend visiting the site of a large gold treasure that was once discovered near the fort. Today, the treasure can be seen in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin, but the atmosphere of the place still gives a glimpse of its splendor.

Super trails to explore in this dense forest. Just don't get lost.

If you are riding through Killaloe, make sure you pedal along Canal Bank for great views over the water to Ballina and Killaloe Bridge. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the town, which also makes it a perfect start and/or finish point on a ride.

Craggaunowen is an open air museum and castle. You can walk to the top of the castle and take in the views, explore the forests, experience the inside of a hill fort and enjoy tea and cake at the end of your visit.

Mooghaun Hill Fort is believed to be the largest in Ireland. It dates back to c.950BC and a huge hoard of prehistoric gold was discovered around 1km to the north which can be seen on display in the National Museum of Ireland Dublin. The Castle or Tower House, is positioned to the north west of the hillfort and both can be visited within these woodlands.