Lakes around Ballinliss are situated within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and historical sites, offering diverse natural experiences. The region features several loughs, some nestled high in the mountains and others more accessible. These bodies of water contribute to the area's natural beauty and provide opportunities for exploration. The Slieve Gullion area, in particular, is notable for its geological and historical significance.
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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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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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 Ballinliss region features a variety of lakes, from high-altitude loughs nestled in the mountains to more accessible village ponds. You'll find natural lakes like Camlough Lake, which is ideal for quiet contemplation, and mountain lakes such as North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, offering sweeping views.
Yes, the region is rich in history. For example, the area around North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age cairn, adding a sense of mysticism and ancient history to your visit. Calliagh Beara Lough is also located between significant burial cairns on Slieve Gullion.
Absolutely. Bessbrook Pond is a peaceful spot located in the heart of Bessbrook village, perfect for a waterside stroll with the family. Camlough Lake is also considered family-friendly, offering tranquil waters and scenic views.
The lakes around Ballinliss are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with routes like the 'Slieve Gullion loop' or 'Camlough Mountain & Lake loop'. Cycling is also popular, especially around Camlough Lake. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Ballinliss or MTB Trails around Ballinliss guides.
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The Bessbrook Pond offers a pleasant, easy waterside stroll. For other accessible and less strenuous walks, you can find routes like the 'Giant's Lair Trail' or the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' in the Easy hikes around Ballinliss guide.
Calliagh Beara Lough holds the distinction of being the highest lake in Northern Ireland. It is situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, offering a unique high-altitude experience.
Yes, Camlough Lake is a great spot for cycling. The roads around its shores are not heavily trafficked, allowing for a relaxed ride while enjoying the tranquil waters and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
The lakes around Ballinliss can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather ideal for hiking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter provides a serene, mystical atmosphere, especially around the mountain loughs like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough.
Yes, several lakes are known for their views. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, being a summit lake, provides sweeping panoramic views of the landscape. Camlough Lake also offers picturesque vistas of the hills of Slieve Gullion.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. The sense of mysticism and history around sites like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is often highlighted. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Camlough Lake and the easy strolls around Bessbrook Pond are also highly valued.
Yes, there are options for circular walks. For instance, the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' is an easy circular route. You can find more circular hiking options, including those around Slieve Gullion and Camlough Mountain, in the Hiking around Ballinliss guide.


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