The best road cycling routes around Carrickmacross-Castleblaney Municipal District

Darver Park has five sand-based pitches and one all-weather astro-turf pitch. It's floodlit and hosts matches with indoor player facilities. For the visitor there is a 2 km (1.2 mile) perimeter trail to walk or access between the pitches for spectators.

We had an amazing day thanks to Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours. Our bikes were well maintained and service was exceptional. We were advised by proprietor James to take the Cooley Tour through this app as the weather was spectacular and it was such good advice. Also recommended a stop off at Lumpers Bar and added a drink voucher for good measure. I can’t recommend these guys enough. The service and standard of care was truly amazing. Do yourself a favour and drop in here and do some cycling - or buy your own bike!!

gravel paths and a tarmac road up the middle, also has public toilets

Roodstown Castle, a 15th century castle, looks imposing even from afar. The well-preserved tower rises on a hill and offers you a glimpse into Ireland's past on your bike ride. As you approach the tower, you can almost feel the history that lies dormant between the thick stone walls. Tower houses like this one were once residences of the Irish landed gentry and tell of a time when life was less comfortable but certainly more adventurous. The surroundings are rural and quiet - perfect for taking a break and seeing the castle up close. You won't find any signs or tourist facilities here, which gives the place a special charm. A little tip: take your time to explore the grounds, but be aware that the path to the castle can be a bit bumpy. As you walk around the tower, you'll discover the small details in the facade that give you a glimpse of what life was like here in the past.

If you're in the area, Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours is definitely worth a visit. The rental shop here has everything you need for a trip - whether you're just looking to rent a bike for a few hours or plan a longer tour through the scenic Ring of Gullion landscape. It's especially handy that they also offer repairs and spare parts if your own bike needs a little rest. I noticed that the equipment was well looked after and the staff were friendly. They took the time to give me some tips on the best routes in the area. The proximity to the main road and hiking trails is a definite plus, especially if you're travelling with children - as I was. The trailer offer for the little ones is a great option for taking the whole family along. The facility itself isn't exactly a highlight, but it does the job. Perhaps a small covered area for the bikes would be a good addition to be better prepared in inclement weather. Nevertheless, for a spontaneous bike tour or a small repair in between, this rental is just the right thing.

Derrymore House has been built in the 18th century by MP Isaac Corry. It has been built in the style of a cottage and less of a manor and therefore nicely fits into the green and lush countryside. Today the building is owned by National Trust. The park around Derrymore House is open to public all year round, while the so called Treaty or Drawing room in the house itself only opens at certain times. More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/derrymore-house

Roodstown Castle is a 15th-century tower house with four storeys and small turrets. The structure had a vaulted ground floor and murder-hole. The castle is a National Monument and worth jumping off the bike to take a look.

There are great views of Newry City, The Mourne Mountains, Carlingford Lough and The Cooley Moiuntains from up here. Flags were raised here to announce arriving boats coming into the lough, hence the name Flagstaff.