The best walks and hikes around Rossclare
4.3
(14)
124
hikers
14
hikes
Hiking around Rossclare offers a diverse landscape characterized by castle estates, peaceful woodlands, and waterfront paths. The region features rolling countryside hills and natural ponds, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Trails often lead through historic grounds and forested areas, with some routes offering views of water bodies. The area's physical features include gentle elevations and well-established paths suitable for walking.
Best hiking trails around Rossclare
- The most popular hiking route is Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island, a…
Last updated: October 28, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
4.61km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
5.20km
01:22
40m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.28km
01:09
50m
50m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(1)
30
hikers
3.69km
00:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
12.0km
03:10
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Rossclare?
There are over a dozen hiking trails around Rossclare, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community has mapped 14 routes, with 12 rated as easy and 2 as moderate, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Rossclare?
Hiking in Rossclare offers diverse landscapes, including castle estates, peaceful woodlands, and waterfront paths. You'll find rolling countryside hills and natural ponds, with many routes leading through historic grounds and forested areas, often providing views of water bodies like Lower Lough Erne.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Rossclare?
Yes, Rossclare is well-suited for family-friendly walks, with 12 of the 14 routes rated as easy. Trails like Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island and Castle Archdale loop are great options, exploring castle grounds and wooded areas on well-established paths.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I discover along the trails?
Rossclare's trails often lead to fascinating landmarks. You can explore historic sites like Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle. Many routes also offer scenic viewpoints such as Rossmore Point Beacon or View of Tom's Island, providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding lakes and islands.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, several circular routes are available. A popular choice is the Castle Archdale loop, which takes you through castle grounds and wooded areas. Another option is the Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from White Island, offering views of the marina and beacon.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Rossclare?
The trails in Rossclare are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the historical charm of the castle estates.
Are there any moderate difficulty hikes for a bit more challenge?
Yes, for those seeking a slightly longer and more challenging experience, there are moderate routes available. The Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop from Lisnarrick is a moderate 12 km (7.5 miles) trail that takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete, offering a more extensive exploration of the area.
What is the typical duration for hikes in Rossclare?
Hikes in Rossclare vary in duration depending on the route and your pace. Many easy trails, such as Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle (5.2 km), can be completed in around 1 hour 20 minutes. Longer, moderate routes can take over 3 hours.
Are there any trails that offer views of water or lakes?
Absolutely. Many trails in Rossclare provide beautiful views of water bodies. The region is characterized by waterfront paths and natural ponds. You can find excellent vistas of Lower Lough Erne and its islands from various points, including highlights like View of Lower Lough Erne and Islands.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails?
The terrain around Rossclare generally features gentle elevations and well-established paths. You'll walk through a mix of castle estates, peaceful woodlands, and some waterfront sections. The paths are typically suitable for walking, offering varied but manageable surfaces.
Is there information available about public transport or parking for the trails?
While specific public transport details for individual trailheads are not provided in this guide, many trails are accessible within the Rossclare area. For general information on local walking trails and potentially transport options, you might find resources on the local tourism website, such as visitrosslareharbour.ie. Parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails within castle estates and nature reserves.
Are there any trails that pass through significant natural reserves or areas for wildlife spotting?
While specific wildlife spotting details for each trail are not listed, the broader Rosslare region is home to the Raven Nature Reserve, an internationally important site for bird species. Many woodland and lakeside trails within Rossclare offer opportunities for nature observation, especially in areas like Necarne Woods or around Tom's Island.
Most popular routes around Rossclare
Most popular attractions around Rossclare
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