The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ring Of Gullion Aonb

De An Bealach Glas (The Greenway) is a stunning, traffic-free greenway that connects Newry to the monumental Victoria Lock. This 6-kilometre-long 'green route' takes you along the tidal river Clanrye and the sea canal, with the impressive peaks of the Mourne Mountains to your left and Cooley Mountains to your right.

Saint Patrick and Saint Colman's Cathedral is the architectural jewel of Newry and one of Ireland's most impressive Neo-Gothic structures. Construction began in 1825, and upon its completion in 1829, the cathedral made history as the first Catholic cathedral to open in Ireland following the repeal of the penal laws (Catholic Emancipation). Built from local granite from the nearby Mourne Mountains, this edifice exudes a robust yet elegant power. The cathedral is world-renowned for its fabulous interior: the walls and ceiling are adorned with colourful mosaics, meticulously applied by hand by Italian master craftsmen in the early 20th century. For the cyclist, this is not only a visual highlight along the route but also a place of serene tranquility. Its detailed stained-glass windows and monumental tower make it one of the city's most photographed locations and a worthy endpoint (or starting point) for your tour along the Newry Canal Towpath.

Clontygora Court Tomb is a truly special experience on the Ring of Gullion. While travelling along the quiet roads of County Armagh, I discovered this ancient megalithic tomb, also known as 'The King's Ring'. The imposing, upright stones of the U-shaped exedra are a striking sight and provide a fascinating insight into times long past. Although some parts have been damaged over the centuries, the tomb exudes a remarkable atmosphere - as if you are looking back in time. The site, nestled in the rolling hills at the foot of Slieve Gullion, makes the visit a worthwhile break for any cyclist. It is amazing how quiet it is here, with only the gentle breeze whistling through the stones. Those interested in prehistoric sites will also find the nearby monuments such as Ballymacdermot and Ballykeel fascinating. This area clearly has a rich history, which becomes apparent when you take a closer look at the megalithic chambers. I was particularly taken with the two massive portal stones that mark the entrance to the gallery - they seem like silent sentinels that have stood here for thousands of years. The view of the valley and the Newry River completes the experience. It is definitely worth a short detour, especially if you love nature and also have a bit of an interest in archaeology.

In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?

The "Ring of the King", the Clontygora Court Tomb, awaits you on a hill in Slieve Gullion, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Ring of Gullion. This megalithic site with its distinctive Y-shape and central tomb gallery immerses you in the early history of Northern Ireland. The stones, which rise over 2.7 metres into the air, form an impressive exedra that encloses the deep, U-shaped courtyard - it is more than just a collection of rocks, it is a silent witness to times gone by. As you step between the portal stones that mark the entrance to the three-part burial chamber, you can easily imagine how the early inhabitants performed their rituals here over 5000 years ago. Flint artefacts and ceramic finds tell of long-gone cultures that already cultivated this land. From here you have a view not only of history but also of the landscape - a place where you can look out over the green hills and valleys. Close by you will find other megalithic monuments such as the Ballymacdermot Court Tomb or the Ballykeel Dolmen, all of which help to complete the mosaic of the past.

From the Flagstaff Viewpoint you can enjoy a stunning view of the expansive landscape where the Newry River gently curves its way to Carlingford Lough. The view stretches down to the fjord where the land meets the water and the hills in the distance form a picturesque backdrop. The valley opens up between the lush green conifers and you can watch the landscape unfold below you. From up here, the roads and fields look like little veins and patches that tie the whole picture together. It is a place to linger and enjoy the silence - a haven of calm that makes you feel above it all.

The Carlingford Lough Greenway has a special atmosphere as you walk along this section of Newry. With the Newry Ship Canal to your left and the Newry River to your right, you're in the middle of two worlds. The calm waters of the canal reflect the sky, making the surroundings seem almost like a backdrop, while the riverbank on the other side is lush with greenery and wild flowers. The narrow path takes you past flowering gorse and you can smell the scent of the vegetation in the air. It's a route that has its charms in every season, whether it's clear skies or when grey clouds hang low and make the water seem almost mystical. The Greenway is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a leisurely bike ride, enjoying being close to nature - an ideal place to clear your head.

On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.