Attractions and Places To See around Knockbodarra - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Knockbodarra include a diverse landscape of mountains, expansive moorlands, and historical estates. This region offers a mix of challenging trails and serene natural features, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can discover significant natural monuments and historical sites nestled within its varied terrain. The area is ideal for those seeking Knockbodarra hiking routes and exploring natural features.
Best attractions and places to see around Knockbodarra
- The most popular attractions is Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), a trail that leads across impressive moorland and up to a summit plateau. This trail is known for its wooden walkway and ascent to a historic burial mound.
- Another must-see spot is Cuilcagh Mountain Summit, a summit offering a challenging yet rewarding hike. Visitors can expect expansive blanket bogs and a steep ascent to a viewing platform.
- Visitors also love Cladagh Glen Waterfall, a forest area featuring a steep-sided gorge and limestone caves. This reserve is known for its water-sculpted river valley and beautiful waterfalls.
- Knockbodarra is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and diverse trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from challenging mountain ascents to tranquil forest walks.
- The attractions around Knockbodarra are appreciated by the komoot community, with 29 upvotes and 51 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Follow a wooden walkway that leads across the impressive moorland and up to the summit plateau. From the end of the boardwalk, it's about two kilometers to the tomb.
From the summit you either hike on the Ulster Way towards Gortalughany or turn around.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cuilcagh Mountain Summit Cairn
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
Highlight • Parking
Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Florence Court
Highlight • Forest
The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
Tip by
Marble Arch Caves
Highlight • Historical Site
The caves are only explorable by guided tours which run daily between 10am - 5pm. To secure a spot, visit marblearchcaves.co.uk/online-booking-guided-cave-tour
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Knockbodarra.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
0
0
Great walk, very touristy but it's worth the detour! Be careful of the crowds (on weekends and in summer I dare not imagine!). However, BE CAREFUL, the summit is not accessible, you have to pass the protective barriers which allow the wild nature to be preserved from our steps and from this crowd of people. If we, the Komoot community, start to do this all the tourists will allow themselves and the landscape will never be so beautiful again! (Ps: no need to climb to the top to already see enough in the eyes!)
0
0
Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
2
0
Stunning limestone caves which you can explore on a guided tour. Well worth a visit. There are 150 steps down to the caves so if you are wearing cleats please be aware, or change into a pair of trainers before you descend down into the natural wonder. There is also a cafe on site. For further details please see https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/
0
0
Cuilcagh Mountain sits right on the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. From the top, you can enjoy magnificent views across the rolling hills of Ireland in all directions.
1
0
Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
2
0
Marble Arch caves are situated at the picturesque foothills of the Cuilcagh Mountain. They are the longest underground cave system in Northern Ireland (7.1 miles in total) and are said to be the most magnificent in Britain. The caves are regarded as a world-class natural attraction, they are situated in the Cuilcagh Lakelands which is the world's first UNESCO Global Geopark. The caves are only explorable by guided tours which run daily between 10am - 5pm. To secure a spot, visit https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/online-booking-guided-cave-tour/
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I explore around Knockbodarra?
Knockbodarra offers a diverse landscape of mountains, expansive moorlands, and serene natural features. You can explore the impressive moorland and summit plateau of the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), or discover the steep-sided gorge, limestone caves, and beautiful waterfalls at Cladagh Glen Waterfall. The region is rich in natural monuments and offers varied terrain for outdoor exploration.
Are there challenging hikes or trails for experienced adventurers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit offers a rewarding hike with expansive blanket bogs and a steep ascent to a viewing platform. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, while featuring a wooden walkway, also involves a significant ascent to a historic burial mound, making it strenuous but rewarding. For more options, check out the 'Hiking around Knockbodarra' guide for routes like the 'Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop'.
What historical sites can I visit in the Knockbodarra area?
The region features historical estates such as Florence Court, a magnificent 18th-century country estate nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. This Georgian mansion, managed by the National Trust, offers insights into the area's heritage with a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge, and is surrounded by picturesque parkland and woodland.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities?
Yes, Florence Court is a great option for families, offering extensive grounds with over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails suitable for various ages. The estate provides a blend of history and nature that can be enjoyed by all. The natural beauty of Cladagh Glen Waterfall also offers an engaging outdoor experience for families.
Where can I park when visiting attractions like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
For the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park serves as an ideal starting point. There are several parking spaces available, including some reserved for larger vehicles. A parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros is typically required in cash, payable to the steward.
What are some easy walking trails around Knockbodarra?
For easier walks, you can explore trails within the Florence Court estate. Additionally, the 'Easy hikes around Knockbodarra' guide lists routes like 'Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River' and 'Florence Court – Florence Court loop from Drumlaghy', which are rated as easy and offer pleasant outdoor experiences.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
Visitors highly praise the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail for its excellently laid-out wooden walkway through a wonderful moor landscape. The strenuous but rewarding path leads to a breathtaking view from the summit plateau, making the effort worthwhile. It's particularly known for its unique ascent to a historic burial mound.
Are there opportunities for running or jogging near these attractions?
Yes, the area around Knockbodarra offers several running trails. For example, the 'Running Trails around Knockbodarra' guide includes routes like the 'Florence Court Red Trail' and various running loops from Drumlaghy, catering to different difficulty levels from easy to difficult.
What makes Cladagh Glen Waterfall a unique place to visit?
Cladagh Glen Waterfall is unique for its steep-sided gorge lined by ancient ash trees and a water-sculpted river valley featuring a spectacular arch formed by a collapsed cave roof. This nature reserve is known for its limestone gorge, mystical caves, and beautiful waterfalls, offering a tranquil and scenic experience.
Can I find viewpoints with panoramic scenery in Knockbodarra?
Absolutely. The Cuilcagh Mountain Summit provides fantastic panoramic views after a challenging ascent to its viewing platform. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail also culminates in a summit plateau offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding moorland and barren rocky landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit Knockbodarra for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal considerations are not detailed, the natural beauty of Knockbodarra, particularly areas like Cladagh Glen Waterfall, changes with the seasons. Spring brings bluebells and wild garlic, while autumn offers magical colors. For hiking and outdoor activities, generally milder weather in late spring, summer, and early autumn would be ideal, though some trails like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail are accessible year-round.
Most popular routes around Knockbodarra
Most popular attractions around Knockbodarra
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
