Top 6 Lakes around Cloghoge
Lakes around Cloghoge are characterized by diverse natural features, depending on the specific location within Ireland. The area in County Down, Northern Ireland, features glacial ribbon lakes nestled within the Ring of Gullion, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region offers a landscape shaped by igneous rocks and varied wildlife habitats. The Cloghoge River in County Wicklow feeds scenic mountain lakes, while County Cavan is known as the "Lakeland County" with numerous lakes.
Best lakes around Cloghoge
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Last updated: June 29, 2026
North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Camlough Lake
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road
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Bessbrook Pond
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There is something magical about the landscape - on the left the towering hills reaching up into the sky, on the right the calm water shimmering in the light. The road winds along the coast, picturesque and with a touch of wildness that is so rarely found. The air smells fresh and slightly salty, and the constant wind from the water gives the route a refreshing note.
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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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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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Beautiful road leading in or out of Warrenpoint. Good road surface and great views on all sides.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic lakes around Cloghoge for photography and views?
For stunning views, Lough Tay in County Wicklow, often called 'The Guinness Lake,' is highly recommended due to its dark peaty waters and white sand shore, creating a unique visual. You can best appreciate its iconic scenery from various car parks along the R759 road or from a hike up the Wicklow Way. In County Down, Camlough Lake offers picturesque views nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. For a unique mountain lake view, visit North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which reflects the sky from atop Slieve Gullion.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Cloghoge with easy access?
Yes, Camlough Lake in County Down is considered family-friendly, offering lakeside walking trails, picnic areas, and seating. Its calm waters are suitable for various activities. In County Cavan, Killykeen Forest Park on Lough Oughter provides walking, cycling, and birdwatching opportunities that are great for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Cloghoge?
The lakes around Cloghoge offer a variety of outdoor activities. Camlough Lake is popular for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Lakeside trails are great for walking and jogging. For hiking, cycling, and running, you can explore numerous routes in the wider Cloghoge area. For example, there are many easy hikes, cycling routes, and running trails available, including those around the Ring of Gullion.
Which lakes are best for fishing in the Cloghoge region?
Camlough Lake in County Down is a well-loved spot for freshwater fishing, stocked with pike, bream, roach, perch, and ferox trout. Boat fishing is permitted, though a permit may be required. County Cavan, known as the 'Lakeland County,' is also a haven for anglers, particularly for pike, bream, roach, and perch fishing in its many lakes, including the Lough Oughter system.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, you can find the North Cairn, a Bronze Age site. In County Cavan, the historic Clough Oughter Castle, accessible only by boat, is located within the Lough Oughter system, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
What is the highest lake in Northern Ireland around Cloghoge?
The highest lake in Northern Ireland is Calliagh Beara Lough, situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion.
Can I find peaceful, less crowded lakes for walking around Cloghoge?
Yes, Lough Dan in County Wicklow, located further south from Lough Tay, offers a peaceful and scenic environment away from busier tourist spots. Its beautiful rural landscapes are ideal for hill-walking and connecting with nature.
What kind of natural features define the lakes around Cloghoge?
The lakes around Cloghoge are characterized by diverse natural features. In County Down, you'll find glacial ribbon lakes like Camlough Lake, nestled within the Ring of Gullion, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with unique geology. In County Wicklow, mountain lakes like Lough Tay and Lough Dan are fed by the Cloghoge River and are set amidst the dramatic Wicklow Mountains. County Cavan is known for its abundance of lakes, forming part of the River Erne system.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Cloghoge?
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty of the lakes. For instance, the calm waters of Camlough Lake provide a peaceful place for a break, and the surrounding roads offer relaxed cycling. The mystical atmosphere and sweeping views from locations like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough are also highly appreciated.
Are there any lakes suitable for wild swimming near Cloghoge?
While specific 'secret spots' for wild swimming are not detailed, Camlough Lake is known for its clear, calm waters and is a popular hub for open-water athletics, including ice mile attempts and swimming races, suggesting it is suitable for swimming.
Where can I find viewpoints to see the lakes around Cloghoge?
Excellent viewpoints for Lough Tay are available from various car parks along the R759 road in County Wicklow, or from the Wicklow Way. For Camlough Lake, the surrounding hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion offer panoramic perspectives. Additionally, the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road provides great views of the lough and surrounding landscape.
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