The best road cycling routes around Ballynahinch

quick service with plenty of space

Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.

Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.

Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva

The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.

Lough Neagh is a real gem for cyclists, especially if you enjoy pedalling along the water. The paths around the lake offer a varied mix of rolling shoreline landscapes, gravel paths and beautiful viewpoints that give you a different perspective of the water every time. What makes this place special is not just the nature, but also the stories that are in the air here - from sunken kingdoms to legendary giants who are said to have created the lake with a single throw. The atmosphere here changes constantly with the weather: on clear days the water sparkles in the sun, while clouds cast a mystical veil over the lake. The picnic areas along the shore invite you to take a short rest and watch the swans and ducks gliding leisurely across the surface. But not everything is idyllic - recent environmental problems such as the blue-green algae plague are a constant theme. It shows that this magical place needs care and attention to maintain its charm. The best way to do this is on a bike that can handle going off the beaten track. The wind can sometimes blow strongly across the lake, which requires a bit of extra energy, but you will be rewarded with great views. A tour around Lough Neagh combines history, nature and small adventures - an experience that always reveals new facets.

Located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh, the trail takes you through a tranquil landscape that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. If you're lucky, you might spot a shy badger, a heron on the bank, or even an otter gliding through the water. The sounds of buzzards circling above the treetops add an almost mystical touch to the setting. The Derrytrasna Cycle Route starts and ends right here, taking you on a relaxed loop that's perfectly integrated into the nature reserve. The paved path changes to a natural path that takes you through dense vegetation. The route is not demanding, but offers just the right mix of relaxation and a slight challenge. In the late afternoon, when the sun is lower and casts golden light over the lake, the island unfolds its very special charm. The scenery is almost picturesque - a nice opportunity to stop and simply enjoy the moment.

Ground Espresso Bars Café is located right on the road, making it an ideal stop for cyclists travelling along the Newry Canal Towpath. Just a stone's throw from the River Bann, the small café offers a welcome place to take a quick breather. Here you can recharge your batteries with a cup of coffee or a small snack before continuing on. The atmosphere around the old, charming brick building is relaxed and inviting. Its proximity to the cycle path makes it a meeting point for cyclists and walkers alike. You can have a good conversation here or just watch the cyclists go by while sitting outside. Those who continue along the river soon find themselves in a rural landscape, accompanied by the Craigavon Lakes in the distance.