Best lakes around Aghayalloge are found within County Armagh, Northern Ireland, an area characterized by its rolling hills, woodlands, and a network of freshwater bodies. While Aghayalloge itself is a townland, the surrounding region offers diverse natural landscapes for exploration. The area is known for its blend of tranquil waters and historical sites, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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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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The area around Aghayalloge, within County Armagh, features a variety of lakes including picturesque freshwater lakes like Camlough Lake, mountain lakes such as Calliagh Beara Lough (the highest lough in Northern Ireland), and smaller ponds like Bessbrook Pond. You'll also find lakes nestled within woodlands, like those in Carnagh Forest.
Yes, Camlough Lake is an excellent choice for families, offering picnic areas, lakeside seating, and children's play equipment. Bessbrook Pond also provides a peaceful setting for waterside strolls. Carnagh Forest Lakes feature a play area and picnic tables, making them suitable for family visits.
Many lakes offer opportunities for various outdoor activities. Camlough Lake is popular for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and open-water athletics. Anglers can enjoy fishing at Camlough Lake, Carnagh Forest Lakes, Lowry's Lake, and Clea Lake. Walking and hiking are popular around most lakes, with trails available at Camlough Lake and within Carnagh Forest.
You can find lakeside walking trails at Camlough Lake and accessible trails within Carnagh Forest. For more extensive hiking, consider routes around Slieve Gullion, which include mountain lakes like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. Explore various hiking options in the area, including easy hikes, by visiting the Easy hikes around Aghayalloge guide or the Hiking around Aghayalloge guide.
Yes, the area is rich in history. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough features a Bronze Age burial site. Clea Lake has been noted for its ancient crannogs (artificial islands). The village of Camlough, near Camlough Lake, is also known for its local culture and folklore, with nearby heritage sites.
Lowry's Lake is a popular fly-fishing destination, regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Camlough Lake also attracts anglers with pike, bream, roach, and perch. Carnagh Forest Lakes permit coarse fishing, and Clea Lake is known for pike and large perch. Remember that a DAERA Coarse or Game Rod Licence and permit are required for fishing in many of these locations for those aged 12 and over.
Clea Lake is a known fishing spot, but it's important to be aware that in October 2023, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) confirmed the presence of blue-green algae. Signage has been erected to inform the public, and precautions should be taken when visiting the area.
While specific cycling trails directly around every lake may vary, the roads around Camlough Lake offer a pleasant cycling experience with scenic views. For more dedicated cycling routes in the broader area, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Aghayalloge guide.
Yes, the area offers several scenic viewpoints. North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough provides sweeping views from its elevated position. Camlough Lake is known for its picturesque setting, and the View of Carlingford Lough from Rostrevor Road offers stunning vistas of the larger lough.
Carnagh Forest Lakes are set within a 115-hectare coniferous woodland, which includes a nature reserve with birch, beech, and ash trees. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful woodland environment and may spot wildfowl and otters in and around the lakes.
Calliagh Beara Lough is notable for being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It is situated between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, adding to its mystical and historical appeal.
Visitors appreciate the blend of tranquility and adventure offered by the lakes. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for walking and cycling, the opportunities for water sports at Camlough Lake, and the rich historical context found at sites like North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. The diverse landscapes, from woodlands to mountain views, are also highly valued.


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