Attractions and Places To See around Aughanduff - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Aughanduff include natural features and historical sites within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by the Aughanduff Mountains, which offer scenic vistas of surrounding peaks and distant counties. Notable natural elements include Cashel Lough Lower, an Area of Special Scientific Interest, and the "Roaring Stream." Cultural points of interest, such as Our Lady Queen of Peace Church and prehistoric fortified enclosures, reflect the area's heritage.
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Last updated: May 9, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
Highlight • Volcano
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
Highlight • Summit
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Giant's Lair
Highlight • Structure
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The Witch Sculpture
Highlight • Forest
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Camlough Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
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Tips from the Community
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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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.
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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 small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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At the heart of the Ring of Gullion AONB, you'll find this beautiful mountain, which represents the highest point in the county with an elevation of 573 meters (1,880 ft). Right next to it there is a burial cairn.
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One of the many surprises you'll encounter in this enchanting and artistic forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Aughanduff?
Aughanduff is nestled within the picturesque Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can explore the Slieve Gullion Summit, an extinct volcano featuring the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles, and enjoy expansive views. Another notable feature is Camlough Lake, known for its tranquil waters. The area also includes the Aughanduff Mountains and Cashel Lough Lower, an Area of Special Scientific Interest recognized for its wetland habitat.
Where can I find the best scenic views in Aughanduff?
For breathtaking scenic views, head to the Slieve Gullion Summit. From its 573-meter peak, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains like Slievenacappel, Slieve Gullion, Mullaghbawn, and Dromintee, as well as distant counties. The slopes of the Aughanduff Mountains themselves also provide expansive views of the region.
Are there any significant geological formations in the Aughanduff area?
Yes, Aughanduff is part of the Ring of Gullion, a significant geological formation known for its ring-dyke intrusion, making it an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Slieve Gullion Summit is an extinct volcano, which is a prominent geological feature in the area.
What historical sites can I visit near Aughanduff?
Aughanduff boasts several historical points of interest. The Slieve Gullion Summit hosts the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. Nearby, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion features a Bronze Age burial mound. Additionally, the area has a pre-historic fortified enclosure listed on the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's Monuments and Buildings Record, and Our Lady Queen of Peace Church on Silverbridge Road, opened in 1957, reflects more recent cultural heritage.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities around Aughanduff?
Absolutely! The Giant's Lair offers a fantastic family hike that brings the story of Finn McCool to life through interactive chapters along the trail. Children will love discovering clues and sculptures like The Witch Sculpture. Camlough Lake is also a great spot for families to enjoy the tranquil waters and surrounding scenery.
What kind of walking or hiking trails are available near Aughanduff?
There are various walking and hiking trails to suit different abilities. For easy options, consider the Giant's Lair Trail or the Slieve Gullion Summit loop. More challenging routes include the Slieve Gullion running loop or the Camlough Mountain loop. You can find more details and routes on the Running Trails around Aughanduff guide.
Can I go cycling around Aughanduff?
Yes, Aughanduff and the surrounding Ring of Gullion offer excellent cycling opportunities. You can explore routes like the Giant's Lair – View of Slieve Gullion loop or the Camlough Lake loop. For more cycling options, check out the Cycling around Aughanduff guide, which includes routes ranging from moderate to difficult.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond exploring the attractions, the area around Aughanduff is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking and running on trails like those found in the Running Trails around Aughanduff guide, or embark on cycling adventures with routes detailed in the Cycling around Aughanduff guide. Fishing is also possible at Cashel Lough Lower, though a permit is required.
What do visitors enjoy most about Aughanduff's attractions?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the Slieve Gullion Summit and the sense of history at the ancient Passage Tomb. The interactive and magical experience of the Giant's Lair is a big hit with families, while the tranquil beauty of Camlough Lake provides a peaceful escape. The blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and family-friendly activities makes the area highly appreciated.
Is there parking available for trails and attractions in Aughanduff?
While specific parking details for every attraction are not listed, for popular hiking spots like Slieve Gullion Summit, there is often ample parking available at designated viewing platforms or forest park entrances, such as the Slieve Gullion Viewing Platform mentioned in visitor tips.
What is the best time to visit Aughanduff for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Aughanduff for outdoor activities like walking, hiking, and cycling is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more pleasant weather for exploring the mountains, lakes, and trails within the Ring of Gullion. However, the natural beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different charm.
Are there any unique natural monuments or features in the area?
Yes, the area is rich in unique natural monuments. The Slieve Gullion Summit itself is an extinct volcano and a natural monument. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is not only a historical site but also features the 'Calliagh Beara's Lough', a mountain lake on the ridge. Cashel Lough Lower is designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest due to its important wetland habitat.
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