The best walks and hikes around Upper Lough Erne

There are over 15 hiking trails around Upper Lough Erne, catering to various preferences. The majority, 14 out of 15, are rated as easy, making the area very accessible for most hikers.

Yes, Upper Lough Erne is particularly well-suited for easy hikes. Out of the 15 available routes, 14 are classified as easy, offering gentle paths through woodlands and along the lough's shores. These trails are perfect for leisurely walks and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking around Upper Lough Erne offers a unique blend of winding waterways, numerous islands, and expansive ancient woodlands set within a distinctive drumlin landscape. You'll encounter serene lake views, old sessile oak woods, and wetlands, all contributing to a rich natural environment.

Many of the trails in Upper Lough Erne are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty. For instance, the Crom Estate Trail is a 2.5-mile easy path offering scenic views and historical points of interest within the 1,900-acre Crom Estate, making it ideal for a family outing.

The region is rich in history. Within the Crom Estate, you can explore the elegant 17th-century Crom Castle, the Crom Castle Boathouse, and the atmospheric Old Crom Castle Ruins. Trails like the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) will guide you past these significant historical landmarks.

Yes, several circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) is an easy 4.5-mile circular path, and the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) is another popular 2.6-mile loop through ancient woodlands.

Upper Lough Erne is an important conservation area, home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot wild deer, pine martens, and red squirrels. The area also supports all eight species of native bats and rare bird species like whooper swans, mute swans, and cormorants, especially within the ancient woodlands and wetlands.

Absolutely. With 14 out of 15 routes classified as easy, Upper Lough Erne is an excellent destination for beginner hikers. The trails generally feature gentle elevations and well-maintained paths, providing a comfortable and enjoyable introduction to hiking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful setting, the scenic water views, and the opportunity to explore historical sites like the Crom Estate. Many appreciate the accessibility of the easy trails.

Yes, Upper Lough Erne boasts significant ancient woodlands, including important stands of old sessile oak woods. The 1,900-acre Crom Estate, managed by the National Trust, is particularly renowned for its 2,000 acres of ancient woodland and countryside, which are considered vital conservation areas.

Hikes in Upper Lough Erne vary in length, but many easy routes can be completed in a few hours. For example, the Crom Estate Trail takes about 1 hour, while the longer Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) typically takes around 2 hours.

Yes, the intricate waterways of Upper Lough Erne make it an ideal location for other outdoor activities. You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, boating, and fishing. Equipment rentals and lessons are often available, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.