The best walks and hikes around Rossharbour

Yes, the area is great for families. For a gentle and accessible outing, the Castle Caldwell Forest loop is an excellent choice. It's a short, flat walk through a national nature reserve, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the region offers some strenuous climbs with rewarding views. The Cliffs of Magho via Old Man's Head is a long and demanding route that rewards your effort with incredible scenery over Lough Erne.

For spectacular panoramic views, the Cliffs of Magho are a must-see. The View from the Cliffs of Magho loop from Drumcrow West is a relatively short but steep hike that takes you directly to the highly-regarded viewpoint overlooking the lough and surrounding landscape.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs, but they should be kept on a lead, especially in nature reserves and areas with livestock. The Cladagh Glen National Nature Reserve is a popular spot for dog walkers, known for its beautiful woodland paths. Always check local signage at the trailhead for specific rules.

Yes, many of the best walks in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example of a moderate circular route is the Meenameen Lough – Old Man's Head loop from Braade, which offers varied terrain and lovely lough views.

Most trailheads in this rural area are best accessed by car. Popular locations like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail and the Cliffs of Magho Viewpoint have dedicated car parks. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as these spots can fill up quickly.

Besides the main trails, there are several well-regarded spots that are favorites among hikers:

• Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail: A famous and very popular walk, often called the 'Stairway to Heaven', featuring a long boardwalk across blanket bog and a steep climb to a summit plateau with sweeping views.
• Cliffs of Magho Viewpoint: A spectacular destination offering one of the best panoramic views in the region, accessible via both a scenic drive and several hiking trails.
• Cladagh Glen National Nature Reserve: A beautiful woodland area with riverside paths, perfect for a peaceful and shaded walk.

The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, also known as the 'Stairway to Heaven', is a unique and very popular hike. It begins with a gravel path before transitioning to a long boardwalk that protects the fragile blanket bog ecosystem. The final section is a steep staircase ascending the mountain, leading to a viewing platform with stunning panoramic views. It's a strenuous walk that requires a good level of fitness.

You can find over a dozen curated hiking routes around Rossharbour on komoot. These range from easy lakeside strolls to difficult mountain climbs, offering something for every type of hiker.

The hiking routes around Rossharbour are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning views over Lough Erne, the well-maintained paths on popular trails like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, and the peaceful atmosphere of the forest walks.

Yes, you can combine hiking with a bit of history. The Castle Caldwell Forest is home to the ruins of a 17th-century castle. For something more ancient, the pre-Christian Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are located nearby on Boa Island, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's deep past.