Top 5 Lakes around Derrywilligan
Lakes around Derrywilligan are found in a rural setting within County Armagh, Northern Ireland, offering access to broader natural landscapes. While Derrywilligan itself does not host prominent named lakes, its location provides proximity to areas like the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visitors can explore nearby forest parks that feature various water bodies. This region is characterized by its peaceful environment and natural beauty.
Best lakes around Derrywilligan
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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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Bessbrook Pond
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes and water bodies can I explore near Derrywilligan?
While Derrywilligan itself is a rural townland without prominent named lakes, its location provides easy access to diverse water bodies. You can find mountain lakes like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, tranquil loughs such as Camlough Lake, and peaceful village ponds like Bessbrook Pond.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes in the area?
Yes, North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is a significant historical site. It features a Bronze Age cairn where two stone boxes were found during excavations, adding a layer of ancient history to the natural beauty of the mountain lake.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Derrywilligan?
The lakes are often set within scenic landscapes. For instance, Camlough Lake is nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, offering tranquil waters and picturesque views. Calliagh Beara's Lough is notable as the highest lough in Northern Ireland, located on Slieve Gullion's ridge.
Are there family-friendly options for visiting lakes near Derrywilligan?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Camlough Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a tranquil setting. Bessbrook Pond, located in the heart of Bessbrook village, is ideal for a peaceful waterside stroll with paths suitable for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region around Derrywilligan offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond' near Bessbrook Pond. For more options, explore the hiking guides or cycling guides for Derrywilligan.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes, and what is their difficulty?
Yes, there are hiking trails available. For instance, an easy loop around Bessbrook Pond is approximately 4.3 km. More challenging routes can be found in the Slieve Gullion area, which hosts mountain lakes. You can find detailed information on various routes and their difficulty in the hiking guides for Derrywilligan.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Derrywilligan?
The region is generally peaceful year-round. Spring and summer offer milder weather, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the lush landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a serene, quiet experience, though some paths might be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Are the lakes and trails dog-friendly?
Many natural areas and trails around the lakes are dog-friendly, especially in forest parks like Gosford Forest Park and Slieve Gullion Forest Park. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife or livestock, and to clean up after them.
What amenities are available near the lakes?
Amenities vary by location. Near Bessbrook Pond, you are in the heart of Bessbrook village, so local shops and cafes are accessible. For more remote lakes like those on Slieve Gullion, amenities are limited, so it's best to come prepared with water and snacks. Newry city, being close to Derrywilligan, offers a wider range of services.
Can I find less crowded lakes or quiet spots for reflection?
The rural nature of Derrywilligan and its surrounding areas means many spots offer tranquility. Camlough Lake, with its narrow, elongated shape nestled between hills, provides a peaceful setting. Exploring the less-trafficked paths in the broader Mourne Mountains or Ring of Gullion AONB can also lead to quiet discoveries.
What are some scenic viewpoints around the lakes?
The summit of Slieve Gullion, where North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough is located, offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Camlough Lake also provides picturesque vistas of the water framed by the Slieve Gullion and Ring of Gullion hills.
Is wild swimming permitted in any of the lakes?
While the region offers many beautiful water bodies, specific regulations for wild swimming can vary. It's crucial to check local signage and guidelines for each lake or lough before entering the water, as safety and environmental considerations are paramount.
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