Attractions and Places To See around Gortatole - Top 18
Best attractions and places to see around Gortatole are found within County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, a region known for its natural beauty and historical sites. The area is part of the Fermanagh Lakelands, offering diverse landscapes and a rich heritage. Visitors can explore ancient monuments, expansive forests, and significant natural features. Gortatole provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Gortatole
- The most popular attractions is Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, a…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave
Highlight • Historical Site
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Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
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Florence Court
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Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones
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Lower Lough MacNean
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Tips from the Community
Would not regard the Sligo Road from Enniskillen to Belcoo as a cycle friendly road. Extremely poor surface for considerable stretches, very bendy in places too. I live in Enniskillen; have cycled it but would avoid it if at all possible. Cycling via Five Points , on Swanlinbar Road; then via old rail line from old Letterbreen railway station towards Lough MacNean ; or take road from Five Points towards Gortatole is a far more pleasant and safer option.
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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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Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
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Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
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Many of Ireland’s megalithic monuments—portal tombs, court cairns, or wedge tombs such as this one—are known locally as “the giant’s grave.” But this one, on a hilltop in Co. Cavan’s Burren Forest Park, has a giant story to go along with its name. According to Harold Johnson, from the nearby town of Blacklion, the giant, attempting to impress a lady, failed in his final attempt to jump the nearby chasm, which is, of course, called “The Giant’s Leap.” Harold Johnson relates this story in some detail, while seated on the Giant’s Grave, in the video, below right. Mr. Johnson also was our guide, and provided the narration, for our feature on the Killinagh Cursing Stones, located on the opposite side of the town of Blacklion. (https://voicesfromthedawn.com/burren-giants-grave/)
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Lower Lough MacNean, also known as Lough Nilly, is one of two lakes that together form Lough MacNean. Around the circumference of the lake there is a 42 mile (67.6 km) sculpture trail that showcases the rich human history and diverse wildlife around the lake. Lough MacNean lies within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark which preserves the ancient landscapes. The reedbeds, fen peats, wet grasslands and wet woodland are home to diverse mammals, insects, and birds.
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Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a wonderful Georgian mansion surrounded by picturesque countryside. The first house was built by John Cole at the beginning of the 18th century and named after his wife, Florence. The Cole family lived in the house for over 250 years. Today, the estate is managed by the National Trust. There are over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore the grounds. You can visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that reveal the area's industrial heritage. There's also a beautiful Irish yew tree, Florence Court Yew, which is one of two original Irish Yew discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens and forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and archaeological sites can I explore around Gortatole?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave in the Burren Forest, which features megalithic tombs steeped in local legend. Another significant site is Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones, an incredible Stone-Age park with massive mythological sacred stones, offering a unique geological and archaeological experience.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Gortatole?
Yes, Florence Court is a great option for families. This magnificent 18th-century country estate, managed by the National Trust, offers over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore its grounds, along with a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge. The Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre also provides various adventure activities suitable for different ages.
What natural features and landscapes can I discover in the Gortatole area?
Gortatole is surrounded by diverse natural beauty. You can explore the Lower Lough MacNean, part of the Marble Arch Caves Geopark, known for its sculpture trail and diverse wildlife. The broader Fermanagh Lakelands offer numerous lakes for water activities. Additionally, the Burren Forest and Lough Navar Forest provide extensive woodlands and scenic views.
Where can I find easy walking or hiking routes near Gortatole?
For easy walks, consider routes like the 'Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River' (3.5 km) or the 'Florence Court – Florence Court loop from Drumlaghy' (5 km). The 'Tullygobban Tomb – Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave loop from Tuam Electoral Division' (4.5 km) also offers an easy way to explore historical sites. You can find more options on the Easy hikes around Gortatole guide page.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails or facilities near Gortatole?
The Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is noted as wheelchair accessible, serving as the starting point for the popular 'Stairway to Heaven' trek. While the full trek may not be accessible, the car park itself provides a good base. For specific trail accessibility, it's always recommended to check with the individual attraction or park management.
What are the best outdoor activities to do around Gortatole?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and gravel biking on various trails. Popular options include the 'Stairway to Heaven' trek at Cuilcagh Mountain Park, exploring the trails at Florence Court, or discovering the Marble Arch Caves. The Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and climbing.
Where can I park when visiting attractions near Gortatole?
A key parking facility is the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park, which is the ideal starting point for the 'Stairway to Heaven' hike. It has spaces for larger vehicles/motorhomes, and a steward directs parking. A cash parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros is required. Other attractions like Florence Court also have dedicated parking facilities, often with a small entrance fee to the grounds.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known natural reserves to visit?
Yes, the Correl Glen Nature Reserve is a beautiful, lesser-known spot featuring damp, shady woodland with diverse trees and heathland. It's home to various butterfly and dragonfly species and offers a nature trail with views of Carrick Lough. You can find more information about this reserve on the DAERA website.
What is the best time of year to visit Gortatole for outdoor activities?
While Gortatole can be enjoyed year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports on the loughs. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in areas like Florence Court and Lough Navar Forest, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Can I find running trails around Gortatole?
Absolutely! There are several running trails available, catering to different difficulty levels. Options include the 'Florence Court Red Trail' (8.5 km, moderate), 'Cuilcagh Mountain Park running loop' (21 km, difficult), and shorter loops from Drumlaghy (6.5 km, moderate) or Belcoo (4.4 km, easy). Explore more on the Running Trails around Gortatole guide page.
What kind of gravel biking routes are available in the Gortatole area?
Gortatole offers challenging gravel biking routes for experienced riders. Examples include the 'From Blacklion to Dowra loop' (38 km, difficult) and longer loops like 'Aghanaglack Prehistoric Tomb – View of Lough Nabrickboy' (over 50 km, difficult). A moderate option is the 'Aghanaglack Prehistoric Tomb loop from Aghanaglack' (12.5 km). Find detailed routes on the Gravel biking around Gortatole guide page.
Are there attractions open during the winter months in Gortatole?
Many natural attractions and outdoor areas remain accessible in winter, though some facilities or visitor centers might have reduced hours. Estates like Florence Court, managed by the National Trust, often have their grounds open year-round, though house tours may be seasonal. It's advisable to check specific opening times for each attraction before your visit.
Most popular attractions around Gortatole
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