Top 5 Lakes around Derry More
Best lakes around Derry More are situated in a region characterized by its rolling hills and historical significance, offering a blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage. The area features diverse landscapes, from tranquil loughs nestled between hills to sites with archaeological importance. It provides opportunities for exploring natural monuments and enjoying serene waterscapes. This region is known for its connection to local folklore and its quiet, reflective environments.
Best lakes around Derry More
- The most popular lakes is North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, a summit and lake area that features a Bronze Age cairn and a mountain lake. This site is notable for its historical artifacts and the reflective waters of Calliagh Beara's Lough.
- Another must-see spot is Camlough Lake, a natural lake nestled between the hills of Slieve Gullion. Visitors can expect tranquil waters stretching for over 2 kilometers, offering a peaceful setting for observation and relaxation.
- Visitors also love Calliagh Beara Lough, an intermediate lake and natural monument. This lough is the highest in Northern Ireland, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion.
- Derry More is known for its mountain lakes, natural loughs, and historical sites adjacent to water bodies. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with ancient cairns to those ideal for quiet contemplation.
- The lakes around Derry More are appreciated by the komoot community, with 15 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Camlough Lake
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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Bessbrook Pond
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Derry More for visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, known for its Bronze Age cairn and the highest lough in Northern Ireland. Another favorite is Camlough Lake, which offers tranquil waters and a peaceful setting for relaxation.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Derry More region?
Yes, Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a calm environment. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond provides a peaceful setting for waterside strolls, suitable for families.
What historical or cultural sites can be found near the lakes?
Near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, you can explore a Bronze Age cairn, offering a glimpse into ancient history. The region as a whole is rich in local folklore and heritage, with tales of sunken kingdoms associated with larger lakes like Lough Neagh.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Derry More?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Camlough Mountain & Lake loop' near Camlough Lake, or easier walks like the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond'. For cycling, there are routes like the 'Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for hiking, touring cycling, and road cycling around Derry More.
Are there opportunities for fishing in the Derry More area?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Camlough Lake is known for its rich waters for fishermen. Further afield, Duncrun Fishing Lakes near Limavady offer excellent fly-fishing and bait fishing for Rainbow Trout, while Lough Eske in County Donegal is also popular for fishing.
Which lakes offer the best scenic views or viewpoints?
Many lakes provide stunning views. The area around North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough offers sweeping views from the ridge of Slieve Gullion. Duncrun Fishing Lakes provide spectacular views of Inishowen and Scotland, and Lough Salt in County Donegal boasts panoramic views of the North Donegal coast from its northern carpark.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The region's lakes offer diverse natural features. Calliagh Beara Lough is notable as the highest lough in Northern Ireland. Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland, supports a diverse habitat with numerous rare species of plants, insects, waterfowl, and fish. Lough Salt is a remarkable spring-fed lough, over 240 feet deep, situated in the crater of an extinct volcano.
Can I find lakes suitable for cycling in the area?
Yes, cycling is possible around several lakes. Lough Neagh features cycling paths offering varied landscapes and scenic viewpoints. In County Donegal, Lough Veagh within Glenveagh National Park has a gravel path along the lakeside suitable for traffic-free cycling between the castle and visitor's centre.
What is Lough Neagh known for?
Lough Neagh is renowned as the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland, covering almost 396 square kilometers. It's a significant natural attraction with a diverse habitat supporting numerous rare species. The lake is also rich in myths and legends, including tales of sunken kingdoms, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Are there any lakes in the region with unique geological characteristics?
Yes, Lough Salt in County Donegal is particularly unique. It is a spring-fed lough over 240 feet deep, and its bed is the crater of an extinct volcano. It is also the deepest and highest spring water lough in County Donegal, situated 840 feet above sea level.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Derry More?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. Many enjoy the peaceful settings for observation and relaxation, the opportunities for waterside strolls, and the sweeping views from locations like the ridge of Slieve Gullion. The blend of natural landscapes with historical elements, such as Bronze Age cairns, also adds to the appeal.
Are there any lakes near Derry More that are part of a national park?
While not directly in Derry More, Lough Veagh is located within Glenveagh National Park in nearby County Donegal. This offers stunning scenery and opportunities for walking and cycling along the lakeside, with picturesque views of Glenveagh Castle.
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