The best walks and hikes around Ballydesland

A super stop off on the greenway. 4.2km from the start of the greenway in Carlingford. delicious food, cooffee, scones etc and free fruit flavoured water.

Clontygora Court Tomb is a truly special experience on the Ring of Gullion. While travelling along the quiet roads of County Armagh, I discovered this ancient megalithic tomb, also known as 'The King's Ring'. The imposing, upright stones of the U-shaped exedra are a striking sight and provide a fascinating insight into times long past. Although some parts have been damaged over the centuries, the tomb exudes a remarkable atmosphere - as if you are looking back in time. The site, nestled in the rolling hills at the foot of Slieve Gullion, makes the visit a worthwhile break for any cyclist. It is amazing how quiet it is here, with only the gentle breeze whistling through the stones. Those interested in prehistoric sites will also find the nearby monuments such as Ballymacdermot and Ballykeel fascinating. This area clearly has a rich history, which becomes apparent when you take a closer look at the megalithic chambers. I was particularly taken with the two massive portal stones that mark the entrance to the gallery - they seem like silent sentinels that have stood here for thousands of years. The view of the valley and the Newry River completes the experience. It is definitely worth a short detour, especially if you love nature and also have a bit of an interest in archaeology.

The "Ring of the King", the Clontygora Court Tomb, awaits you on a hill in Slieve Gullion, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Ring of Gullion. This megalithic site with its distinctive Y-shape and central tomb gallery immerses you in the early history of Northern Ireland. The stones, which rise over 2.7 metres into the air, form an impressive exedra that encloses the deep, U-shaped courtyard - it is more than just a collection of rocks, it is a silent witness to times gone by. As you step between the portal stones that mark the entrance to the three-part burial chamber, you can easily imagine how the early inhabitants performed their rituals here over 5000 years ago. Flint artefacts and ceramic finds tell of long-gone cultures that already cultivated this land. From here you have a view not only of history but also of the landscape - a place where you can look out over the green hills and valleys. Close by you will find other megalithic monuments such as the Ballymacdermot Court Tomb or the Ballykeel Dolmen, all of which help to complete the mosaic of the past.

From the Flagstaff Viewpoint you can enjoy a stunning view of the expansive landscape where the Newry River gently curves its way to Carlingford Lough. The view stretches down to the fjord where the land meets the water and the hills in the distance form a picturesque backdrop. The valley opens up between the lush green conifers and you can watch the landscape unfold below you. From up here, the roads and fields look like little veins and patches that tie the whole picture together. It is a place to linger and enjoy the silence - a haven of calm that makes you feel above it all.

The Carlingford Lough Greenway has a special atmosphere as you walk along this section of Newry. With the Newry Ship Canal to your left and the Newry River to your right, you're in the middle of two worlds. The calm waters of the canal reflect the sky, making the surroundings seem almost like a backdrop, while the riverbank on the other side is lush with greenery and wild flowers. The narrow path takes you past flowering gorse and you can smell the scent of the vegetation in the air. It's a route that has its charms in every season, whether it's clear skies or when grey clouds hang low and make the water seem almost mystical. The Greenway is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a leisurely bike ride, enjoying being close to nature - an ideal place to clear your head.

Stunning cathedral built from local granite

This building in Killeen dates back to 1875 and is one of the three churches in the parish of Upper Killeavy. It has a large churchyard. In this area, you'll find several quiet roads where you can run without any issues.

This court tomb is also known as 'The King's Ring.' It has a Y shape and features a burial gallery in the center. This area of The Ring of Gullion boasts 20 megalithic tombs, cairns, and burial chambers.