Top 13 Lakes around Aghamore

The lakes in the Aghamore region offer diverse natural features. For instance, Lough Carra is a unique shallow marl lake known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and calcareous encrustations, supporting over 400 plant species. Termoncarragh Lake is a shallow, freshwater coastal lagoon set within a rare machair ecosystem, rich in wildflowers and birds. You can also find picturesque scenery around Lough Conn and Lough Cullin, which are surrounded by the Nephin and Ox mountains.

Yes, there are several walking and hiking opportunities. For example, the area around Moore Hall on the eastern shore of Lough Carra offers pleasant walking areas. You can also find a Gravel Path by the Lake, which provides wonderful rolling gravel riding through dense woodland and open spaces. For more structured routes, explore the easy hikes around Aghamore, including loops around the Cliffs of Magho.

The region is home to several historical sites. On the shores of Urlaur Lake, you can visit Urlaur Abbey, a remarkably well-preserved monastic settlement founded in 1430. The ruins of Errew Abbey are located near Lough Conn, and Moore Hall, a former 'big house,' lies on the eastern shore of Lough Carra.

Many lakes offer family-friendly activities. Castle Archdale Marina on Lough Erne provides various water activities such as hydrobikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and boat rentals. The area around Lough Cullin features small, sheltered beaches, with a popular one at Drummin Wood. Additionally, many viewpoints like View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho are considered family-friendly.

The lakes around Aghamore are renowned for fishing. Lough Conn and Lough Cullin are famous for brown trout and salmon, with the River Moy being a prime salmon river. Lough Carra is a significant brown trout fishery, especially during the mayfly season. Lough Mask is highly popular for its trout fishing and hosts the World Cup Trout Fly Fishing Championship annually. Even smaller lakes like Carrick Lough are popular with anglers for pike, perch, bream, and roach.

Yes, water sports are available. The Petersburg Outdoor Education Center uses Lough Mask for various activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. As mentioned, Castle Archdale Marina offers hydrobikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and boat rentals on Lough Erne.

The best time to visit depends on your interests. The warmer months are ideal for water activities and leisurely walks. Anglers might prefer specific seasons, such as the mayfly season for trout fishing on Lough Carra. Bird-watching is excellent during winter at Termoncarragh Lake, which serves as a wintering ground for waterfowl.

Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning panoramic views, such as those from the Cliffs of Magho overlooking Lough Erne. The tranquil surroundings, opportunities for bird-watching, and the serene views from spots like Rossmore Point Beacon are also highly appreciated. Many also value the diverse outdoor activities and the rich natural beauty of the area.

Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find various routes, including moderate and easy loops, near the lakes. For more details and specific routes, check out the Running Trails around Aghamore guide.

Absolutely. The region offers a range of cycling routes, from moderate to difficult, that allow you to explore the lake areas. You can find detailed routes, such as the Carrick Lough – Roogagh Waterfall loop or the Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop, in the Cycling around Aghamore guide.

Yes, Termoncarragh Lake is a designated Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation, particularly important as a wintering ground for waterfowl like Whooper Swans and Barnacle Geese. It's an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially from the graveyard to the west of the lake. The tranquil surroundings of Lough Conn and Lough Cullin are also ideal for bird-watching.

While not a 'hidden gem' in the sense of being unknown, Urlaur Lake offers a unique experience with its hard water marl lake features and the remarkably well-preserved Urlaur Abbey on its shores. It provides an important local angling amenity and a popular spot for swimming in summer, with sand placed on the shore by local volunteers.