Best attractions and places to see around Rough Island include a variety of historical sites, natural viewpoints, and serene lakes situated around the expansive Lough Erne. This region offers opportunities to explore ancient ruins, discover unique stone carvings, and enjoy panoramic vistas over the water and surrounding landscapes. The area is characterized by its blend of cultural heritage and scenic natural beauty, making it a diverse destination for explorers. Visitors can find both man-made landmarks and tranquil natural settings.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Boa Island is the largest island on Lough Erne. The road cuts through its centre with views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More and Cruninish Islands.
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Built in the 17th century, Castle Caldwell was part of the Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settles throughout King James I era. The castle had a number of inhabitants after that and fell into ruin towards the 1800s. Although access to the castle is now forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding park and forest can be explored freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard.
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Covering an area of 9 acres (3.7 ha), Carrick Lough is a small lake compared to some of its impressive neighbours such as Lough Erne. Set amongst green countryside, the lake, although small, is still a lovely place to visit. With a thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach, the lake is popular with anglers. It's also home to diverse flora and fauna. The lakeshore makes for a wonderful picnic on a bike trip!
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Built in the 17th century by Francis Blennerhasett of Norfolk, Castle Caldwell was once part of Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settlers during the reign of King James I. The castle had various inhabitants over the centuries until it fell into ruin towards the end of the 1800s. Today, Castle Caldwell lies within Castle Caldwell Forest Park, a nature reserve on the banks of Lower Lough Erne. Although access to the castle is forbidden due to its ruinous state, you can visit the surrounding park for free. Look out for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard too.
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Breathtaking views of Lough Earne.
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The two pre-Christian, probably Iron Age stone figures, some 70cm high, stand amongst modern graves in the small, isolated Caldragh graveyard. Both were originally Janus-faced (face on front and back). The simpler figure is more heavily damaged. It is likely to be a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.
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The unique stone carvings are in the Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island.
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You can visit the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island, which are ancient, pre-Christian stone figures. Another significant historical site is the Castle Caldwell Ruins, a 17th-century castle. While access to the castle itself is restricted due to its condition, the surrounding park and forest, including a ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard, are open for exploration.
For breathtaking panoramic views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean and Blue Stack mountains, head to the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho. This viewpoint offers picnic benches and an information board. Additionally, the Boa Island Road offers scenic views of Lough Erne, including Lusty Beg, Lusty More, and Cruninish Islands.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho is family-friendly, offering stunning views and picnic spots. Carrick Lough is a small, serene lake perfect for a family picnic or a quiet visit. The Boa Island Road also provides pleasant views that can be enjoyed by all ages.
The area around Rough Island is rich in natural beauty, primarily centered around Lough Erne. You'll find serene lakes like Carrick Lough, which is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The Cliffs of Magho offer dramatic natural viewpoints overlooking the expansive Lough Erne and distant mountains.
There are several hiking opportunities near the attractions. You can find easy hikes such as the Rossergole Point Walk, Cliffs of Magho loop, and the View from the Cliffs of Magho loop from Drumcrow West. For more options and detailed routes, you can explore the Easy hikes around Rough Island guide or the broader Hiking around Rough Island guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the area. You can find routes like the Boa Island loop from Belleek or The Quarry loop from Derrygonnelly. For more detailed cycling routes and information, refer to the Cycling around Rough Island guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique historical significance of sites like the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery. The sensational panoramic views from the Cliffs of Magho over Lough Erne are also highly praised. Many enjoy the blend of cultural heritage and scenic natural beauty, making it a diverse destination for explorers.
Carrick Lough is an excellent choice. Although smaller than Lough Erne, it's a lovely place set amongst green countryside. It's popular with anglers due to its thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach, and its lakeshore makes for a wonderful picnic spot, especially during a bike trip.
While access to the Castle Caldwell Ruins itself is forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding Castle Caldwell Forest Park can be explored freely. Here, you can discover a ruined chapel and an overgrown graveyard, offering a glimpse into its past.
Boa Island is the largest island on Lough Erne. It is home to the ancient Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, which are unique pre-Christian stone figures. The Boa Island Road also offers scenic views of the surrounding smaller islands on Lough Erne.
Yes, the area offers several easy walking trails. Examples include the Rossergole Point Walk, the Cliffs of Magho loop, and the View from the Cliffs of Magho loop from Drumcrow West. These routes are generally considered easy and are great for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. More details can be found in the Easy hikes around Rough Island guide.


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