Best lakes around Foughill Etra are situated in a region known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This area, close to the Ring of Gullion, features several notable loughs that offer recreational opportunities and scenic views. The terrain includes hills and tranquil waters, providing a setting for outdoor activities. Foughill Etra's location makes it a point of access to these natural features.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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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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Visitors frequently enjoy North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, known for its quiet mountain lake and reflections. Another favorite is Camlough Lake, offering tranquil waters and picturesque scenery. View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road is also highly rated for its stunning vistas.
Yes, Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting for all ages. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is an ideal spot for a waterside stroll with family.
The region features a variety of natural beauty, including quiet mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara's Lough, which beautifully reflects the sky. You'll also find elongated loughs such as Camlough Lake, nestled between rolling hills, and scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of larger bodies of water like Carlingford Lough.
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. The North Cairn contains Bronze Age stone boxes, and Calliagh Beara's Lough itself is steeped in local legend, believed to be the home of the mythical witch Beara.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Slieve Gullion loop' or the 'Ravensdale Forest loop'. For an easier walk, consider the 'Giant's Lair Trail'. Many of these routes are accessible from the lakes. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Foughill Etra guide or the Running Trails around Foughill Etra guide.
Yes, for instance, the area around Calliagh Beara's Lough is part of the Slieve Gullion terrain, offering routes that lead to the lough and the North Cairn. While the path can be rocky, it rewards with sweeping views. You can explore routes like the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop' in the Hiking around Foughill Etra guide.
Calliagh Beara's Lough is unique for several reasons: it's a quiet mountain lake nestled beside the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, known for its serene reflections and being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It's also rich in folklore, believed to be the home of the mythical witch Beara, adding a mystical atmosphere to its natural beauty.
Yes, Camlough Lake is particularly appealing to fishermen, known for its rich and tranquil waters. Its elongated shape and peaceful setting make it an ideal spot for angling.
Visitors frequently highlight the tranquility and picturesque scenery. The calm waters reflecting the sky, the peaceful atmosphere for short breaks, and the sweeping views from elevated points are often mentioned. The blend of natural beauty with local legends, especially around Calliagh Beara's Lough, also adds to the appeal.
Yes, Camlough Lake is suitable for cycling. The roads around the lake are generally not very busy, allowing for a relaxed ride where you can enjoy the special atmosphere and views of the surrounding hills.
For an easy and peaceful experience, Bessbrook Pond offers waterside strolls along its paths. While the terrain around mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara's Lough can be rocky, there are also easier hiking options in the broader region, such as the 'Giant's Lair Trail' mentioned in the Easy hikes around Foughill Etra guide.


Still not found your perfect lake around Foughill Etra? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.