County Fermanagh, in the north’s lakeland, offers a delightful blend of serene waters, historic sites, and natural beauty for travellers seeking a peaceful escape. With its shimmering lakes, rolling hills, and ancient landmarks, this county provides a rich array of experiences. From tranquil boat trips to historic castles and underground caves, Fermanagh invites visitors to discover its treasures at a leisurely pace.
Lough Erne, a sprawling network of two connected lakes, is the county’s centrepiece, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can hire boats to explore the lake’s 154 islands, many home to ancient ruins like Devenish Island’s 6th-century monastic site, complete with a round tower and ornate cross. Guided tours and self-guided trips allow exploration of the waterways, with scenic shores perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting.
Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress by the River Erne, houses two museums showcasing Fermanagh’s history. The castle’s stone walls and turrets invite visitors to explore its military past, while the Fermanagh County Museum displays artefacts from prehistoric tools to local crafts. The nearby town of Enniskillen offers riverside walks and cosy pubs, creating a welcoming base for discovery.
Marble Arch Caves, part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, offer a fascinating underground adventure near Florencecourt. Guided tours lead through limestone caverns with stalactites, stalagmite columns, and an underground river, accessible by boat. Visitors can marvel at the natural formations, with informative guides sharing the caves’ geological story, making it a rewarding stop for families and adventurers.
Florence Court, an 18th-century Georgian mansion, is set within a 3,000-hectare estate of parkland and forest. Managed by the National Trust, the house offers guided tours of its elegant interiors, featuring rococo plasterwork and period furnishings. Visitors can wander the walled garden, explore woodland trails, and enjoy the tearoom’s homemade treats, blending history with natural beauty.
Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, straddling Fermanagh and Cavan, is a haven for walkers and nature lovers. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, known as the Stairway to Heaven, leads to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain, offering panoramic views across the lakes and hills. Visitors can hike the 11km trail, spotting wildflowers and boglands, with accessible boardwalks ensuring a comfortable journey for all.
Belleek Pottery, one of Ireland’s oldest working potteries, welcomes visitors to its heritage centre in Belleek village. Guided tours reveal the craft of hand-decorating fine porcelain, with a museum showcasing intricate designs. Visitors can browse the showroom, enjoy a coffee in the café, and try their hand at pottery painting, creating a unique keepsake.
Castle Coole, a neoclassical masterpiece near Enniskillen, offers a glimpse into 18th-century grandeur. Managed by the National Trust, the mansion’s guided tours showcase opulent state rooms and a preserved servants’ tunnel. The 600-hectare estate includes lakeside walks and a walled garden, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to explore at their own pace.
Lough Navar Forest, near Derrygonnelly, spans 2,600 hectares of woodland and lakes, with scenic drives and walking trails. The Magho Cliffs viewpoint offers sweeping vistas over Lower Lough Erne and Donegal, ideal for photographers. Visitors can hike trails, spot deer and birds, or enjoy a quiet picnic, making it a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Devenish Island, accessible by ferry from Trory near Enniskillen, is a historic monastic site founded in the 6th century. Visitors can explore its round tower, high cross, and medieval church ruins, with guided tours sharing tales of its monastic past. The island’s serene setting on Lough Erne makes it a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
Ely Lodge Forest, along Lough Erne’s shores, offers tranquil trails through ancient woodlands. Visitors can walk or cycle paths, spotting otters and kingfishers, with views of the lake’s islands. The forest’s quiet beauty and picnic areas make it an inviting destination for families and those seeking a calm escape.
County Fermanagh’s mix of lakeland beauty, historic landmarks, and natural wonders creates a rewarding destination. Whether cruising Lough Erne, exploring ancient caves, or wandering Georgian estates, travellers will find plenty to enjoy.
County Fermanagh:
Ireland’s county Fermanagh is a county of lakes and historic charm, with Lough Erne’s waterways offering boating and fishing amidst serene islands. Enniskillen Castle and its museums explore local history, while the Marble Arch Caves, part of a UNESCO Geopark, showcase stunning underground caverns. Other attractions include the historic Florence Court estate and its gardens. Fermanagh is Ireland’s 20th largest county by size (1,876 square km) and fourth smallest by population (63,585). Population peaked at 156,481 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 49,886 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Fermanagh is Ireland’s 28th most visited tourist county with around 43,000 international visitors per year.
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