Lakes around Clarkill are situated within a region characterized by rolling hills and mountainous terrain, notably around Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. This area features tranquil loughs, some of which are associated with historical sites like Bronze Age cairns. The landscape offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, providing opportunities for exploration. Visitors can experience serene waters reflecting the surrounding hills and discover ancient landmarks.
Last updated: May 2, 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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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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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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The lakes around Clarkill are set within a landscape of rolling hills and mountainous terrain, particularly around Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. You'll find tranquil loughs, some at high altitudes like Calliagh Beara Lough (the highest in Northern Ireland), and others like Camlough Lake nestled between hills. The area offers serene waters reflecting the surrounding hills and a blend of natural beauty.
Yes, the region has a rich history. For instance, near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, you can find a Bronze Age cairn. Additionally, along Glasdrumman Lough, there's an information panel about the Poets Trail, which explains the history of O'Neill Castle, connecting nature with local legends and poetry.
Absolutely. Camlough Lake, Glasdrumman Lough, and Bessbrook Pond are all noted as family-friendly. Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is ideal for a waterside stroll along its paths, perfect for families.
You'll find a variety of hiking trails. For example, the Slieve Gullion area offers routes like the Slieve Gullion loop and the Giant's Lair Trail. There's also a moderate Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Clarkill guide.
Yes, the area provides several running trails. Popular options include the Camlough Lake running loop and the Slieve Gullion running loop. The Poets Trails also offer routes like the Ballykeel running loop. For more details, check out the Running Trails around Clarkill guide.
Yes, you can find road cycling routes that take you through the scenic lake areas. Routes like the Killevy Churches Ruins loop from Camlough Lake offer a chance to cycle alongside the water. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Clarkill guide.
Camlough Lake is a narrow, elongate lough stretching over two kilometers, nestled between the hills of Slieve Gullion. It's known for its often calm, tranquil waters, providing a peaceful setting for cycling along its shores and enjoying the reflections of the surrounding hills. It's also considered a rich fishing spot.
The highest lough in Northern Ireland is Calliagh Beara Lough, situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion. It's an intermediate lake offering unique high-altitude scenery.
This highlight combines a summit with a mountain lake. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is a Bronze Age burial cairn, measuring about 18 meters in diameter, with two stone boxes found during excavations. Right next to it is the 'Calliagh Beara's Lough' on top of the ridge, offering sweeping views and a touch of mysticism.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The serene waters reflecting the surrounding hills, the opportunities for exploration, and the presence of ancient landmarks like Bronze Age cairns are frequently highlighted. The komoot community has shared 7 photos and given 15 upvotes to the lakes in the region, indicating a positive experience.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond is described as a peaceful pond in the heart of Bessbrook village, ideal for a waterside stroll. The tranquil waters of Camlough Lake also offer a serene environment for a quiet walk or cycle along its shores.


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