Top 6 Lakes around Aughnahoory

Visitors frequently enjoy the serene beauty of Blue Lough, nestled in a wide trough valley. Another highly regarded spot is Silent Valley Reservoir, known for its stunning scenery in the Mourne Mountains AONB. For a unique experience, Sandy beach at Lough Shanna offers a surprising sandy shore high in the mountains.

Yes, Silent Valley Duck Pond is particularly family-friendly, offering a gentle spot with picnic benches and a kids' play park. The broader Silent Valley area also provides well-kept paths suitable for family strolls.

The lakes around Aughnahoory offer diverse natural beauty. You'll find tranquil mountain lakes like Blue Lough, vast reservoirs such as Silent Valley Reservoir with its sweeping granite peaks, and even a unique sandy beach at Lough Shanna. The region is characterized by impressive mountain views and peaceful, natural settings.

The area around Aughnahoory's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, such as the 'Wee Binnian' or routes around Silent Valley, which you can explore further in the Easy hikes around Aughnahoory guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes like 'The Head Road Route' available in the Cycling around Aughnahoory guide. Running trails are also plentiful, as detailed in the Running Trails around Aughnahoory guide.

Silent Valley Reservoir is highly suitable for walking, offering picturesque routes amidst stunning scenery. It's known for its tranquil atmosphere, nestled between Slieve Binnian and Slieve Muck. Key features include well-kept paths, beautiful gardens, and an insight into Northern Ireland's engineering heritage, including the impressive Mourne Wall and the Binnian Tunnel. It's an ideal spot for serenity and impressive mountain views.

Camlough Lake is picturesquely located between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. It is particularly known for its rich fishing waters, containing species like bitterling, common carp, brown trout, and pike. The tranquil surroundings also make it a great place for cycling along its shores or enjoying a quiet break. For more on fishing, you can visit visitmournegullionstrangford.com.

Yes, Calliagh Beara Lough holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. It is located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, offering a unique high-altitude lake experience and stunning panoramic views for hikers exploring the mountain.

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion area, where many of these lakes are located, is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures ideal for walking and cycling. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape, while winter can provide a dramatic, serene experience, though some paths may be boggy, requiring appropriate footwear.

While not immediately adjacent to Aughnahoory, Lough Neagh is a significant natural landmark in Northern Ireland and is accessible for a day trip. As the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, it offers opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and boasts a rich history and folklore. Facilities for camping, caravanning, and boat trips are available at locations like Kinnego Marina and Antrim Lough Shore Park. You can learn more about its significance on Wikipedia.

For a peaceful and less-trafficked spot, Red Bog Pond is a nice and tranquil place. It features a bench perfect for resting and watching wildlife, offering a quiet escape for those looking to enjoy nature away from more popular areas.

Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and impressive natural beauty of the region's lakes. Many enjoy the opportunity to pause and take in the scenery, whether it's the sweeping mountain views at Silent Valley, the peaceful atmosphere of Blue Lough, or the unique experience of a sandy beach high in the mountains at Lough Shanna. The variety of experiences, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, is also highly valued.

While specific public transport routes directly to all individual lakes can be limited, major towns in the Newry, Mourne and Down district, such as Kilkeel, often have bus services. From these points, you may need to consider local taxis or walking to reach some of the more remote lake locations like Silent Valley Reservoir or Camlough Lake. Planning ahead is recommended.