We’ve experienced the typical Co Fermanagh summer so far this year - all two days of it.
While it hasn’t been a vintage holiday period so far this year weather wise, there’s still plenty of time for a good turn of weather in the weeks ahead.
Whether it’s a relaxing stroll along a riverbank, a hike up a mountain or a ramble through a forest, it's fair to say that Fermanagh has some amazing walks to take advantage of on any nice days we have coming up.
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The county is lucky to have some of the finest landscapes in Northern Ireland and the proximity to the lakelands makes it one of the most picturesque areas of Northern Ireland.
Ranging from mountains, lakes and forests, the county has a variety of walks that will show off some of the best views around.
Here are 10 great walks to get you out in to the fresh air in Fermanagh this summer.
Florencecourt Estate
Walkers will fall in love with the Trails at the Florence Court estate. This stunning 18th century Irish estate serves up sweeping vistas on two spectacular routes designed for walkers of all abilities. Take a gentle stroll around the forest park and pleasure grounds on the 2.2 mile Blue Trail or get more active with the challenge of the 5.6 mile Red Trail.
Lough Navar Magho Cliffs
The more experienced walker can tackle Lough Navar Magho Cliffs, a demanding walk that is well worth the effort. The walk starts with a steep climb made up of around 370 steps but there are benches to take a break to catch your breath and take in the beautiful woodland.
At a height of 300m, the viewpoint offers a bird’s eye view across Lower Lough Erne and as far as the Wild Atlantic Way. The abundance of wildlife is very evident, keep an eye out for the array of butterflies and birds feeding in the area.
Ely Lodge
The loop walk at Ely Lodge Forest Park has a number of different routes, with many different places to stop off, relax and enjoy the amazing view on offer.
The route takes in areas of Lower Lough Erne, providing a great glimpse of the Fermanagh Lakelands over a short distance.
Big Dog Forest
Just outside the town of Derrygonnelly, the Big Dog and Little Dog hills in this forest park are named after Finn McCool’s two Irish wolfhounds, Bran and Skeola.
The two and a half mile walk takes in a variety of wildlife which you could see on your travels, such as red deer and herons.
Castle Archdale Forest Walk
The Castle Archdale Forest Walk is located near the village of Lisnarick. Walkers can stroll along the circular gravel track through thickets of woodland and commercial forest meandering along the course of a woodland river that travels right to Lough Erne. If you are lucky you may spot a kingfisher skimming over the waters in its search for food.
Killykeegan Nature Reserve
Budding archaeologists will enjoy a walk around Killykeegan Nature Reserve. This stunning landscape is dominated by limestone hills that were laid down hundreds of millions of years ago when the landmass, which now forms Fermanagh, was under a tropical sea. Walkers will enjoy delicate woodland flowers and a rich variety of herbs and grasses. You may even be treated to a glimpse of an Irish hare or a stoat darting along the dry stone walls.
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Bellanaleck Shore
A great range of biodiversity awaits on this shore walk near the village of Bellanaleck, with pretty orchids popping up throughout the summer.
It’s quite a peaceful walk and you can admire the huge oak trees which surround the area.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk
The "Stairway to Heaven" as it has been christened has drawn people from near and far to the county with many hoping to get their Instagram game on point for that epic selfie.
Despite its growing popularity however, it’s still a great spot to stretch the legs and get a fantastic aerial view of Co Fermanagh below.
Castle Coole Lake Walk Trail
Take a pleasant, gentle walk around the tranquil Lough Coole, spotting wildlife and glimpses of the mansion house on the way on the Castle Coole Lake Walk Trail . This leisurely stroll will only take 30 minutes and is located just outside of Enniskillen town.
Gortamconnell Viewpoint Walk
Those looking for a shorter stroll will enjoy the Gortamconnell Viewpoint Walk which can be completed in under 30 minutes. The summit of Gortmaconnell Rock, which reveals a breathtaking viewpoint with panoramic views of Cuilcagh Mountain, MacNean Valley, and the Erne Lowlands.
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