The best road cycling routes around Drumbee Beg

This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.

quick service with plenty of space

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 Newry Canal Path offers exactly what many cyclists want on a tour: a relaxed route that runs through green landscapes and is shielded from any city traffic for almost 25 km. The path is smooth and well maintained throughout, which makes it ideal for longer stretches without a break - you can really rack up the miles here and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at the same time. A highlight is that the canal path is not only easy to ride, but also allows some charming glimpses of the surrounding area. The trees form a green roof over the path in places, and the silence is only occasionally interrupted by the rippling of the water or a passing bird. Here you have the feeling that with every meter you get further away from the noise of the city and instead find a little more nature. A good alternative for commuters and recreational cyclists alike to get to your destination stress-free or just switch off and let yourself drift.

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.

In the middle of the quiet residential area of Annagh Meadows, just a stone's throw from Tandragee Road, the Annagh Pillbox suddenly appears - a relic from the dark days of the Second World War. Its massive concrete walls and narrow loopholes tell of a time when defence along the River Bann was a top priority here. Today it seems a little out of place, surrounded by manicured gardens and modern houses, but that is precisely what gives it a special aura. The interpretive panel next to the bunker is worth a look - it brings you a little closer to the events of that time and reminds you how close the war was here too. The pillbox itself is in remarkably good condition, which is probably thanks to the care taken by the local council. It is worth a short detour to explore this historic corner and pause for a moment. You might wonder what it must have been like back then, when the view from here still extended unobstructed to the river, where you once had to keep an eye on the course of the Bann Line.

Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is one of those places that literally breathes history. As a cyclist, you can feel a breath of the past here as you roll gently over the grassy hills. The site, rich in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age finds, is not only archaeologically fascinating, but also firmly embedded in Irish mythology. The kings of Ulster are said to have ruled here, and the legends of Macha, the namesake, are omnipresent. The gentle climbs around the fort are not too demanding, but give you space to let your gaze wander over the green hills - particularly dramatic when dark clouds pile up in the sky and cast a mystical atmosphere over the landscape. A detour to the visitor center is worthwhile: Here you can find out more about the exciting stories and the excavations that provide insight into Ireland's deepest past.