The best road cycling routes around Ballyknock

Along the picturesque route near the River Bann, you'll find the Moyallan Pillbox. Built around 1940 as part of Britain's coastal and inland defences, this compact bunker served as an observation post and machine gun nest. Strategically positioned to guard the river crossing and nearby roads, this robust structure is a reminder of a time when this peaceful landscape was on high alert. For the passing cyclist, it's an intriguing stop; its moss-green walls blend almost seamlessly with the surrounding nature, revealing the bunker's secrets only at the last moment. A raw piece of military heritage that sharply contrasts with the tranquility of the present-day countryside.

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

A great little cafe set in the bike shop, with great coffee and a nice variety of sweet goodies.

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.

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.

The Moyallan Pillbox is an intriguing WWII relic that is an unexpected discovery along the River Bann. The old concrete structure, well camouflaged and reclaimed by nature, stands modestly on a hill overlooking the river. The views from here are particularly rewarding on a clear day when the Bann flows lazily across the landscape. It's hard to imagine that this tranquil scene was once strategically important in protecting access to the north from possible invasions. The Pillbox stands just opposite a petrol station, near the roundabout where several roads meet. The location may seem unspectacular, but with a little imagination you can glimpse the history. The concrete block quietly tells of times gone by as you pedal on, leaving the river behind. A quick stop is well worth it - not for the drama, but for the unassuming way in which history finds its place here.