The best traffic-free bike rides in Cratloe Woods

Beautiful abbey, hardly any tourists.

Croom Town Park is a small but pleasant green space next to the River Maigue. It's the perfect spot for a short walk or run in the town of Croom.

Craggaunowen is more than just an open-air museum - it's a journey back in time. When you arrive here by bike, you'll be immediately embraced by the peaceful atmosphere of the woods. The path to the castle leads through green leafy tunnels that gently filter the sunlight. At the top of the castle you have a wonderful view of the surrounding area. The reconstructed huts in the fort give a sense of what life was like here once - simple, but closely connected to nature. It's worth exploring the castle and the grounds with its historical replicas at your leisure. The exhibitions are well done and give you an insight into the Celtic past. The stone walls and the surrounding woods have something mysterious about them - almost as if an old warrior could come around the corner at any moment. And after all that exploring? There's nothing better than relaxing with a cup of tea and a piece of cake in one of the small cafes. A relaxed place to let the impressions sink in and strengthen yourself for the next stage.

Quin Abbey is a fascinating destination that breathes history. You cycle through the green countryside of County Clare and suddenly the remains of the old priory church loom before you. Although the roof is long gone, the impressive structure gives a sense of past splendour. The intact cloister and preserved walls tell stories of a bygone era when Franciscan friars lived here. Built on the remains of a 13th century Norman castle, the abbey has a turbulent history. It was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1541, but some friars stayed here until the 17th century. The walls have the air of the past that makes this place special. Access to the abbey is free, but the key can be borrowed in the nearby village if you wish to enter the cloister. The detour is worth it, because just a few steps away are the ruins of St. Finghin's Church, which are also worth a visit. A historic place that offers a quiet atmosphere and at the same time inspires reflection. Quin Abbey is a highlight not only for history lovers, but also for cyclists who want to experience the beauty of the Irish hinterland away from the busy roads.

Craggaunowen is an open air museum and castle. You can walk to the top of the castle and take in the views, explore the forests, experience the inside of a hill fort and enjoy tea and cake at the end of your visit.

Quin Abbey (Irish: Mainistir Chuinche[1]), in Quin, County Clare, Ireland, was built between 1402 and 1433 by Sioda Cam MacNamara, for Fathers Purcell and Mooney, friars of the Franciscan order. Although mostly roofless, the structure of the abbey is relatively well preserved. There is an intact cloister, and many other surviving architectural features make the friary of significant historical value.[ Free to visit!

Mountcashel is an impressive sight looming over the road as you cycle beneath it. It gives a real indication of how large these structures are in comparison to modern dwellings. The castle is thought to have been built by Conor na Srone O'Brien who died in 1470, but not much else is known.

Craggaunowen Castle was built in 1550 by John MacSioda MacNamara, a descendant of Sioda MacNamara. The castle was left in ruins in the 17th century and fell into disrepair until being restored by John Hunt in the 1960s. Today the castle houses several artifacts from its era and is open to visitors in the summer. See website for more information: www.craggaunowen.ie/