The best traffic-free bike rides in Ring Of Gullion Aonb

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!!

The setting is done with great attention to detail, and it almost feels like a quick picnic in the mountains when you sit down at the rustic tables and look into the distance. The patterned cups and saucers give the place a cozy touch and make the whole thing that little bit more special. The view of the surrounding hills and the relaxed atmosphere invite you to take a short break - perfect for resting your legs and just taking a breather. The coffee house is not only friendly to cyclists, but even offers bike rental for the Ring of Gullion. Handy if you need an extra boost for the next stage! The surroundings are green and spacious, a nice mix of Irish idyll and relaxed hospitality. The owners seem to take the attention to detail seriously, which is reflected in the little things like the decorative elements and the cozy atmosphere.

Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.

The old walls of the two joined churches stand still and weathered amidst tall trees - you can almost feel the history in the air here. It is amazing that the roots of this place go back to the 6th century, when Saint Moninna founded a nunnery here. Today, the ruins from the 11th and 15th centuries still stand, and although much has fallen into disrepair, the remains give a sense of calm and past. A special detail is the large stone slab that is believed to be the tomb of Saint Moninna. It is a little hidden, but if you look for it, you will definitely find it. The old cemetery setting with the Celtic crosses and weathered gravestones adds to the mood. For me, it was a pleasant break from the ride. Here you can sit back for a few minutes, park your bikes and just soak up the atmosphere. It is one of those places that does not scream loudly for attention, but tells its stories in silence

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.

On my way through County Armagh, I came across Moyry Castle, a ruined castle perched on a small hill overlooking the historic Moyry Pass - the so-called 'Gap of the North'. It is fascinating to think of how this strategic route was once crucial in securing control of the region. The castle's massive, weathered walls still speak of the turbulent times of the 17th century when it was built by the 1st Earl of Devonshire, Charles Blount. What struck me most was the atmosphere up here: a mixture of isolation and history. The small rectangular structure with its distinctive curves just has a different feel - not ostentatious or over-the-top, but rather functional and robust. The location offers sweeping views over the rolling hills and the Belfast-Dublin railway line that winds through the landscape. It's quiet up here, with only the gentle sound of the wind and the occasional train passing by in the distance. It's definitely worth a quick stop if you're looking for a place steeped in history that's not too crowded. The site is easily accessible and is well worth a detour from the main route. The surrounding meadows also offer a lovely spot for a little break - perfect for taking in the surroundings.

Moyry Castle stands over the Moyry Pass, also known as "The Gap of the North" - a strategically important crossing that has played an important role for centuries. The small, rectangular castle with its three floors and thick stone walls gives you an idea of the challenges that the defenders once had to overcome. It was built in 1601 by Charles Blount, 1st Earl of Devonshire, to secure the pass and control access to Ulster. As you explore the old fortress, you can see the surrounding landscape, which alternates between rolling hills and forests. It feels like you have been transported back in time, as the walls silently tell of long-ago conflicts. Just a short distance away is the Belfast-Dublin railway line, which shows you how this place has changed over time without losing its historical character. A visit to the castle not only gives you a sense of the country's history, but also of the strategic importance of the Moyry Pass, which has been the link between the north and south of Ireland for centuries.

Gordon's Lane, just a stone's throw south of Camlough, invites you to a quiet journey of discovery. The narrow lane winds gently through the hills and takes you right into the green of the fields. Old stone walls and thorny hedges line the path on either side, while behind every bend you catch a new view of the valley. From up here, Camlough seems almost like a silent model, spreading out in the distance while nature maintains its own rhythm. The path leads you past pastures and you notice how the noise of everyday life quietly fades away. Especially after a rain shower, the asphalt sparkles and the fresh scent of grass is in the air - a little adventure off the beaten track.