The best walks and hikes around Rabbit Island
4.6
(18)
176
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking around Rabbit Island offers routes through the woodlands and along the shores of Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. The area is characterized by lakeside paths, forested trails, and gentle terrain with minimal elevation change. The main walking trails are located within Castle Archdale Forest, providing access to historic ruins and shoreline viewpoints.
Best hiking trails around Rabbit Island
- The most popular hiking route is Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island, a 2.9 mile (4.6 km) trail that…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
4.61km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.28km
01:09
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
28
hikers
3.69km
00:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
2.01km
00:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
12.0km
03:10
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
0
0
During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
2
0
A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
2
0
Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
2
0
Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
2
0
Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
1
0
Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Rabbit Island difficult?
No, the area is known for its gentle terrain. Most of the 13 trails are rated as easy, featuring lakeside paths and forest tracks with minimal elevation change. This makes it an excellent destination for casual walkers and those looking for a relaxed day out in nature.
Is Rabbit Island a good place for a family walk?
Absolutely. The trails within Castle Archdale Forest are generally flat and well-maintained, making them very suitable for walkers of all ages. The routes are typically short, and the presence of historic ruins and lakeside scenery provides plenty of interest for children.
What is the terrain like on the walking trails?
You can expect to walk on a mix of well-defined woodland paths, forest tracks, and grassy trails along the shore of Lower Lough Erne. The ground is mostly flat and firm, though some sections can become muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Are there any waterfalls to see on the hikes?
Yes, you can visit a lovely waterfall on the Blackslee Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly. This easy 5.3 km walk follows woodland tracks to the Blackslee Waterfall, offering a rewarding sight within the forest.
Can I see any historic sites while hiking?
Yes, the area is rich in history. Several trails explore the grounds of Castle Archdale, which was a key RAF base during WWII. For a glimpse into older history, the Tully Castle Ruins loop from Derrygonnelly is a short walk that takes you to the remains of a 17th-century fortified house.
Are most of the walks circular?
Yes, many of the popular routes in the area are loop trails, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. This makes logistics simple, especially if you are arriving by car. The Castle Archdale loop is a perfect example of a scenic circular walk.
What kind of views can I expect on the trails?
The hiking trails offer beautiful views across the waters and islands of Lower Lough Erne. You'll find many scenic spots along the shoreline. For a walk that specifically leads to a viewpoint, consider the Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick, which takes you out to a beacon on the lough's edge.
How long does it take to walk the main trails?
Most of the hikes around Rabbit Island are relatively short. You can expect the majority of routes to take between one and two hours to complete, covering distances of 3 to 6 kilometers. This leaves plenty of time to enjoy the scenery or explore other nearby attractions.
What do other hikers think of the area?
The trails around Rabbit Island are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful lakeside atmosphere, the well-preserved historic sites, and the easy-to-follow paths through the forest.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, the main walking routes within Castle Archdale Forest have associated car parks. These are the most convenient starting points for exploring the network of trails around the lough shore and woodlands.
What should I pack for a hike around Rabbit Island?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and because of the lakeside location, it's wise to bring waterproofs even on a clear day. Also consider packing water, some snacks, and a camera to capture the beautiful views of Lower Lough Erne.
Most popular attractions around Rabbit Island
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
