Attractions and Places To See around Gorteen - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Gorteen include a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. The area offers opportunities to explore ancient ruins, traditional music heritage, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can find historical monuments and natural loughs.
Best attractions and places to see around Gorteen
- The most popular attractions is Carnmore Lough, a viewpoint that features a wild and scenic lough against a backdrop of coniferous forest. This lough is situated along Carnmore Road.
- Another…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Cooneen Ghost House
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Carnmore Lough
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Lough Corry
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
1
0
This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
2
0
This house is thought to be the only one in Ireland where an exorcism has taken place. Since the exorcism the house is said to be haunted by the poltergeist. Experts of the paranormal suggests that there is a very heavy and eerie atmosphere in the house. Head east on Mullaghfad road for 100 metres to find the spooky house!
1
0
This mountain lake in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore. This lough provides excellent fishing from a boat also.
2
0
The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
1
0
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Gorteen?
The area around Gorteen is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a 12th-century monastery, and the nearby Clones Round Tower, which dates back to the 10th century. Further afield, you can explore the ruins of Moygara Castle and the impressive Cashelore Stone Fort, an ancient farmstead used for protection.
Are there any cultural attractions related to Irish music in the Gorteen area?
Yes, Gorteen is a significant hub for traditional Irish music. The **Michael Coleman Irish Music Centre** celebrates the heritage of South Sligo style music, and you can also visit **Coleman Cottage** at Mount Irwin to see a preserved traditional home and forge, offering a glimpse into local history and culture.
Where can I find scenic natural spots or loughs near Gorteen?
For natural beauty, you can visit Carnmore Lough, a wild and scenic lough surrounded by coniferous forest. Another option is Lough Corry in Doon Forest. Additionally, Annagh Lough offers beautiful scenery and looping nature trails through Annagh Woods, while Slish Wood on the shores of Lough Gill provides pleasant walks.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling around Gorteen?
Absolutely! Gorteen offers various outdoor activities. You can find several running trails, such as the 'Running loop from Altawark' or the 'Doon Forest loop from Knocks'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop' and general cycling tours including sections of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail. You can explore more options on the Running Trails around Gorteen, Road Cycling Routes around Gorteen, and Cycling around Gorteen guide pages.
What are some family-friendly attractions in the Gorteen area?
Families can enjoy exploring historical sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey, which is listed as family-friendly. The natural loughs and walking trails, such as those around Annagh Lough and Slish Wood, also provide enjoyable outdoor experiences for all ages.
Can I go fishing in any of the loughs near Gorteen?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. Lough Corry in Doon Forest is known for good brown trout fishing, with options for wading or boat fishing. Annagh Lough is also a popular spot for trout fishing.
What unique or lesser-known historical places are there to discover?
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Cooneen Ghost House, reputed to be the only house in Ireland where an exorcism has taken place and is said to be haunted by a poltergeist. It offers a very eerie atmosphere for those interested in the paranormal.
Where can I find walking trails with natural beauty around Gorteen?
The area offers several beautiful walking trails. You can explore the looping nature trails through Annagh Woods near Annagh Lough, or enjoy the Ballintogher Walking Trail with views towards Slish Wood. Slish Wood itself, on the shores of Lough Gill, also features a pleasant looped walk through remnants of an oak forest.
Is there a place to learn about traditional Irish life near Gorteen?
Yes, **Coleman Cottage** located at Mount Irwin, just outside Gorteen, provides an excellent opportunity to learn about traditional Irish life. It features a preserved cottage, a forge, and an archive, offering insights into the past.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Carnmore Lough?
Carnmore Lough is characterized by its wild and scenic beauty. You'll find a tranquil lough set against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest, making it a picturesque spot for nature observation.
Are there any literary connections or places of poetic inspiration in the region?
Yes, the region has a significant literary connection. The **Lake Isle of Innisfree**, a small island in Lough Gill, famously inspired William Butler Yeats' renowned poem. It is part of the Sligo Yeats Trail and offers beautiful scenery that continues to inspire.
What is the best time to visit Gorteen for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, generally, the warmer and drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring natural sites around Gorteen, offering more pleasant weather conditions.
Most popular routes around Gorteen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
