Lakes around Dorsy (Macdonald) are characterized by their serene waters nestled within a landscape shaped by ancient geological processes and rich in historical significance. This region features a variety of loughs, often found amidst rolling hills and offering views of surrounding peaks. Many of these bodies of water are associated with historical sites, such as Bronze Age cairns, adding a cultural dimension to the natural scenery. The area provides opportunities for tranquil waterside strolls and exploration of natural habitats.
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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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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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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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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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 lakes in Dorsy (Macdonald) are known for their serene waters and geological significance. You can find features like the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which is a mountain lake next to a Bronze Age cairn, offering sweeping views. Calliagh Beara Lough is notable as the highest lough in Northern Ireland, nestled between ancient burial cairns. The region also features tranquil loughs and peaceful ponds, many set amidst rolling hills.
Yes, the region is rich in history. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough includes a Bronze Age cairn where ancient stone boxes were found. Near Glasdrumman Lough, you can find an information panel about the Poets Trail, which explains the history of O'Neill Castle, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
Several lakes are great for families. Camlough Lake is listed as family-friendly and offers a peaceful setting for walks. Glasdrumman Lough also provides a calm body of water for family strolls. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is an ideal spot for a waterside stroll along its paths, perfect for families.
The area around Dorsy (Macdonald) offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling with routes like the 'Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours' or 'Killevy Churches Ruins loop from Camlough Lake'. For hiking, there are easy trails such as the 'Slieve Gullion Summit loop' or the 'Bessbrook War Memorial – Derrymore House Park loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Dorsy (Macdonald), Easy hikes around Dorsy (Macdonald), and Cycling around Dorsy (Macdonald) guides.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The 'Slieve Gullion Summit loop' is an easy 2.7 km hike, and the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop' is an easy 4.8 km trail. You can also explore the 'Ballymoyer Woodland loop' or the 'Bessbrook War Memorial – Derrymore House Park loop'. For more easy hiking routes, refer to the Easy hikes around Dorsy (Macdonald) guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the scenic beauty. The calm waters of lakes like Camlough Lake, nestled between rolling hills, offer a peaceful escape. The mystical feel and sweeping views from locations like the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough are also highly appreciated, combining natural beauty with historical intrigue.
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes. You can cycle along the shores of Camlough Lake, which has a dedicated loop from Camlough. Other options include the 'Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours' for road cycling. More details on cycling routes can be found in the Cycling around Dorsy (Macdonald) guide.
While not explicitly 'hidden,' Calliagh Beara Lough, being the highest lough in Northern Ireland and situated between ancient burial cairns, offers a unique and somewhat mystical experience that feels like a discovery. Its remote location on Slieve Gullion adds to its allure as a special spot.
The highest lough in Northern Ireland is Calliagh Beara Lough. It is uniquely situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, offering a distinctive high-altitude lake experience.
Camlough Lake is known for stretching for more than two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters and marks a significant break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, making it a prominent natural feature.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond offers exactly that. Located in the heart of Bessbrook village, it's a peaceful spot with paths ideal for a relaxing waterside stroll, perfect for those looking for tranquility within a community setting.


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