Top 6 Lakes around Drumalane
Best lakes around Drumalane, a townland in Northern Ireland within County Armagh and County Down, offers diverse natural beauty. Located in the broader Newry area, its vicinity features several noteworthy lakes and reservoirs. These water bodies provide various recreational opportunities and natural landscapes. The region is characterized by its rolling hills and historical significance.
Best lakes around Drumalane
- The most popular lakes is North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, a summit that features a Bronze Age…
Last updated: August 9, 2026
North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Camlough Lake
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road
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Bessbrook Pond
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There is something magical about the landscape - on the left the towering hills reaching up into the sky, on the right the calm water shimmering in the light. The road winds along the coast, picturesque and with a touch of wildness that is so rarely found. The air smells fresh and slightly salty, and the constant wind from the water gives the route a refreshing note.
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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This peaceful pond located in the heart of the village of Bessbrook is an ideal place for a waterside stroll along its paths.
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Beautiful road leading in or out of Warrenpoint. Good road surface and great views on all sides.
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Camlough Lake The often calm, tranquil waters of Cam Lough stretch for just over two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters for the fisherman and marks a break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion.
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The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is somewhat smaller than the South Cairn; it measures about 18 meters in diameter. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were found in the hill. Right next to it is the "Calliagh Beara's Lough" on top of the ridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around the lakes near Drumalane?
The lakes near Drumalane offer a variety of natural beauty. You can find serene mountain lakes like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, nestled on ridges with reflective waters. Other areas feature picturesque freshwater lakes bordered by lush woodlands and sweeping countryside, such as Camlough Lake, set at the foot of the Ring of Gullion. The region also includes impressive reservoirs like Silent Valley, surrounded by the wild landscapes of the Mourne Mountains.
Are there family-friendly lakes for visitors with children near Drumalane?
Yes, several lakes near Drumalane are suitable for families. Camlough Lake is a great option, offering picnic spots, lakeside seating, and children's play equipment. View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road provides scenic vistas that can be enjoyed by all ages, and Bessbrook Pond is a peaceful spot for a waterside stroll.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes in this area?
The region around Drumalane is rich in history. For instance, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is adjacent to an ancient Bronze Age site, the North Cairn, where two stone boxes were discovered. The lake itself is steeped in local folklore, believed to be the home of the witch Beara. Silent Valley Reservoir, though not a natural lake, is a significant historical engineering feat, built between 1923 and 1933, and enclosed by the impressive Mourne Wall.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Drumalane?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Camlough Lake is popular for water sports like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and open-water activities, as well as fishing. For walking and hiking, there are numerous trails. You can find easy hikes around Drumalane, including routes like the Fathom Wood loop or the Bessbrook War Memorial loop, by exploring the Easy hikes around Drumalane guide. More challenging options are available in the Hiking around Drumalane guide.
Are there specific walking trails around Camlough Lake?
Yes, Camlough Lake offers lakeside walking trails that provide peaceful routes for leisurely strolls, invigorating hikes, or scenic jogs. The roads around the lake are also suitable for relaxed cycling. While specific trail lengths vary, the lake itself stretches for over two kilometers, offering ample opportunity for exploration.
Can I find walking trails near Silent Valley Reservoir?
Absolutely. Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, provides several walking trails. These include the Silent Valley Ben Crom Dam Walk, a Heritage Trail, and a more challenging Silent Valley Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the reservoir and the abandoned village built for construction workers. The area is known for its well-maintained paths and serene atmosphere.
What makes Calliagh Beara's Lough unique?
Calliagh Beara's Lough, also known as Calliagh Beara Lough, is unique for its quiet mountain setting on top of a ridge, right next to the ancient North Cairn of Slieve Gullion. It is believed to be the highest lough in Northern Ireland. On clear days, the sky reflects beautifully in its calm waters, and local legend attributes it as the home of the witch Beara, adding a touch of ancient magic to the tranquil surroundings.
Are there easy walking options around the lakes for beginners?
Yes, there are easy walking options suitable for beginners. The paths around Bessbrook Pond are ideal for a peaceful waterside stroll. Additionally, the Easy hikes around Drumalane guide lists routes like the Bessbrook War Memorial loop, which is an easy 4.3 km walk, and the Newry River loop, an easy 3.7 km route.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Drumalane?
The lakes near Drumalane can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for water sports at Camlough Lake and longer walks. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially around the woodlands, while winter provides a stark, serene beauty, particularly in the Mourne Mountains around Silent Valley Reservoir, though some trails may be more challenging.
Can I go cycling near the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the area. The roads around Camlough Lake are not very busy, making for relaxed rides. For more extensive cycling, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Drumalane guide, which features routes like the Warrenpoint, Rostrevor and Mayobridge loop, offering scenic views and varying distances.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Drumalane?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of places like Silent Valley Reservoir and Camlough Lake, finding them perfect for relaxation and escaping the everyday. The stunning views, especially from viewpoints like View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road, and the sense of ancient magic at sites like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, are also frequently highlighted.
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