Best lakes around Shean are situated within a region characterized by rolling hills and tranquil waters, notably around Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. This area in Northern Ireland offers a landscape shaped by ancient geological features and historical sites. The lakes here are often nestled amidst natural monuments and provide settings for outdoor exploration. Visitors can experience a variety of natural environments, from mountain loughs to elongated valley lakes.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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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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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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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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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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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, which combines a Bronze Age burial site with a mountain lake and offers sweeping views. Another highly regarded spot is Camlough Lake, known for its calm, elongated waters nestled between the hills.
Yes, Camlough Lake is noted as family-friendly, offering a peaceful environment for observation. Additionally, Glasdrumman Lough is also considered family-friendly and features a section of the Poets' Trail.
The lakes around Shean are set amidst rolling hills and ancient geological features. You'll find mountain loughs, elongated valley lakes, and natural monuments. For instance, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a natural monument featuring a mountain lake, while Camlough Lake is an elongated lough providing a tranquil setting.
Yes, history is deeply woven into the landscape. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age burial site. Near Glasdrumman Lough, you can find information about the Poets' Trail and the history of O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today.
The area around Shean's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the Slieve Gullion loop or sections of the Poets' Trail. There are also options for road cycling and touring bicycle routes that pass by scenic lake views.
Yes, several hiking trails are available. For example, the Poets' Trail passes by Glasdrumman Lough. You can also find trails that lead to North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, offering moderate difficulty and rewarding views. More hiking options can be found in the hiking guide for Shean.
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, adding to its historical and natural significance.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and ancient history. Many enjoy the sweeping views from locations like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, the tranquility of places like Camlough Lake, and the opportunity to explore trails that combine nature with cultural heritage, such as those near Glasdrumman Lough.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to experience the area. The roads around Camlough Lake are generally not very busy, allowing for relaxed cycling. You can find various cycling routes in the wider Shean area, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer scenic views of the lakes and surrounding landscape.
The lakes around Shean are diverse, including mountain loughs, elongated valley lakes, and those associated with historical sites. They are often nestled within the rolling hills of the Slieve Gullion and Ring of Gullion area, known for their clear waters and serene environments.
Many of the lakes offer excellent viewpoints. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough provides sweeping views from its summit. Camlough Lake is also a great spot for observation, and Glasdrumman Lough offers scenic vistas along its trail.


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