Top 6 Lakes around Fathom Lower
Lakes around Fathom Lower are characterized by their tranquil waters nestled within a landscape of rolling hills and historical sites. This region features mountain lakes, some with ancient cairns nearby, and larger loughs offering scenic views. The area provides opportunities for waterside strolls and observing natural rock formations. The lakes are often found amidst a unique cliff-edge ecosystem, providing diverse natural beauty.
Best lakes around Fathom Lower
- The most popular lakes is North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Camlough Lake
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Calliagh Beara Lough
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View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road
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Bessbrook Pond
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Fathom Lower?
The komoot community highly appreciates several lakes in the Fathom Lower region. Among them, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough stands out for its blend of natural beauty and ancient history, featuring Bronze Age stone boxes next to a mountain lake. Another favorite is Camlough Lake, known for its tranquil waters stretching over two kilometers between the hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Fathom Lower area?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering calm waters and scenic views ideal for a relaxed outing. Additionally, Bessbrook Pond provides peaceful waterside strolls along its paths, perfect for all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The Fathom Lower region is characterized by a unique cliff-edge ecosystem, rolling hills, and diverse water bodies. You'll find mountain lakes, peaceful ponds, and large loughs. The area is known for ancient rock formations and offers opportunities to observe the natural beauty of the landscape, including the highest lough in Northern Ireland, Calliagh Beara Lough, nestled between the burial cairns of Slieve Gullion.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, the region is rich in history. The area around North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features Bronze Age stone boxes within the cairn, offering a glimpse into ancient times. The loughs themselves, like Calliagh Beara Lough, are often situated near ancient burial cairns, adding a layer of historical significance to the natural landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Fathom Lower?
The Fathom Lower area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails ranging from easy to moderate, with options like the 'Fathom Wood loop' or 'Clermont & Clontygora loop'. For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes such as 'The Old Oak Tree – Fairy Glen loop' and road cycling routes like 'Warrenpoint, Rostrevor and Mayobridge loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for hiking, gravel biking, and road cycling around Fathom Lower.
Are there hiking trails near these lakes?
Absolutely. The Fathom Lower region provides numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore trails like the 'Fathom Wood loop' which is an easy 7.7 km route, or take on more moderate challenges such as the 'Clermont & Clontygora loop' (13.9 km) or the 'Ring of Gullion and Carlingford Lough Greenway Loop' (18.1 km). For a comprehensive list of routes, visit the Hiking around Fathom Lower guide.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints of the lakes?
Many lakes in the Fathom Lower region offer stunning viewpoints. Camlough Lake is noted for its picturesque setting between the hills, providing excellent views. Additionally, the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road offers expansive vistas of the lough and surrounding landscape, with a refreshing, slightly salty air from the water.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Fathom Lower?
Visitors frequently highlight the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The calm, clear waters of lakes like Camlough Lake provide a peaceful escape. The blend of ancient history with natural landscapes, such as the Bronze Age sites near North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, also captivates many. The opportunity for waterside strolls and the unique cliff-edge ecosystem are often mentioned as key attractions.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes?
While the guide highlights the tranquil waters of the lakes, specific information on designated wild swimming spots is not provided. It's always recommended to check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting wild swimming in any natural body of water.
What is the best season to visit the lakes around Fathom Lower for walks?
The guide does not specify a 'best' season, but the description of rolling hills, tranquil waters, and unique ecosystems suggests that spring and summer would offer pleasant conditions for walks and enjoying the natural beauty. Autumn would likely provide vibrant foliage, while winter might offer a more serene, stark landscape, though weather conditions could be more challenging.
Are there options for dog walks around the Fathom Lower lakes?
The guide mentions waterside strolls and hiking trails, which are generally suitable for dog walking. For instance, the paths around Bessbrook Pond are ideal for a leisurely walk. When walking with dogs, always ensure they are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and adhere to any local signage regarding pet policies.
Are there any accessible trails or facilities near the lakes?
The guide highlights peaceful waterside strolls and paths, such as those at Bessbrook Pond. While specific details on wheelchair accessibility are not provided, these paths may offer easier access for some visitors. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions if accessibility is a primary concern.
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