Lakes around Newtown are situated within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and ancient geological formations, such as the Ring of Gullion. This area offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with several lakes nestled amidst its terrain. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities, including exploring mountain loughs and tranquil waters.
Last updated: May 2, 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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The most popular lakes around Newtown include North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which features a mountain lake next to an ancient Bronze Age cairn. Another favorite is Camlough Lake, known for its tranquil waters nestled between the hills of Slieve Gullion. Visitors also appreciate Bessbrook Pond for its peaceful waterside strolls.
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. It features an ancient Bronze Age cairn where stone boxes were found during excavations. The lough itself is steeped in local legend, said to be the home of the witch Beara.
Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Camlough Lake is ideal for enjoying tranquil waters. It's a popular spot for fishing and offers pleasant cycling opportunities along its shores. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place for a relaxing break.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond is considered family-friendly, offering peaceful waterside paths perfect for a stroll. Additionally, the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road is also noted as family-friendly, providing great scenic views.
The area around Newtown's lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Slieve Gullion loop' and 'Giant's Lair Trail'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as 'Warrenpoint, Rostrevor and Mayobridge loop' and mountain biking trails like 'Newry, Carnavaddy and Annaloughan Mountain loop'. You can explore more options in the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and MTB trails guide for Newtown.
For stunning vistas, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough offers sweeping views from the Slieve Gullion ridge. Another excellent spot is the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road, which provides picturesque scenery of the lough and surrounding hills.
The lakes around Newtown are set within a landscape of rolling hills and ancient geological formations, notably the Ring of Gullion. This area combines natural beauty with historical significance, featuring mountain loughs and tranquil waters nestled amidst the terrain.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, offers ideal paths for a peaceful waterside stroll.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Camlough Lake, the historical intrigue of North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, and the scenic views from spots overlooking Carlingford Lough are frequently highlighted.
Yes, Camlough Lake is a great option for cycling. The roads around the lake are not very busy, allowing for relaxed rides along its shores, with beautiful reflections of the surrounding hills on the water.


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