The best traffic-free bike rides in Cratloe Woods

Beautiful abbey, hardly any tourists.

Pretty little place.

After a few kilometers through the Irish countryside, it was time for a little refreshment, and the café offered exactly what I needed: a hot tea and probably the best scones in the area. Particularly practical for us road cyclists - there is a bike repair stand with tools outside. So, while you enjoy your coffee (the free refill is a nice bonus), you can quickly do small repairs on your bike. The atmosphere in the café is cozy, and the outdoor area with the pastel-colored chairs invites you to linger. It's a great place to take a quick breather and get some strength for the next stage. The location is ideal, right on a quiet road, so you can continue your ride in a relaxed manner after the break.

The ancient 14th century monastery, founded by the O'Briens, exudes a special atmosphere that is best explored on foot. The details of the 15th and 16th century sculptures carved in limestone are impressive and give an insight into the craftsmanship of times gone by. Time seems to stand still here as you walk between the ruins and see the tower rising into the sky. The green surroundings around the monastery create a beautiful contrast to the grey stone walls and invite you to linger for a moment away from the streets before moving on to the next stage.

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.

Surrounded by mature pines, oaks and elm trees, the natural landscape of Doon Lough is a perfect gateway to explore Moylussa, County Clare's tallest mountain. There is parking and picnic tables at Doon.

Desmond Castle commands a strategic point on the River Maigue and was built by the Earls of Desmond to control traffic along the waterway. It is an imposing building, even in its ruinous state.