Top 5 Lakes around Sturgan
Best lakes around Sturgan are situated in a region characterized by its natural landscape, including hills and tranquil waters. Sturgan, a townland in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, serves as a base for exploring the surrounding area, which features several notable loughs and ponds. The area offers opportunities for quiet waterside strolls and scenic views. This region provides a blend of historical sites and natural monuments alongside its aquatic features.
Best lakes around Sturgan
- The most popular lakes is North Cairn…
Last updated: May 18, 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 types of lakes can I find around Sturgan?
Around Sturgan, you'll discover a variety of lakes, including high-altitude mountain loughs like Calliagh Beara Lough, elongated loughs such as Camlough Lake, and peaceful village ponds like Bessbrook Pond. The region offers a mix of natural monuments and accessible waters.
Are there any family-friendly lakes near Sturgan?
Yes, Camlough Lake is known as a family-friendly spot, offering a peaceful setting for walks and cycling. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is ideal for a relaxed waterside stroll with family.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
The area around Sturgan is rich in history. For instance, the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age cairn, offering a glimpse into ancient history right next to a mountain lake. Calliagh Beara Lough itself is situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The lakes around Sturgan are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy loops around Bessbrook Pond or more challenging routes up Slieve Gullion. Cycling is also popular, especially around Camlough Lake. For more detailed routes, explore the easy hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes available in the region.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walking options. Bessbrook Pond offers peaceful waterside paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. For slightly longer, easy hikes that include lake views, you can explore routes like the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' or 'Slieve Gullion Summit loop from Ring of Gullion AONB' found in the easy hikes guide.
Which lake offers the best views?
For sweeping panoramic views, the area around North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is highly recommended. Situated on top of a ridge, it provides extensive vistas of the surrounding landscape. Camlough Lake also offers picturesque views, nestled between the hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion.
What makes Calliagh Beara Lough unique?
Calliagh Beara Lough is notable for being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It is uniquely situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, adding to its natural and historical significance.
Can I cycle around any of the lakes?
Yes, Camlough Lake is a great option for cycling. The roads around the lake are generally not very busy, allowing for a relaxed ride while enjoying the scenery. You can find more cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Sturgan guide.
What is the significance of Slieve Gullion in relation to these lakes?
Slieve Gullion is a prominent natural feature that significantly influences the landscape around Sturgan's lakes. Both North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough and Calliagh Beara Lough are located on or near Slieve Gullion, with the latter being nestled between its burial cairns. Camlough Lake also lies between the hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, making the mountain a central part of the region's natural beauty and hiking opportunities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Sturgan?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil waters and scenic views offered by the lakes. The blend of historical sites, such as the Bronze Age cairn near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, with the natural beauty of the loughs creates a unique experience. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Camlough Lake and Bessbrook Pond is also highly valued for relaxed outings.
Are there any challenging trails around the lakes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking more challenging routes, the area around Slieve Gullion offers options. While specific 'challenging' routes directly around the lakes aren't detailed, the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Ring of Gullion AONB' is listed as an easy hike, but the terrain around the mountain loughs can be rocky and more demanding. You can explore the various hiking guides for routes that suit your experience level, such as those linked in the easy hikes around Sturgan guide, which also includes summit loops.
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