Attractions and Places To See around Gortaree - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Gortaree. Gortaree, a townland in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, is situated on the eastern foothills of Slieve Rushen mountain and features several mountain streams. The area offers a blend of local history, including mentions of the Gortaree Hedge School and Gorteen House, alongside natural beauty. While Gortaree itself is a small townland, the surrounding region provides a broader range of historical sites and natural attractions for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven)
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Cuilcagh Mountain Summit Cairn
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Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave
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Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
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Florence Court
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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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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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Cuilcagh Mountain sits right on the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. From the top, you can enjoy magnificent views across the rolling hills of Ireland in all directions.
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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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Strenuous but rewarding path on footbridges over the high moor. Pretty well known through insta, so sm best come first thing in the morning
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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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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 natural features can I explore around Gortaree?
Gortaree is situated on the eastern foothills of Slieve Rushen mountain, offering scenic views and mountain streams. Nearby, you can explore the impressive moorland and barren rocky landscapes of the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), which leads to the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit. The wider County Fermanagh area also features the vast Crom Estate on Upper Lough Erne, known for its ancient woodlands and diverse wildlife, as well as Annagh Lough and Annagh Woods for nature trails.
What historical sites can I visit near Gortaree?
Gortaree itself has historical mentions like the Gortaree Hedge School and Gorteen House. For more extensive historical exploration, visit Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave in the Burren Forest, which features ancient megalithic tombs. Another significant site is Florence Court, a magnificent 18th-century country estate with a rich history. The broader County Fermanagh region is home to numerous historic sites, including archaeological sites and monuments like Enniskillen Castle and Tully Castle. You can find more information on these at communities-ni.gov.uk.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Gortaree?
Yes, Florence Court is a family-friendly estate with lush parkland, woodlands, and trails suitable for all ages. The Crom Estate also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and exploring ancient woodlands, which can be enjoyable for families. Additionally, the Cavan Burren Park, with its megalithic tombs and nature trails, provides an engaging outdoor experience for families interested in history and nature.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Gortaree offers various outdoor activities. For running, you can explore routes like the Florence Court Red Trail or the Cuilcagh Mountain Park running loop. Cyclists can enjoy the Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop or longer routes around Lough Nabrickboy. There are also easy hikes available, such as the Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River or the Tullygobban Tomb loop. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Gortaree, Cycling around Gortaree, and Easy hikes around Gortaree.
Are there hiking trails near Gortaree?
Absolutely. The most prominent is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), an approximately 7.5-kilometer trail leading across moorland to the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit. While challenging, it offers rewarding views. For easier options, consider routes like the Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River or the Tullygobban Tomb loop. You can find more hiking options in the Easy hikes around Gortaree guide.
When is the best time to visit Gortaree and its attractions?
The best time to visit Gortaree and its surrounding attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, ideal for hiking the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail and exploring outdoor sites like Florence Court. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be cold but offers a different, often quieter, experience for those prepared for the weather.
Where can I find parking for attractions near Gortaree?
For those visiting the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is an ideal starting point. Please note there is a parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros, payable in cash to the steward. For other attractions like Florence Court, dedicated parking facilities are available on-site.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions?
The Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is noted as wheelchair accessible. While the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail itself involves continuous ascent and descent, the initial sections may be accessible, but the full trail to the summit is challenging. For specific accessibility details at other sites like Florence Court, it's advisable to check their official websites directly.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gortaree?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the rewarding experiences offered by the trails. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is particularly loved for its excellently laid-out boardwalk through a wonderful moor landscape and the breathtaking views from the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit. The historical depth of sites like Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave and the grandeur of Florence Court also receive high acclaim for their unique charm and educational value.
Are there cafes or facilities near the main attractions?
While Gortaree itself is a small townland, facilities are available near the main attractions. For instance, Florence Court, managed by the National Trust, typically offers visitor facilities including a cafe. For the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, it's recommended to bring your own refreshments, though nearby towns like Blacklion or Belcoo will have options for food and drink.
Can I find any unique or hidden gems in the Gortaree area?
Beyond the well-known attractions, the region offers unique discoveries. The Crom Estate, with its Old Crom Castle and boathouse on Lough Erne, provides a tranquil escape and a chance to spot rare wildlife. The Shannon–Erne Waterway at Ballyconnell Lock 2 offers a glimpse into the area's waterways and narrowboat traffic. Exploring the Cavan Burren Park can also reveal lesser-known megalithic structures and ancient rock art.
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