Best lakes around Drumalane are situated in a region characterized by rolling hills and natural waterways, offering diverse outdoor experiences. This area, close to the Ring of Gullion, features a landscape shaped by ancient geological processes and dotted with various loughs. Visitors can explore tranquil waters nestled between hills and discover historical sites. The natural environment provides opportunities for quiet contemplation and active exploration.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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There is something magical about the landscape - on the left the towering hills reaching up into the sky, on the right the calm water shimmering in the light. The road winds along the coast, picturesque and with a touch of wildness that is so rarely found. The air smells fresh and slightly salty, and the constant wind from the water gives the route a refreshing note.
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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This peaceful pond located in the heart of the village of Bessbrook is an ideal place for a waterside stroll along its paths.
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Beautiful road leading in or out of Warrenpoint. Good road surface and great views on all sides.
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Camlough Lake The often calm, tranquil waters of Cam Lough stretch for just over two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters for the fisherman and marks a break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion.
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The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is somewhat smaller than the South Cairn; it measures about 18 meters in diameter. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were found in the hill. Right next to it is the "Calliagh Beara's Lough" on top of the ridge.
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Visitors frequently enjoy North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which combines a summit and a natural monument with a tranquil lake. Another favorite is Camlough Lake, known for its peaceful setting between the hills of Slieve Gullion.
Yes, the area around North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. It features a Bronze Age cairn, where two ancient stone boxes were discovered, adding a layer of mysticism to the natural beauty.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy loops like the Bessbrook War Memorial loop around Bessbrook Pond. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes and challenging MTB trails that explore the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely. Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond is an ideal spot for a waterside stroll along its paths, perfect for families. The View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road also offers great views suitable for all ages.
Calliagh Beara Lough, situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Yes, you can enjoy walks around Camlough Lake. The roads along its shore are not very busy, allowing for relaxed cycling or walking while taking in the tranquil waters and surrounding hills of Slieve Gullion.
The lakes offer diverse and scenic views. From Calliagh Beara's Lough, you can see the sky reflected in its calm waters. Camlough Lake provides vistas of rolling hills. For expansive coastal views, the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road offers stunning panoramas of the lough and towering hills.
Yes, Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, features easy paths perfect for a waterside stroll. It's a peaceful spot for a relaxed walk.
The lakes around Drumalane are unique for their blend of natural beauty and historical significance. They range from high-altitude loughs like Calliagh Beara Lough, nestled between ancient cairns, to tranquil waters like Camlough Lake, set against the backdrop of the Ring of Gullion. This area offers a variety of settings for both active exploration and quiet reflection.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere for taking a break or simply letting their gaze wander over the water. The blend of natural landscapes with historical elements, such as the Bronze Age cairn near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, also adds to the appeal.
While the guide focuses on specific lakes around Drumalane, the broader region, particularly around Lough Erne (a significant body of water near Drumkeeran), offers extensive opportunities for water activities. These include hiring kayaks, paddleboards, boats, and even hydrobikes, allowing visitors to explore numerous islands and the expansive watery landscape.


Still not found your perfect lake around Drumalane? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.