Lakes around Cloghinny are situated within the broader Newry and Mourne region, an area known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The landscape features rolling hills, including Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, which frame several notable bodies of water. This geographical area offers a mix of mountain lakes and larger loughs, providing diverse natural features for exploration. Cloghinny serves as a base for accessing these natural attractions in County Armagh.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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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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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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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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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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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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The Cloghinny area, within the broader Newry and Mourne region, features several picturesque lakes. Key examples include Camlough Lake, known for its tranquil waters between Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, and North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which includes the highest lough in Northern Ireland and Bronze Age findings.
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. Excavations there uncovered two stone boxes from the Bronze Age. Additionally, Glasdrumman Lough is part of the Poets Trail, which explains the history of O'Neill Castle.
The lakes are set amidst rolling hills, including Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. You'll find diverse landscapes from tranquil loughs like Camlough Lake, which reflects the surrounding hills, to high-altitude loughs such as Calliagh Beara Lough, nestled between ancient burial cairns.
Yes, Camlough Lake is noted as family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting for visitors. Glasdrumman Lough is also considered family-friendly and features an information panel about the Poets Trail, combining nature with local history.
The area around Cloghinny's lakes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the Giant's Lair Trail or the Slieve Gullion Summit loop. For more challenging hikes, consider routes like the Slieve Gullion loop from Forkhill Road. There are also running trails available, such as the Slieve Gullion running loop. You can explore more options on the Easy hikes around Cloghinny, Hiking around Cloghinny, and Running Trails around Cloghinny guide pages.
Yes, several trails offer views of or pass by the lakes. For instance, the Poets Trail runs alongside Glasdrumman Lough. The Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop is a popular moderate hike that takes you past Calliagh Beara Lough. You can find more details on the Hiking around Cloghinny guide.
Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. For example, the calm, still waters of Camlough Lake are often highlighted for their peaceful atmosphere, ideal for cycling or simply enjoying the views. The mystical feel and sweeping views from North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough are also highly valued.
Yes, cycling along the narrow roads around Camlough Lake is a popular activity. The roads are generally not very busy, allowing for a relaxed ride while enjoying the serene waters and surrounding hills.
While specific crowd levels can vary, the region offers many peaceful spots. Camlough Lake is often described as tranquil, offering a sense of serenity. For a more remote feel, the high-altitude Calliagh Beara Lough on Slieve Gullion provides a quiet atmosphere amidst ancient landscapes.
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer milder weather, ideal for hiking and cycling, with lush green landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the surrounding hills. While specific details for each lake vary, clear days are best for enjoying the reflective waters and panoramic views.
Many of the lakes offer excellent photographic opportunities. Camlough Lake is a picturesque viewpoint, especially when its calm waters reflect the surrounding hills. Glasdrumman Lough also provides scenic views, with green hills framing the water. The elevated position of North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough offers sweeping vistas.


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