The best walks and hikes around Bunlougher

There are over 7 hiking trails documented on komoot for the Bunlougher area, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to moderate hikes.

Hikes around Bunlougher primarily feature serene lakeside paths, dense woodlands, and gentle hills. The region is centered around Lough Key, an expansive lake with numerous wooded islands, offering picturesque and immersive natural environments. You'll find trails through mature forests and along the shores of various loughs.

Yes, Bunlougher offers several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Errasallagh and Kimran Forest loop via Lough Corry is an easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) path through forestland and along Lough Corry, perfect for a family outing. Another easy option is the Whiskered Bat Nature Trail – Killyfole Lough loop from Aghadrumsee, which is just 2.3 miles (3.7 km) long.

Many trails in Bunlougher are suitable for dogs, especially those through woodlands and along lake shores. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and follow local signage, particularly in nature reserves or areas with livestock, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and wildlife.

Yes, Bunlougher features several excellent circular routes. The Lough Antrawer Loop is a popular 7.2-mile (11.6 km) moderate trail that encircles Lough Antrawer. Another option is the Slieve Beagh loop via lough Antrawer, a 5.6-mile (9.0 km) trail through the Slieve Beagh hills. For a shorter, easy circular walk, consider the Lough Jenkin – Lough Nadarra loop from Altagoaghan.

The Bunlougher area, particularly around Lough Key, offers several points of interest. You can enjoy panoramic views of Lough Key and its islands from various vantage points, including the Moylurg viewing tower. While hiking, you might pass by natural features like Lough Antrawar and Lough Corry. For a unique historical experience, the Rockingham Remembered Tour in Lough Key Forest & Activity Park leads through 19th-century underground tunnels to the Moylurg viewing tower and along the Tree Canopy Walk, offering a bird's eye view of the lake.

The hiking routes in Bunlougher are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene lakeside paths, the beauty of the dense woodlands, and the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels.

Beyond the trails themselves, the region boasts attractions like the Cooneen Ghost House for those interested in local history. Natural features such as Carnmore Lough offer scenic viewpoints. The Lough Key Forest & Activity Park itself provides a wealth of activities including a Tree Canopy Walk and the Moylurg Viewing Tower, which offers exceptional vistas of Lough Key.

The Bunlougher area is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for enjoying the lakeside and woodland trails. Autumn brings vibrant fall colors to the extensive woodlands, creating a picturesque hiking experience. Even in winter, the clear skies and fresh air provide a refreshing outdoor experience, though some paths might be muddy.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, areas like Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, which is central to the region, offer dedicated parking facilities. For other trails, roadside parking or small car parks are often available near popular starting points. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information before you go.