The best road cycling routes around Ballindoalty

Remains of the medieval Dominican priory on the west side of Carlingford, recognisable by its high, narrow windows and the elongated ruin wing in grey stone. The site lies quietly just outside the centre, with views of the hills and the open grass around the old priory walls.

This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.

The highest bar in County Louth along the Táin Way. A traditional Irish pub that offers a cozy interior with a warming fire and excellent food. A favourite amongst locals and hikers!

Taaffe's Castle is a fortified merchant's house dating from the early 16th century, built by the wealthy Taaffe family, who later became the Earls of Carlingford. Situated near the old harbour, the building originally served as a trading post on the ground floor with residential floors above. The architecture displays typical defensive features such as machicolations, narrow loopholes, spiral staircases, and multi-level garderobes. [curiousireland.ie], [castles.nl], [carlingfor...centre.com] The main structure is a four-storey rectangular tower, later extended with a 16th-century northern extension. Its location and construction clearly demonstrate Carlingford's importance as a thriving trading town during that period. After the 17th century, it fell into disuse, and eventually fell into disuse. Today, it forms part of a pub complex and remains a striking example of medieval urban defensive architecture in Carlingford.

Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle, is a striking 12th-century fortress overlooking the charming medieval town of Carlingford and its scenic harbour. Built by Hugh de Lacy to guard the strategic Lough, the castle has a commanding presence with its weathered stone walls and rugged silhouette against the water. Though partially in ruins, it still captures the atmosphere of Ireland’s Norman past, and its elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

There's something special about the atmosphere inside - the light-flooded rooms, the smell of freshly baked pastries and the lively background noise make the place a little oasis for cyclists. Perfect for getting out of the saddle for a moment and recharging your batteries with a good coffee. There's a wide range of snacks and pastries on offer and the relaxed atmosphere invites you to stay a little longer than you had originally planned. Even though it can get a little crowded at times, you can usually find a spot to look out over the hustle and bustle.

A quick stop at the coffee and snack hut next to Lumper's Bar is just the thing to recharge your batteries after a challenging stage. The small hut offers everything a cyclist's heart desires: fresh coffee, sweet waffles and hearty snacks that give you the energy you need for the next stretch. With the smell of freshly brewed coffee in the air and the cozy atmosphere, it's easy to take a quick breather and rest your legs here. The location right on the road makes it an ideal stopover, even if the traffic can be a bit noisy at times. But hey, who cares about small things with such beautiful surroundings and typical Irish hospitality? The colorful bench and the small decorations give the place a special charm that invites you to linger - even if it's just for a moment.

Nice path, here you can jump over the small wall and are directly in the ruins ;)