Attractions and Places To See around Broughan - Top 11

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.

The Gosford Forest Park near Markethill offers an impressive mix of dense forests, open parks and hidden paths on around 240 hectares. As soon as you enter the park, you can feel the special atmosphere, which is enhanced by the mighty Gosford Castle - a building that appears between the trees and is reminiscent of times gone by. The paths are varied and lead you through a wide variety of landscapes. Sometimes you cycle on narrow forest paths lined with tall trees, sometimes you cross open meadows where sheep roam. On sunny days, the light falls through the leaves and bathes everything in a pleasant play of shadow and light. There are both easy family routes and challenging mountain bike routes, so there is something for everyone. The signposting remains a small challenge, however - it is easy to get lost. But discovering new corners also has its charm, and in the end every detour is worth it. There are several benches scattered around the park for breaks, and every now and then you'll come across a food truck offering welcome refreshments.

The dam is easy to cross and from there you have a great view over the lake and the rolling hills that surround it. The peaceful atmosphere is only occasionally interrupted by the gentle rippling of the water. The reservoir provides fresh drinking water to the surrounding area and the trout fishery here is controlled by the Armagh Angling Club - so it's an interesting spot for anglers. Even if you're not here to fish, the scenery is simply relaxing and it's worth stopping for a few minutes and looking around. The roads around the lake are easy to drive on but there might be a few potholes in places - nothing that would stop a real cyclist. Overall a nice stop to enjoy nature and take a quick breather before moving on.

The Tassagh Viaduct rises above the Callan River Valley with its massive arches - a silent witness to bygone railway times. The line, which was originally part of the Castleblayney, Keady and Armagh Railway, opened in 1910 and once carried trains across the valley. Today the tracks have disappeared, but the impressive structure remains and blends beautifully into the green landscape. As I drove under the arches, I felt like I was experiencing a piece of history up close. Looking up at the imposing stone arches makes you pause for a moment and marvel. The old Beetling Mill is also nearby, a reminder of the region's industrial past. If you have a bit of time, a little detour there is worth it. The roads in the area are mostly in good condition, but there are also a few bumpy spots - nothing that will bother an experienced cyclist. Overall, a worthwhile stop that will appeal to more than just railway enthusiasts.

Gosford Forest Park with XC MTB Trails, hiking gravel paths, a Deer Park, an ancient Castle, Woodlands, Ponds, Streams, Caravan/Camping Park, water taps and catering trucks

A spacious deer enclosure in which an impressive herd of red deer moves freely and majestically. With graceful movements and calm looks, the deer roam the open grassland that spreads out before them. What makes this experience even more impressive, however, is the background against which the scenes take place: a dense backdrop of mighty oak trees that seem to tell stories from times long past, and the dark green tips of the Norway spruces stretching towards the sky. The contrast of the bright grass where the deer graze with the rich, deep color of the forest creates an atmospheric panorama that remains in the memory.

Navan Fort is an important part of Irish mythology. It is said to be a pre-Christian royal site and is sometimes known as Navan Rath. It is full of legend and archeology. There is a visitor centre at the fort with guided tours available. For further information see the website https://visitarmagh.com/places-to-explore/navan-centre-fort/

Gosford Forest Park features a deer enclosure home to a beautiful herd of Red Deer. The deer can be seen grazing on an open grassland against a backdrop of stunning oak and Norway spruce plantation.