The best traffic-free bike rides in Newtownabbey

Lagan Meadows - a real gem for those who like it quiet but still want a bit of adventure. The path winds through gentle meadows and dense bushes, always accompanied by the gentle melody of the Lagan, which flows leisurely along here. It is a real play of colors, especially in autumn - the leaves shine in all shades of yellow and red, and the grass slowly loses its rich green. On the bike, nature comes directly to you here. The narrow paths are easy to ride, but every now and then there is a small puddle or a tight bend that keeps you alert. Sometimes a dog or a walker crosses your path, so it's better to slow down a bit and enjoy. There are also a few quiet corners where you can stop for a moment and let your gaze wander over the gentle ups and downs of the meadows. It is best to come here early in the morning or in the evening, when there is a special silence over the meadows. The clear air, the scent of damp moss and earth and the gentle rustling of the leaves almost make you forget that Belfast isn't that far away. A real contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city and ideal for a little break.

Ormeau Park - the perfect place for a relaxing bike ride in the middle of Belfast. As the oldest city park in the city, opened in 1871, it offers a pleasant mix of history, nature and leisure activities. The spaciousness and the dense green of the old trees create an atmosphere that immediately brings a bit of peace to hectic everyday life. Here you will find a surprising variety: from BMX and bicycle paths to basketball and tennis courts to bowling greens and a beautifully designed flower garden. For me as a cyclist, the appeal lies particularly in the gentle curves and the wide paths that lead through the green area. In some corners you can still feel the touch of the Victorian era, especially along the beautiful avenues. The park offers many entrances - be it from the Ormeau Road, the Ormeau Embankment or the Ravenhill Road.

Canada Street in Belfast is known for its striking murals, which are deeply rooted in the city's history and culture. These murals reflect Northern Ireland's complex past and tell stories of conflict, identity and community. One particularly notable mural on the corner of Canada Street depicts an Ulster loyalist refugee fleeing to Liverpool. This artwork commemorates the difficult times and movements of people during the Northern Ireland conflict. The murals on Canada Street are not only artistically impressive, but also serve as a constant reminder of history and the progress that has been made since then.

It tells of a past that shaped Northern Ireland - of conflict, tension and the desire for peace. As a cyclist exploring the city, you will pass these walls, which are now colorful and tell stories. These mosaic pictures and works of art bring a lively touch to the once dreary wall and remind us of how far Belfast has come. The Peace Wall still divides neighborhoods and people, but it now serves as a canvas for messages of hope and reconciliation. The feeling of standing right in a place that carries so much history is unique. The silence of the street is broken up by the works that adorn the walls. You may linger here for a moment and let the contrast between past and present sink in.

Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.

Crossing the Lagan over the Lagan Weir in Belfast gives you, as a cyclist, an interesting perspective of the river and the city. The bridge, which runs between the Queen Elizabeth Bridge and the M3 Harbour Bridge, is not only functional, but also part of a larger riverside development project. Before the Weir opened in 1994, the river was highly exposed to the tides. At low tide, the muddy banks dried out and gave off a rather unpleasant smell, especially in summer. Today, the Weir ensures that the river remains even and the waterfront area has become much more attractive - an important step for urban development in this area. The pedestrian bridge over the Weir provides a direct connection between the two sides of the Lagan and offers you great views over the water and the Belfast skyline.

Victoria Park in Belfast is an interesting spot for a short bike ride and a break by the water. It is accessible 24 hours a day and has a quiet lake that is enlivened by swans, ducks and other water birds. The walk around the lake is particularly relaxing, where gently curved paths lead you through the greenery of the park. The complex dates back to 1906 and was designed by landscape architect Charles McKimm, who also designed the impressive tropical hall in the Botanical Garden. You can also explore the small BMX track by bike, which attracts ambitious cyclists - perfect for adding a little variety. On the banks of the lake, the complex offers a beautiful mix of nature and urban flair. Free parking makes access uncomplicated and practical. A walk or a bike ride through this historic park is a refreshing break, especially with the lively birdsong and the proximity to the water. Whether for a short break or a longer stay – Victoria Park offers a pleasant ambience in the middle of the city.

There is a special calmness to the airport road - hardly any traffic, the asphalt smooth under the tires. Trees and green areas line the path on the left and right, giving the route a calming atmosphere, despite the proximity to the hustle and bustle of the airport. A pleasant, fast roll here - perfect for the last leg of the day or a quick boost of energy.