Attractions and Places To See around Hare Island - Top 14

The area around Hare Island is rich in history. You can visit the unique Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, ancient pre-Christian stone figures on Boa Island. Explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle with a dramatic history of rebellion and destruction. Another significant site is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house attacked in 1641, which also has a visitor's center telling local stories.

Yes, you can discover the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, dating back to 2000 BC. This site is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies or astronomical observations. Additionally, the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are ancient pre-Christian stone figures with archaeological significance.

The Hare Island in Lower Lough Erne is designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). It's known for its species-rich wet grassland and significant populations of breeding waders like redshank, snipe, lapwing, and curlew. The broader region offers diverse landscapes, including forested areas and wetlands, providing a habitat for various wildlife.

There are numerous outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find easy trails like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or the 'Castle Archdale loop'. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop'. Mountain biking trails are also available, including the 'Drumskinny stone circle and Lough Bradan loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the easy hikes, cycling, and MTB guides for the area.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins offers an engaging historical experience with a visitor's center. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, with their WWII history, can also be interesting for all ages. Additionally, the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment provides an educational outing.

The spring and summer months are generally best for observing breeding waders and enjoying the species-rich wet grasslands for which Hare Island (Lower Lough Erne) is known. During these seasons, the natural habitats are most vibrant, offering better opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the local flora.

Yes, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are a key site for this. During WWII, Castle Archdale served as a major base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 people. Exhibitions are sometimes held in these courtyards to highlight the area's significant role during the war.

Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical context and the serene natural settings. The unique Janus Stones offer a glimpse into ancient times, while the dramatic ruins of Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins allow for immersive historical exploration. The combination of ancient monuments and castle ruins set within diverse landscapes makes for a captivating experience.

For those seeking more challenging outdoor activities, there are options available. Mountain bikers can tackle the 'Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop', which is classified as difficult. Cyclists can also find challenging routes like the 'Tully Castle Ruins – Lough Melvin loop from Heron Island'. More details can be found in the respective MTB and cycling guides.

The castles and ruins, such as Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins, are significant remnants of the 17th-century Plantation of Ulster. They tell stories of settlement, conflict, and rebellion, particularly during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and the Williamite Wars, offering a deep insight into the region's turbulent past.

While specific viewpoints are not detailed for every highlight, the historical castles like Old Castle Archdale are often situated on elevated positions, such as a 'forest clifftop', which would naturally offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape and Lough Erne. Exploring the trails around these sites often leads to picturesque vistas.