Lakes around Carneyhough offer a variety of natural features and viewpoints for outdoor enthusiasts. The area features several loughs, some nestled between hills and others providing tranquil waterside strolls. These natural bodies of water contribute to the region's landscape, providing opportunities for exploration and scenic appreciation. Visitors can find easy walking routes around Carneyhough lakes, suitable for different activity levels.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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This peaceful pond located in the heart of the village of Bessbrook is an ideal place for a waterside stroll along its paths.
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Camlough Lake The often calm, tranquil waters of Cam Lough stretch for just over two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters for the fisherman and marks a break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion.
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The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is somewhat smaller than the South Cairn; it measures about 18 meters in diameter. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were found in the hill. Right next to it is the "Calliagh Beara's Lough" on top of the ridge.
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The most popular lakes appreciated by the komoot community include North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, known for its historical significance and sweeping views, and Camlough Lake, which offers a tranquil setting for cycling.
Yes, Camlough Lake is noted as family-friendly, offering a tranquil setting. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond provides a peaceful waterside stroll, ideal for families.
The area around Carneyhough's lakes offers diverse natural features. You can find mountain lakes, tranquil loughs, and peaceful ponds. Notable viewpoints include those from North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which provides sweeping views, and the scenic surroundings of Camlough Lake.
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. It features a mountain lake next to an ancient burial cairn, where two Bronze Age stone boxes were found during excavations.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, explore easy routes like the Bessbrook War Memorial loop around Bessbrook Pond. Cycling enthusiasts can find road cycling routes and mountain biking trails in the wider area. For more details on routes, visit the easy hikes guide, road cycling guide, or MTB trails guide for Carneyhough.
Yes, there are easy walking routes around Carneyhough lakes. For example, you can find a pleasant loop around Bessbrook Pond. For more hiking options, check out the easy hikes guide around Carneyhough.
Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Around Camlough Lake, you can enjoy cycling along the narrow roads on its shore, which offers a tranquil experience with views of the surrounding hills. For more extensive cycling routes, including road cycling and mountain biking, refer to the dedicated guides for the Carneyhough area.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the lakes, from the historical significance and sweeping views at North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough to the tranquil settings for cycling at Camlough Lake. The peaceful waterside strolls around places like Bessbrook Pond are also highly valued.
While the guide highlights popular spots, the region is known for its many loughs and peaceful ponds. Exploring the areas beyond the main highlights can often lead to discovering quieter spots for tranquil waterside strolls and scenic appreciation.
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer milder weather ideal for hiking and cycling, while autumn provides beautiful scenery. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Yes, the lakes around Carneyhough offer easy walking routes suitable for different activity levels. For instance, Bessbrook Pond has paths perfect for a peaceful waterside stroll. You can find more easy hiking options in the easy hikes guide.


Still not found your perfect lake around Carneyhough? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.