Top 6 Lakes around Drumalane

The lakes around Drumalane, primarily located in County Down and County Armagh, offer diverse natural landscapes. You'll find picturesque loughs nestled between rolling hills, tranquil waters, and significant reservoirs. For example, Camlough Lake is set amidst the hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, while Silent Valley Reservoir is renowned for its peaceful environment within the Mourne Mountains.

Yes, the region boasts unique and historically significant sites. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a summit featuring Bronze Age stone boxes, with the mystical Calliagh Beara's Lough right next to it. Additionally, Calliagh Beara Lough is notable as the highest lake in Northern Ireland, situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion.

Many lakes in the area provide stunning views. Silent Valley Reservoir in the Mourne Mountains is famous for its impressive scenery, including views of the Mourne Wall. Camlough Lake offers tranquil waters that reflect the surrounding hills, creating beautiful vistas. For a broader perspective, the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road provides picturesque coastal scenery with towering hills and calm waters.

The lakes offer a range of outdoor activities. Fishing is very popular at spots like Camlough Lake, Corbet Lough, and Loughbrickland Lake. Cycling is enjoyable along the shores of Camlough Lake, and Silent Valley Reservoir has well-maintained trails for walking. For more structured activities, you can explore various hiking and mountain biking routes in the wider Drumalane area.

Yes, the region is excellent for fishing. Camlough Lake is well-stocked with pike, bream, roach, and perch. Corbet Lough is a premier trout fishery specializing in spinning and fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout, with facilities for disabled anglers. Loughbrickland Lake is regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout. Lough Neagh, though further afield, is also an ideal fishing spot. For more information on angling, you can visit visitmournegullionstrangford.com or visitarmagh.com.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. Silent Valley Reservoir features well-maintained trails, and Bessbrook Pond offers a peaceful waterside stroll. For more extensive hiking, you can find various routes, including easy hikes like the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' or moderate trails such as the 'Eisler Park loop from Newry'. You can explore these and other options in the Easy hikes around Drumalane and Hiking around Drumalane guides.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity around some of the lakes. Camlough Lake is particularly noted for its tranquil shores, offering a peaceful experience for cyclists along its narrow roads. While specific cycling routes around other lakes might vary, the general area provides opportunities for scenic rides.

Absolutely. Several lakes are great for families. Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful environment for walks or cycling. Bessbrook Pond provides an ideal spot for a waterside stroll with paths suitable for all ages. Silent Valley Reservoir also has well-maintained trails that are accessible for families.

Yes, some lakes offer improved accessibility. Corbet Lough provides facilities such as a wheel-boat accessible for disabled anglers. Loughbrickland Lake features a surfaced path along its west shore, offering easy access for visitors. Silent Valley Reservoir also has well-maintained trails, which can be suitable for some mobility aids, though specific accessibility should be checked beforehand.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic views, with longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in areas like the Mourne Mountains around Silent Valley. While winter can be colder, the tranquil atmosphere and crisp air can be appealing for those seeking solitude. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.

Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. The peaceful waters of places like Camlough Lake and Silent Valley Reservoir offer a serene escape. The historical significance of sites like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough adds a touch of mysticism. Many also enjoy the excellent fishing opportunities and the well-maintained trails for walking and cycling.

Yes, the wider area around Drumalane offers mountain biking trails. While not directly on the shores of every lake, you can find challenging routes such as the 'Newry, Carnavaddy and Annaloughan Mountain loop' or moderate trails like the 'Carlingford – The Tholsel, Carlingford loop from Newry'. These and other routes are detailed in the MTB Trails around Drumalane guide.