Best lakes around Ballymacdermot are found within a region known for its ancient Neolithic burial site, the Ballymacdermot Court Tomb, and scenic views of Slieve Gullion and the Mourne Mountains. The area offers a variety of natural features around Ballymacdermot lakes, situated within the broader Newry, Mourne and Down district. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from tranquil loughs nestled in the Ring of Gullion to mountain lakes. This setting provides a rich environment for outdoor activities and appreciating the natural…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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There is something magical about the landscape - on the left the towering hills reaching up into the sky, on the right the calm water shimmering in the light. The road winds along the coast, picturesque and with a touch of wildness that is so rarely found. The air smells fresh and slightly salty, and the constant wind from the water gives the route a refreshing note.
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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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Beautiful road leading in or out of Warrenpoint. Good road surface and great views on all sides.
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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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Among the most popular lakes are North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which combines a summit and a Bronze Age historical site with a quiet mountain lake. Camlough Lake is also highly regarded for its scenic beauty within the Ring of Gullion, and Bessbrook Pond offers a peaceful waterside stroll in Bessbrook village.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond is an ideal spot for a family-friendly waterside stroll. Camlough Lake also offers a peaceful setting for cycling along its shores, suitable for families.
The region offers diverse natural features. You can find tranquil loughs nestled in the Ring of Gullion, such as Camlough Lake, which is surrounded by rolling hills. Mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara's Lough on Slieve Gullion offer reflective waters and sweeping views. The Silent Valley Reservoir in the Mourne Mountains provides a peaceful retreat amidst granite peaks and heathered slopes.
Yes, the area is rich in history. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age historical site with ancient stone boxes. The broader Ballymacdermot area is known for the Neolithic Ballymacdermot Court Tomb. The Silent Valley Reservoir also features the impressive Victorian-style dam and the historic Mourne Wall.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For running, explore trails like the 'Clontygora Court Tomb loop' or 'Newry River loop'. Cyclists can find routes such as 'Warrenpoint, Rostrevor and Mayobridge loop'. There are also easy hikes like the 'Giant's Lair Trail' or a loop around Bessbrook Pond. You can find more details on these activities in the running, road cycling, and easy hiking guides for the Ballymacdermot area.
Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Calliagh Beara's Lough is also located on Slieve Gullion, within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Yes, Calliagh Beara's Lough, located right next to the North Cairn on Slieve Gullion, is steeped in local legend. It is believed to be the home of the witch Beara, adding a mystical touch to its natural beauty.
The Silent Valley Reservoir, located in the Mourne Mountains, is known for its beauty and tranquility. It offers well-kept paths for strolling, impressive views of the Victorian-style dam and the Mourne Wall, and a peaceful atmosphere amidst sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes.
Absolutely. From North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, you get sweeping views that include Calliagh Beara's Lough. There are also great views of Carlingford Lough from the Rostrevor Road, offering a picturesque coastal perspective.
Kiltybane Lake is one of the closest named lakes to Ballymacdermot, located approximately 1.9 miles away. While specific recreational details are not widely available, its proximity suggests it offers a tranquil natural setting for local visitors seeking a quiet spot.
Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the peaceful waters of Camlough Lake nestled in the Ring of Gullion to the historical significance and sweeping views from North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. The tranquility and natural beauty, combined with opportunities for walking and cycling, are frequently highlighted.


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