The best walks and hikes around Gortaree

There are 6 hiking routes available around Gortaree, all of which are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.

Hiking around Gortaree offers diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills and mountain streams on the eastern foothills of Slieve Rushen mountain to the expansive Upper Lough Erne. You'll find paths through ancient woodlands, along lough shores, and past historical ruins, particularly within the nearby Crom Estate.

While hiking is enjoyable year-round, the spring and summer months typically offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Gortaree's trails and enjoying the natural beauty of Upper Lough Erne and Slieve Rushen. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Yes, all 6 hiking routes around Gortaree are rated as easy, making them ideal for beginners and families. They generally feature gentle terrain and offer enjoyable experiences for those new to hiking or looking for a relaxed outing.

Many trails in the area lead to fascinating historical sites and natural features. You can explore the Old Crom Castle Ruins and the Crom Estate Castle Ruins, or visit the tranquil Annagh Lough and the Crom Castle Boathouse. The Ballyconnel Lock 2 is also a point of interest along some routes.

Absolutely. The nearby Crom Estate, situated on Upper Lough Erne, is a significant nature conservation area. While hiking its trails, you might spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, otters, and a variety of rare bird and butterfly species.

Yes, several circular routes are available. For example, the Ballyconnell Canal loop to Annagh Lough is an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) path. Another option is the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop, which is 2.6 miles (4.2 km).

The hiking routes in Gortaree are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Hikers often praise the serene loughside paths, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the historical charm of sites like the Crom Estate.

Many trails in the Gortaree area, particularly those within natural estates and along lough shores, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to check specific park regulations if venturing into managed estates like Crom Estate.

Specific parking details vary by trailhead. For routes within the Crom Estate, designated parking areas are usually available for visitors. For other trails, roadside parking or small car parks in nearby villages like Bawnboy (for Slieve Rushen access) may be options. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the most accurate parking information.

While all routes directly listed are easy, the longest available is the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins), which covers 4.5 miles (7.3 km). For even longer distances, you can combine multiple easy routes or explore the extensive network of trails within the wider Fermanagh Lakelands, such as those at Crom Estate which offer over 12 miles of waymarked trails.

The hikes around Gortaree are generally gentle, with minimal elevation gain. For instance, the Crom Estate Trail has an elevation gain of about 25 meters, and the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop has about 42 meters. This makes them suitable for those preferring less strenuous walks.