Best attractions and places to see around Drumcoo are situated within Belcoo East, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The area offers access to a variety of notable landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites in the surrounding region. Visitors can explore a landscape characterized by lakes, mountains, and bogs, alongside significant historical locations. This locality serves as a base for discovering the diverse natural and historical heritage of County Fermanagh.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
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Would not regard the Sligo Road from Enniskillen to Belcoo as a cycle friendly road. Extremely poor surface for considerable stretches, very bendy in places too. I live in Enniskillen; have cycled it but would avoid it if at all possible. Cycling via Five Points , on Swanlinbar Road; then via old rail line from old Letterbreen railway station towards Lough MacNean ; or take road from Five Points towards Gortatole is a far more pleasant and safer option.
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Incredible Stone-Age park, with some technical trails. Massive mythological sacred stones worshipped over centuries, will follow you when adventuring into this unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
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Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
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Strenuous but rewarding path on footbridges over the high moor. Pretty well known through insta, so sm best come first thing in the morning
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Many of Ireland’s megalithic monuments—portal tombs, court cairns, or wedge tombs such as this one—are known locally as “the giant’s grave.” But this one, on a hilltop in Co. Cavan’s Burren Forest Park, has a giant story to go along with its name. According to Harold Johnson, from the nearby town of Blacklion, the giant, attempting to impress a lady, failed in his final attempt to jump the nearby chasm, which is, of course, called “The Giant’s Leap.” Harold Johnson relates this story in some detail, while seated on the Giant’s Grave, in the video, below right. Mr. Johnson also was our guide, and provided the narration, for our feature on the Killinagh Cursing Stones, located on the opposite side of the town of Blacklion. (https://voicesfromthedawn.com/burren-giants-grave/)
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Lower Lough MacNean, also known as Lough Nilly, is one of two lakes that together form Lough MacNean. Around the circumference of the lake there is a 42 mile (67.6 km) sculpture trail that showcases the rich human history and diverse wildlife around the lake. Lough MacNean lies within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark which preserves the ancient landscapes. The reedbeds, fen peats, wet grasslands and wet woodland are home to diverse mammals, insects, and birds.
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The region around Drumcoo is rich in natural beauty. You can experience the challenging but rewarding Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), which offers panoramic views from its summit. Lough Erne is a prominent natural feature, and areas like Lough Navar Forest, part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, provide walking trails with stunning views of Lower Lough Erne. Additionally, Lower Lough MacNean is a significant lake within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark, known for its sculpture trail and diverse wildlife.
Yes, Drumcoo is surrounded by significant historical and cultural sites. You can visit Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, ancient megalithic tombs in the Burren Forest. Another notable site is Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones, an impressive Stone-Age park. Other historical attractions in the wider region include Florence Court, Enniskillen Castle Museums, Devenish Island, Crom Estate, and Castle Archdale. For more information on historic places to visit, you can refer to the Northern Ireland Communities website: Historic Places to Visit.
Drumcoo is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various hiking opportunities, including the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail. For more hiking options, explore routes like the easy Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave, or the moderate Cavan Way. You can find detailed guides for hiking in the area, including routes around Drumcoo and easy hikes around Drumcoo.
Yes, there are several cycling routes in the vicinity. The Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop offers a moderate cycling experience. For more challenging rides, consider routes like The Quarry – View of Lough Nabrickboy loop or the Lower Lough MacNean – Enniskillen Castle loop. You can discover more cycling options in the cycling guide for Drumcoo.
The best time to visit Drumcoo for outdoor activities and exploring attractions is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is often milder and more stable, making it ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Summer (June-August) is also popular, though it can be busier. Winter visits are possible, but be prepared for colder, wetter weather and shorter daylight hours.
For the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, there is a dedicated car park, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park. It serves as an ideal starting point for the hike. Please note that a parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros is typically required and must be paid in cash to the steward. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles or motorhomes.
While the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail can be challenging, many families enjoy the experience. The Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones offers an engaging outdoor experience for families with its unique geological and archaeological forest landscape. Exploring the grounds of Florence Court or Castle Archdale, with their historical significance and natural settings, can also be enjoyable for families.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural landscapes and the sense of history in the area. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is particularly loved for its excellently laid-out boardwalk through a wonderful moor landscape and the rewarding panoramic views from the summit. The mythological stories associated with sites like Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave and Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones also captivate visitors.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails suitable for various fitness levels. Examples include the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave, the Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River route, and the Tullygobban Tomb – Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave loop. For a comprehensive list of easier options, refer to the easy hikes around Drumcoo guide.
When hiking the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as it can get busy. The trail is strenuous but rewarding, with a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps. Be prepared for varying weather conditions on the mountain, and wear appropriate footwear. The boardwalk protects the delicate bog ecosystem, so please stick to the marked path. Remember to bring cash for parking at the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park.
Lower Lough MacNean, also known as Lough Nilly, is part of the larger Lough MacNean system and lies within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark. It is significant for its preservation of ancient landscapes, reedbeds, fen peats, wet grasslands, and wet woodlands, which are home to diverse mammals, insects, and birds. A 42-mile (67.6 km) sculpture trail around the lake showcases the rich human history and wildlife of the area.
Beyond the megalithic sites, the wider County Fermanagh area offers several castles and ancient ruins. You can visit Enniskillen Castle Museums, which has a history dating back to 1428. Other notable sites include Portora Castle in Enniskillen, Monea Castle, and Tully Castle in Derrygonnelly. Devenish Island also hosts an ancient monastery complex, accessible by boat.


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