The best walks and hikes around Drumgamph

The hiking around Drumgamph is set within the Fermanagh Lakelands, a landscape defined by its distinctive drumlins—small, glacially formed hills that create a beautiful, undulating terrain. You can expect to find trails that wind through quiet woodlands, along serene lakeshores, and over rolling green hills.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave is an excellent choice. It's an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) walk through woodlands, making it manageable for most ages and abilities.

Many trails in the wider region are suitable for walking with dogs, but they should generally be kept on a leash, especially near livestock or in sensitive wildlife areas. For a walk where dogs are sometimes allowed off-leash in designated trail sections, the Killashandra Loop Walk in nearby County Cavan is a popular choice among dog owners.

Yes, most of the recommended routes are loops, meaning you start and end in the same place. For a longer circular route, consider the Lough Blocknet loop from Derrygonnelly. This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) trail takes you through forest and past the lake for a comprehensive tour of the local scenery.

The hikes vary in length to suit different schedules. You can find shorter, easy walks that take under two hours, such as the Belmore Forest loop. Most of the moderate trails, like the Cavan Burren Park loop from Blackiron, typically take around 3 hours to complete.

The trails are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of quiet forest paths and scenic lakeside sections. The area is particularly valued for its peaceful atmosphere and the characteristic rolling drumlin landscape of the Fermanagh Lakelands.

The trails immediately around Drumgamph are primarily rated as easy to moderate, focusing on rolling hills rather than steep mountain ascents. For a more strenuous challenge, you could try the Hiking loop from Derrygonnelly, which involves over 300 meters of elevation gain. For a famous regional challenge, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (often called the 'Stairway to Heaven') is a short drive away and features a significant climb.

Many trails offer lovely views over the lakelands and drumlins. For a route that includes a well-known viewpoint, consider The Big Tree loop from Derrygonnelly, which takes you through a forest setting with opportunities for scenic vistas. For some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the wider Fermanagh area, the scenic drive and viewpoint at Lough Navar Forest are highly recommended.

It's wise to be prepared for changeable Irish weather. We recommend waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots, as some paths can be muddy. Also, bring enough water and snacks for your journey. Since the landscape is quite rural, it's a good idea to have your route downloaded for offline use on your phone.

Yes, the main trailheads and forest parks in the region typically have designated car parks. For example, popular starting points like Cavan Burren Park and Belmore Forest have parking available. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends or holidays, as spaces can fill up.

The Fermanagh Lakelands area is rich in activities. You can explore the incredible Marble Arch Caves, a subterranean world of rivers and chambers. The vast Lough Erne offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The region is also home to historic sites like Enniskillen Castle and the monastic ruins on Devenish Island.