Attractions and Places To See around Rosslea - Top 6
Attractions and places to see around Rosslea, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, offer a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. This region is characterized by its proximity to Lough Erne, the River Finn, and numerous small natural lakes. Visitors can explore ancient historical sites and enjoy the tranquil landscapes of forests and loughs. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Rosslea
- The most popular attractions is Carnmore Lough, a viewpoint that offers a wild and scenic landscape. This lough is set against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
- Another must-see spot is Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore its crumbling walls and an interesting graveyard.
- Visitors also love Clones Round Tower, a prominent 10th-century historical site. This tower is a notable feature on the Clones skyline, surrounded by St Tierney's graveyard with 17th and 18th-century gravestones.
- Rosslea is known for its historical sites, natural lakes, and forests. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to serene natural viewpoints.
- The attractions around Rosslea are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 highlights having photos and 3 highlights receiving upvotes.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century.
Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Carnmore Lough
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Lough Antrawar
Highlight • Lake
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Lough Corry
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Lough Antrawar lies in the dip southeast of Slieve Beagh. The slopes above the lough are very wet and boggy so this is where the ground drains. The outflow stream flows down the valley and joins the River Blackwater.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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This mountain lake in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore. This lough provides excellent fishing from a boat also.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Rosslea?
Rosslea is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Carnmore Lough, a wild and scenic lough set against a backdrop of coniferous forest. Other notable lakes include Lough Antrawar, located in a wet and boggy area, and Lough Corry in Doon Forest, known for brown trout fishing. The village is also built on the River Finn and is close to Lough Erne, offering opportunities for boating and fishing. Spring Grove Forest, a 190-hectare coniferous forest, provides walking facilities.
What historical sites can I visit near Rosslea?
The area around Rosslea is rich in history. You can explore Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century with an interesting graveyard. Nearby, the Clones Round Tower, originally built around the 10th century, is a prominent feature on the Clones skyline, surrounded by St. Tierney's graveyard with 17th and 18th-century gravestones. St. Tierney's Church in Rosslea itself is a prominent 19th-century landmark.
Are there good walking or hiking trails near Rosslea?
Yes, there are several options for walking and hiking. Spring Grove Forest offers walking facilities. For more structured routes, you can find running trails around Rosslea, including the 'Lough Antrwar on the An Trá loop' which is a moderate 11.6 km route. You can explore these and other routes on the Running Trails around Rosslea guide.
What cultural attractions or local experiences are available in Rosslea?
Rosslea offers a strong sense of community and local culture. The Rosslea Heritage Centre is a community-controlled center providing information about the area's history and heritage. You can also experience the warm hospitality of the village in its traditional pubs, known for friendly locals.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near Rosslea?
The natural areas around Rosslea support various wildlife. Ross Lough Forest Nature Reserve, where the Sillees River meanders towards Lower Lough Erne, features swamp and fen habitats known for wetland plants and bird species like sedge warblers and kingfishers.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Rosslea?
Many of the natural and historical sites can be enjoyed by families. Exploring the ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the Clones Round Tower can be an engaging historical outing. Gentle walks in Spring Grove Forest or along the banks of the River Finn offer pleasant outdoor activities for all ages.
What is the best time of year to visit Rosslea for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Rosslea for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer and drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers more pleasant weather for exploring forests, lakes, and historical sites, as well as for walking and cycling.
Are there cycling routes available near Rosslea?
Yes, there are several cycling routes. You can find road cycling routes, such as the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones' (42.2 km, easy) or the 'Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones' (37.7 km, easy). For touring, the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Clones - Newbliss - Scotshouse' (35.9 km, moderate) is a good option. More details are available in the Road Cycling Routes around Rosslea guide and the Cycling around Rosslea guide.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Rosslea?
For scenic views, Carnmore Lough is highly recommended. It offers an extraordinarily wild and scenic landscape, appearing against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest. The Clones Round Tower also provides a prominent historical landmark on the skyline.
Are there opportunities for fishing near Rosslea?
Yes, the area is known for fishing. The River Finn and the small natural lakes surrounding Rosslea are known for trout and freshwater fish. Lough Corry in Doon Forest is particularly reputed for good brown trout fishing, accessible from a boat or by wading from the shore.
What are some lesser-known natural spots or 'hidden gems' near Rosslea?
Beyond the more prominent sites, Lough Antrawar offers a tranquil experience in a wet and boggy area, providing a sense of untouched nature. Ross Lough Forest Nature Reserve is another hidden gem, with its unique swamp and fen habitats and diverse wetland bird species, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Are there any places to eat or drink in Rosslea?
Rosslea has traditional pubs where you can enjoy local hospitality and find places to eat and drink. These establishments are known for their friendly atmosphere and are a good spot to interact with locals.
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