Best lakes around Clonlum are found within the Ring of Gullion, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Northern Ireland. This region is characterized by its volcanic landscape, offering diverse habitats and scenic views. Clonlum itself is situated at the foot of Slieve Gullion, providing access to a network of walking trails and natural features. The area is known for its outdoor activities and cultural heritage, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 2, 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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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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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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Visitors frequently enjoy North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, a mountain lake next to an ancient Bronze Age cairn. Another highly regarded spot is Camlough Lake, known for its water sports and tranquil setting between the hills of Slieve Gullion.
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is located next to a Bronze Age cairn where ancient stone boxes were found. The lough itself is steeped in local folklore, said to be the home of the witch Beara. Additionally, Glasdrumman Lough is part of the Poets' Trail, which shares the history of the region, including O'Neill Castle.
The lakes around Clonlum are primarily glacial ribbon lakes and mountain loughs, nestled within the volcanic Ring of Gullion. You'll find diverse habitats, clear waters, and picturesque views. For example, Camlough Lake is bordered by lush woodlands and sweeping countryside, home to wildlife like Grey Herons and Mute Swans.
Yes, Camlough Lake offers family picnic areas, lakeside seating, and children's play equipment. It's also a great spot for leisurely walks. Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is another peaceful spot ideal for a waterside stroll with family.
Camlough Lake is a hub for water sports, popular with swimmers, canoeists, kayakers, and open-water athletes. It also hosts events like the Camlough Lake Water Festival. The lake is also well-stocked for freshwater fishing, particularly for pike, bream, and perch.
Yes, the lakes are integral to the Ring of Gullion, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which offers extensive scenic trails. Lakeside walking trails around Camlough Lake provide peaceful routes. For more extensive options, you can explore running trails in the area, including routes like the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Camlough Lake'. Find more details on these routes in the Running Trails around Clonlum guide.
Absolutely. The roads around Camlough Lake are suitable for cycling, offering tranquil views. The wider region provides various cycling routes, such as the 'Ring of Gullion loop from Newry'. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Clonlum guide.
Calliagh Beara Lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, holds the distinction of being the highest lake in Northern Ireland. It is situated within the Slieve Gullion area, close to Clonlum.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for walks and cycling, the opportunities for water sports at Camlough Lake, and the mystical element of sites like Calliagh Beara's Lough. The sweeping views and diverse wildlife are also frequently highlighted.
While specific MTB trails directly at the lakes might be limited, the broader region around Clonlum offers mountain biking opportunities. Routes like 'Newry, Carnavaddy and Annaloughan Mountain loop' provide challenging rides. Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Clonlum guide.
Yes, facilities around Camlough Lake include practical comforts like family picnic areas, which often come with associated parking. For other lakes, parking availability may vary, but general access points for trails in the Ring of Gullion typically have designated parking areas.


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