Top 5 Lakes around Drumnahunshin
Best lakes around Drumnahunshin are found in a region characterized by rolling hills and a rich natural landscape, offering various outdoor experiences. While Drumnahunshin itself is a small townland, the surrounding County Armagh and nearby County Down feature notable lakes. This area is part of the Ring of Gullion, known for its glacial features and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore a mix of mountain lakes and larger bodies of water nestled within this distinctive geological area.
Best lakes around Drumnahunshin
…Last updated: June 30, 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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Bessbrook Pond
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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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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 popular lakes around Drumnahunshin?
The most popular lakes and loughs in the region include North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, known for its Bronze Age cairn and mountain lake, and Camlough Lake, a scenic glacial ribbon lake popular for fishing and watersports.
What types of lakes can I expect to find near Drumnahunshin?
You'll find a variety of lakes, from mountain lakes like Calliagh Beara Lough (the highest in Northern Ireland) to glacial ribbon lakes such as Camlough Lake, and peaceful ponds like Bessbrook Pond. The area is characterized by rolling hills and the distinctive geology of the Ring of Gullion.
What makes Camlough Lake a popular destination?
Camlough Lake is known for its tranquility and scenic beauty, nestled between the hills of Slieve Gullion. It's a hub for outdoor activities including swimming, kayaking, and triathlons, with calm, sheltered waters and a wide slipway. It's also well-stocked for anglers with pike, bream, roach, and perch.
Can you tell me more about Silent Valley Reservoir?
While located in County Down, Silent Valley Reservoir is a significant regional attraction accessible from the wider County Armagh area. It's an impressive example of early 20th-century engineering, surrounded by the dramatic Mourne Mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning mountain scenery, peaceful walks, a visitor center, coffee shop, and children's play area. The historic 22-mile-long Mourne Wall also traverses 15 mountain summits in the area.
Are there any unique natural features or landmarks at the lakes?
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age cairn right next to the mountain lake. At Silent Valley Reservoir, the impressive Victorian-style dam and the surrounding Mourne Mountains with their granite peaks and heathered slopes are notable natural and man-made landmarks.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Drumnahunshin?
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find running trails like the 'Camlough Lake running loop' or 'Bessbrook village running loop around Bessbrook Pond' in the Running Trails around Drumnahunshin guide. For hiking, options include the 'Camlough Mountain & Lake loop' or 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop' detailed in the Hiking around Drumnahunshin guide.
Are there family-friendly walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Camlough Lake is noted as family-friendly, and Bessbrook Pond provides peaceful waterside strolls. Silent Valley Reservoir also has well-kept paths suitable for various abilities, including prams, and features a children's play area.
Are there dog-friendly options for visiting the lakes?
Many outdoor areas around the lakes are generally dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply. Silent Valley Reservoir, for instance, offers walks through parkland and woodland, which are popular with dog walkers. Always keep dogs on a lead and clean up after them.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes?
Camlough Lake is known for its calm, sheltered waters and has become a hub for watersports, including swimming. It even gained international recognition for breaking a Guinness World Record for the longest open water relay swim. Always exercise caution and check local conditions and regulations before wild swimming.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Drumnahunshin?
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when conditions are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, watersports, and enjoying the scenic views. However, the tranquil beauty of the lakes can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different perspective.
Are there accessible options for visitors with limited mobility?
Silent Valley Reservoir in County Down offers well-kept paths suitable for various abilities, including wheelchair users and prams, making it a good option for visitors with limited mobility. It also has facilities like a visitor center and coffee shop.
Are there cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Silent Valley Reservoir provides a visitor center and a coffee shop on-site. For Camlough Lake, a new recreational hub is planned to feature changing facilities, storage for watersports equipment, and picnic areas. For other lakes, it's advisable to check nearby villages or towns for cafes, pubs, and other amenities.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes?
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site, featuring a Bronze Age cairn where ancient stone boxes were found. Silent Valley Reservoir itself is an impressive example of early 20th-century engineering, and the historic Mourne Wall is a notable landmark in its vicinity.
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