Top 4 Lakes around Straletterdallan

Several lakes in the region are great for families. Moor Lough offers beaches and a segregated paddleboarding area, perfect for a relaxed outing. Oak Lough has car parking and a picnic area, ideal for a tranquil walk. Gortin Lakes also provide facilities like parking, picnic tables, and toilets, with easy, undulating paths suitable for all ages.

Yes, many lakes offer excellent walking paths. Oak Lough features beautiful paths through heathland and wildflowers. New Lough has a picturesque footpath with scenes of still waters. Gortin Lakes boast an upgraded gravel path forming a figure-eight, offering superb views of the Sperrins landscape.

The area around Straletterdallan's lakes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, including those in Gortin Glen Forest Park. There are also cycling routes available, such as the Sperrins Route 3 - Struel Valley Cycle Route. For more details on routes, you can explore the hiking guide or the cycling guide for Straletterdallan.

Moor Lough is well-stocked with trout, making it a popular spot for fishermen. Ballysaggart Lough is also a favorite among anglers seeking a peaceful environment. Lough Neagh is renowned for its eels, Dollaghan trout, and Pollan.

While the immediate lakes around Straletterdallan are primarily natural, the wider region offers historical interest. Lough Neagh is steeped in Irish myth, said to be formed by the giant Finn McCool. Lower Lough Erne, though further afield, features boat trips to White Island, home to 12th-century monastery ruins and ancient stone figures.

Moor Lough previously had public toilets, but these are no longer available. However, it does have beaches and a paddleboarding area. Oak Lough provides car parking and a picnic area. Gortin Lakes are well-equipped with parking, picnic tables, and toilets.

Many outdoor areas in the Sperrins, including lake trails, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock or wildlife, and to check specific signage at each location for any restrictions.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for visiting the lakes, offering warmer weather and blooming wildflowers, particularly around places like Oak Lough. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a serene, quiet experience, though facilities and accessibility might be more limited.

Ballysaggart Lough is known for its peaceful environment and serene atmosphere, making it a great destination for those seeking quiet relaxation away from larger crowds. New Lough also offers a tranquil setting with its picturesque footpath.

For easy walks, the Gortin Lakes Trail offers a short, off-road walk with gentle undulations. Additionally, the Easy Hikes around Straletterdallan guide features routes like the Gortin Glen Lakes loop, which is specifically rated as easy.

The lakes are set within the stunning Sperrins Area of Natural Beauty. You'll find rolling hills, heathland, and wildflowers, especially around Oak Lough. Moor Lough offers great views from its gravel track, and Gortin Lakes provide superb views of the wider Sperrins landscape.

While some lakes like Moor Lough have beaches and a segregated paddleboarding area, specific regulations for wild swimming can vary. It's always advisable to check local signage and guidelines for safety and legality before entering the water for swimming.