The best walks and hikes around Gortatole
4.1
(28)
389
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking around Gortatole offers access to a diverse landscape featuring fields, lakes, and forests in the Irish countryside. The region is characterized by prominent natural features such as Cuilcagh Mountain and Lower Lough MacNean, which is part of the Marble Arch Caves Geopark. Geological and archaeological sites, including the Cavan Burren Park and ancient megalithic tombs, are also present. This varied terrain provides numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Gortatole
- The most popular hiking route is Cuilcagh…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
21.2km
06:17
610m
610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
35
hikers
6.08km
01:45
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17
hikers
3.47km
00:59
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
10.1km
02:54
250m
250m
Hike the moderate 6.3-mile Cavan Way through Cavan Burren Park, exploring ancient sites and enjoying views of Lough MacNean.
4.7
(3)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
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Great walk, very touristy but it's worth the detour! Be careful of the crowds (on weekends and in summer I dare not imagine!). However, BE CAREFUL, the summit is not accessible, you have to pass the protective barriers which allow the wild nature to be preserved from our steps and from this crowd of people. If we, the Komoot community, start to do this all the tourists will allow themselves and the landscape will never be so beautiful again! (Ps: no need to climb to the top to already see enough in the eyes!)
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Incredible Stone-Age park, with some technical trails. Massive mythological sacred stones worshipped over centuries, will follow you when adventuring into this unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
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"continual slur on Irish caving" It's actually only a few hundred metres is accessible and it's total length is thought to be 2km. No where near the longest cave in Ireland. Consider a trip in only if well equipped with a good light and helmet. Alternatively/also consider visiting McKenzies back lounge just down the road. A much drier watering hole. ;)
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Tullygobban Tomb is over 4000 years old and is aligned to face the sunset on the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice. Look south towards the cairn atop Cullcagh Mountain and you will see that the summit, this tomb, the Calf House Tomb and an erratic boulder all lie up.
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Stunning limestone caves which you can explore on a guided tour. Well worth a visit. There are 150 steps down to the caves so if you are wearing cleats please be aware, or change into a pair of trainers before you descend down into the natural wonder. There is also a cafe on site. For further details please see https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/
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Very long and strenuous hike if you want to go up the mountain. Warm clothing is a must. As soon as you leave the low vegetation, the wind gets really unpleasant and cold...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Gortatole?
There are over 15 hiking routes around Gortatole, offering a diverse range of experiences from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents. The komoot community has explored these trails over 390 times, rating them highly for their varied terrain.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Gortatole offers several easy trails. For a gentle riverside experience, consider the Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River, a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) path that takes about an hour. Another accessible option is the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave, an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) route.
What are some longer or more challenging hikes in the Gortatole area?
For a challenging and rewarding experience, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop is a difficult 13.2-mile (21.2 km) trail that takes over 6 hours to complete. This route ascends Cuilcagh Mountain, offering magnificent panoramic views from the summit. Be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions at higher elevations.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Gortatole?
Many of the easier trails are suitable for families. The Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River is an easy, short walk along the river, perfect for a family outing. Exploring the unique geological and archaeological forest landscape of Cavan Burren Park also offers an engaging experience for all ages.
What interesting natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking?
The region is rich in natural and historical sites. You can explore the ancient megalithic tombs known as the Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, or visit the Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones. The Cladagh Glen Waterfall and Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall are also notable natural attractions along some routes.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. The Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave is an easy circular trail. For a more demanding option, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop provides a long, circular mountain hike.
Where can I park when visiting hiking trails in Gortatole?
Parking is available at key access points for popular trails. For instance, you can find parking at the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park, which serves as a starting point for the Cuilcagh Mountain trails.
What is the best time of year to hike around Gortatole?
The region offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and summer provide lush green landscapes and milder weather, ideal for exploring lakes and forests. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. For higher elevations like Cuilcagh Mountain, be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions, especially outside of peak summer months.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Gortatole?
The trails around Gortatole are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.98 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, which includes mountainous terrain, expansive lakes like Lower Lough MacNean, and ancient forests, as well as the unique geological and archaeological sites.
Are there any historical sites or estates to visit near the hiking routes?
Absolutely. Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a magnificent 18th-century country estate surrounded by parkland and woodland, offering views of Benaughlin Mountain. The Tullygobban Tomb – Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave loop also takes you past ancient megalithic tombs with local legends.
Can I find trails that explore the unique geological formations of the area?
Yes, the region is known for its geology. The Cavan Way is a moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) path that navigates through the varied landscapes of the Cavan Burren, showcasing its unique geological formations and ancient mythological sacred stones.
Most popular attractions around Gortatole
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