Top 8 Lakes around Fathom Upper
Best lakes around Fathom Upper are found within a landscape characterized by rolling hills, ancient geological formations, and historical sites. This region features prominent natural landmarks such as Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion, and the Mourne AONB, offering a blend of serene waters and rugged terrain. Visitors can explore mountain loughs, expansive loughs, and forest-bordered lakes, many of which are nestled within areas of significant natural beauty and historical importance. The area's lakes are often surrounded by trails and…
Last updated: May 2, 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 Rostrevor Forest and Carlingford Lough
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View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB
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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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A beautiful forest with good views of the sea
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Designated viewpoint, with a nice bench to relax
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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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A short climb rewards you with sensational views over Rostrevnor Forest and the glacial fjord of Carlingford Lough.
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Amazing views of Rostrevor national park and the coast from here. The trails are as good as the views too, with loads of interesting up and downhill sections. A great place to ride off-road!
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Beautiful spot, well worth the climb
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find in the Fathom Upper region?
The Fathom Upper region offers a diverse range of lakes, including serene mountain loughs, expansive loughs, and tranquil forest-bordered lakes. These are often nestled within areas of significant natural beauty like Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion, and the Mourne AONB.
Which lakes are highly rated by visitors in Fathom Upper?
Visitors particularly appreciate North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough for its sweeping views and Bronze Age history, and Camlough Lake for its tranquil waters and scenic cycling opportunities. Calliagh Beara Lough is also notable as the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Are there historical sites near the lakes in Fathom Upper?
Yes, the region is rich in history. For instance, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age burial site. Additionally, within Rostrevor Forest, you can find remnants of ancient oak woodlands, some believed to be over 250 years old, which were historically significant for boat building.
What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I explore around the lakes?
You can explore prominent natural landmarks such as Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, which frame many of the lakes. From the Mourne AONB, you can get amazing views of Carlingford Lough. Rostrevor Forest also offers scenic trails with stunning views of Carlingford Lough, especially from The Cloghmore Stone, a massive granite boulder deposited during the last ice age.
Are there family-friendly activities or lakes in the Fathom Upper area?
Yes, Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering tranquil waters ideal for peaceful breaks and scenic cycling. Rostrevor Forest, with its trails and facilities, is also a great family-friendly option.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes and trails in Fathom Upper?
Yes, Rostrevor Forest is dog-friendly, offering trails where you can enjoy the natural environment with your pet. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Fathom Upper?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Fathom Wood loop or the Summit of Ring of Gullion. For cycling, there are road cycling routes such as The Rostrevor Route loop or the Carlingford to Ballymascanlan loop. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and road cycling guide for Fathom Upper.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes in Fathom Upper?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, the Fathom Wood loop in the Ring of Gullion is an easy hike. Other easy options include routes around Ravensdale Forest. You can explore more easy hikes in the easy hikes guide for Fathom Upper.
Where can I find facilities like parking or cafes near the lakes?
For convenience, Rostrevor Forest is a good option as it provides both parking and cafe facilities, making it a comfortable base for exploring the area and enjoying views of Carlingford Lough.
What makes Calliagh Beara Lough unique?
Calliagh Beara Lough holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It is situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, offering a unique high-altitude lake experience with a touch of ancient history.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Fathom Upper?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Camlough Lake, in particular, is known for its scenic cycling routes along its tranquil shores. The roads around the lake are generally not very busy, allowing for relaxed rides.
What is the significance of the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion?
The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is a significant historical site featuring a Bronze Age burial site. It measures about 18 meters in diameter and is located right next to Calliagh Beara's Lough, offering a blend of ancient history and natural beauty with sweeping views.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Fathom Upper? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
