Best lakes around Levallymore are found within the wider County Armagh region, which is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes. This area, including the Ring of Gullion, features rugged geological formations and ancient volcanic activity. While Levallymore itself is a townland, the surrounding county offers several significant bodies of water. These lakes contribute to the region's ecological importance and provide opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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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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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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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 lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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This peaceful pond located in the heart of the village of Bessbrook is an ideal place for a waterside stroll along its paths.
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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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Camlough Lake The often calm, tranquil waters of Cam Lough stretch for just over two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters for the fisherman and marks a break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion.
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The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is somewhat smaller than the South Cairn; it measures about 18 meters in diameter. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were found in the hill. Right next to it is the "Calliagh Beara's Lough" on top of the ridge.
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The area around Levallymore, within County Armagh, offers a diverse range of lakes. You'll find mountain loughs like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, tranquil ponds such as Bessbrook Pond, and larger bodies of water like Camlough Lake. These vary from ecologically important sites to those offering recreational activities.
Yes, the region features several mountain lakes. Notably, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a serene mountain lake situated next to a Bronze Age cairn. Additionally, Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is recognized as the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
The lakes around Levallymore are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including easy walks like the Giant's Lair Trail, or more challenging routes around Slieve Gullion. There are also extensive options for road cycling and mountain biking. For detailed routes, check out the easy hikes, road cycling routes, and MTB trails guides for the area.
Absolutely. Several lakes are well-suited for families. Camlough Lake is known for its tranquil waters and is a great spot for a leisurely visit. Glasdrumman Lough offers calm waters and is part of the Poets Trail, combining nature with history. Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, provides peaceful waterside strolls perfect for all ages.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. Camlough Lake is known for its rich waters, making it a good spot for anglers. Additionally, Lowry's Lake in County Armagh is regularly stocked with Rainbow and Brown Trout, offering excellent fly fishing opportunities.
The lakes are often intertwined with local history and folklore. Near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, you'll find a Bronze Age cairn, adding a layer of ancient history. Glasdrumman Lough is part of the Poets Trail, which shares the history of the region, including the nearby O'Neill Castle ruins.
Yes, the wider County Armagh region offers significant sites for wildlife. Portmore Lough, an RSPB Nature Reserve, is a mosaic of wetland habitats important for breeding birds like lapwing and snipe, and hosts various wildfowl, coot, pochard, and tufted ducks. Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Northern Ireland, is also known for its ecological importance and is a popular spot for birdwatching.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape, while winter can offer a mystical atmosphere, especially around the mountain loughs, though trails may be more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
For those seeking accessible paths, Bessbrook Pond offers pleasant waterside strolls with well-maintained paths. Lowry's Lake, while not directly in Levallymore, also provides good access for walking around its perimeter, making it a suitable option for easier walks.
The landscape around the lakes is primarily defined by the rugged geological formations and ancient volcanic activity of the Ring of Gullion. Slieve Gullion, the highest peak in County Armagh, overlooks many of these areas, providing dramatic backdrops. You'll encounter green hills, tranquil waters reflecting the sky, and diverse wetland habitats.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility and mystical atmosphere, especially around places like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. The peaceful waters of Camlough Lake and Bessbrook Pond are also highly valued for relaxation and gentle walks. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and opportunities for outdoor activities makes the region appealing.
Yes, several trails offer views or pass directly by the lakes. The Poets Trail, for instance, runs alongside Glasdrumman Lough, combining natural scenery with local history. Many hiking routes in the Ring of Gullion area will also lead you past or offer views of lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough and North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough.


Still not found your perfect lake around Levallymore? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.