Top 5 Lakes around Carneyhough

The narrow "crooked lake" Camlough is named after. Coffee nearby at Café Mon Abri and Dr Brew. On our Ring Dyke ride: cyclesoutharmagh.com/routes/the-ring-dyke

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.

From the Flagstaff Viewpoint you can enjoy a stunning view of the expansive landscape where the Newry River gently curves its way to Carlingford Lough. The view stretches down to the fjord where the land meets the water and the hills in the distance form a picturesque backdrop. The valley opens up between the lush green conifers and you can watch the landscape unfold below you. From up here, the roads and fields look like little veins and patches that tie the whole picture together. It is a place to linger and enjoy the silence - a haven of calm that makes you feel above it all.

Camlough Lake is a peaceful place where time seems to pass more slowly. As you stroll along the path, the sparkling water stretches out before you, framed by rolling hills and the shade of the surrounding forests. A few curious goats watch you from a meadow, their gaze almost as interested as yours as you enjoy the view. There is not only nature to experience here, but also small amenities - a car park and a picnic area invite you to take a break. The view of the lake, which once served as a reservoir, is a wonderful way to relax. The lake is also a popular destination for anglers who wait patiently for their catch here. A walk around Camlough Lake is a welcome break that simply does you good.

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.

Running along this road next to Camlough Lake is a sensory delight. Additionally, at the southernmost section of the stretch, there's a picnic area with views of the lake where you can rest or even stop for a snack.

This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.

Along this stretch of road, to the east, you'll have very good views of Camlough Lake. There is also a parking and picnic area. Camlough Lake is a large disused reservoir, also popular for fishing.