Easy hikes and walks around Derrylard

Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.

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.

Ground Espresso Bars Café is located right on the road, making it an ideal stop for cyclists travelling along the Newry Canal Towpath. Just a stone's throw from the River Bann, the small café offers a welcome place to take a quick breather. Here you can recharge your batteries with a cup of coffee or a small snack before continuing on. The atmosphere around the old, charming brick building is relaxed and inviting. Its proximity to the cycle path makes it a meeting point for cyclists and walkers alike. You can have a good conversation here or just watch the cyclists go by while sitting outside. Those who continue along the river soon find themselves in a rural landscape, accompanied by the Craigavon Lakes in the distance.

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.

At the meeting point of the Upper Bann River and the Newry Canal stands this striking signpost - a simple yet interesting construction that shows you the way. It points to places like Scarva, Newry, Portadown and Oxford Island, while the water flows quietly, creating a peaceful atmosphere. It's a moment to pause and take in the surroundings. The flow of the river, the gentle murmur and the green of the banks invite you to leave the path for a while and enjoy the view. You notice that it's not just routes that are described here, but also the connections between the towns and nature - a little reminder that every walk is more than just the path you take.

The Blackwater Riverwalk along The Argory Estate is like a walk through time. You stroll along the banks of the Blackwater, surrounded by flowering meadows and the gentle sounds of nature. The riverside promenade is an invitation to simply unwind. You might spot a kingfisher gliding across the water at lightning speed, or linger for a moment at one of the old kissing gates that make this walk so charming. Bond's Bridge, an industrial-era bridge, is a real reminder of the area's history. It not only connects two banks, but also the past with the present. As you continue walking, you'll feel the air of history that accompanies you here as the river flows along at its tranquil rhythm. If you're arriving by car, there is free parking at Bond's Bridge, although spaces are limited. Alternatively, you can park in The Argory Estate car park if you're visiting the National Trust. In any case, it is worth enjoying this idyllic route at your own pace.

The home's architecture speaks of a time of elegance and artistic expression, and the property's windows capture the changing light that gently falls on the river. But it's not just the country house itself that captivates visitors. The 320-acre property is a nature lover's paradise. A walk through the grounds reveals an impressive variety of flora and fauna. Centuries-old oaks stand next to proud chestnuts, while beeches and linden trees stretch out their branches like protective arms over the paths. The rustling of the leaves, the chirping of the birds and the scent of the earth combine to create a symphonic experience that touches the soul and invigorates the spirit.