The best walks and hikes around Skea

Yes, there are over 20 marked hiking trails in the area. The majority of these are rated as easy, with a few moderate options available, making the region very accessible for most walkers.

The trails are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of gentle lakeside paths, quiet forest trails, and routes through historic estates like Florence Court.

Many of the best walks in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen, which offers a pleasant walk with views of the historic castle and waterways.

While dogs are welcome in many of the public areas and forest parks, they often need to be kept on a lead, especially on trails that pass through farmland with livestock or protected wildlife habitats. Always check local signage at the trailhead before you start your walk.

Absolutely. The region is great for families, with many easy, low-gradient paths. The Florence Court House loop from Arney is a shorter, manageable walk through beautiful woodland that is perfect for an outing with children.

For a rewarding walk that includes a waterfall, head to Lough Navar Forest. The trails there lead to the impressive Blackslee Waterfall, which cascades over a 20-meter cliff. It's a highlight for many visitors to the Fermanagh Lakelands.

While most trails around Skea are gentle, the most famous challenge in the wider Fermanagh area is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, also known as the 'Stairway to Heaven'. This is a demanding 11km linear walk that involves a steep climb up a boardwalk to a viewing platform with panoramic views.

For spectacular views over Lower Lough Erne, the Magho Cliffs walk within Lough Navar Forest is highly recommended. On a clear day, the vistas are among the best in Northern Ireland. The summit of the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours for exploring. However, spring and autumn are also wonderful times to visit, with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colours in the woodlands. Be prepared for rain at any time of year.

Waterproof clothing is essential, as the weather can change quickly. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as some paths can be uneven or muddy. Also, bring water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. Using the komoot app on your phone can help with navigation.

Most of the main forest parks and popular trailheads, such as those at Florence Court, Lough Navar Forest, and the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, have dedicated car parks. However, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk car park can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is strongly advised.

Yes, the region is part of the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark. The caves themselves are a spectacular underground system of rivers and chambers that are well worth a visit. Guided tours are available to explore this fascinating subterranean world.