Top 9 Natural Monuments around Drumharriff

The region boasts several unique geological features. Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) leads across impressive moorland to a summit plateau, offering views from 665 meters above sea level. The Cliff Edge of Cuilcagh Mountain itself is composed of limestone rock formed over 300 million years ago. Additionally, the nearby Ring of Gullion, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is centered around Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano, and features the unique Calliagh Beara's Lough, a crater lake.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave in the Burren Forest features megalithic tombs associated with local legends. Similarly, Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones offers an ancient landscape with mythological sacred stones. Slieve Gullion's summit also hosts two ancient burial cairns, including the highest surviving passage grave in Ireland, the South Cairn or Cailleach Beara's House.

For families, Drumharriff Forest offers a gentle looped walk with a unique sculpture trail, providing an engaging experience for all ages. Slieve Gullion Forest Park, located on the slopes of Slieve Gullion, features an Adventure Playpark and the enchanting Giant's Lair children's story trail. Camlough Lake is also ideal for family outings with picnic areas and lakeside walking trails.

Drumharriff Forest provides an accessible and easy looped walk through a conifer plantation, part of which follows an old railway line. Lakeside walking trails around Camlough Lake also offer peaceful and easy routes suitable for a relaxed stroll.

Beyond walking, the region offers diverse outdoor activities. Camlough Lake is a popular spot for water sports like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and open-water swimming. For cycling enthusiasts, you can find various routes, including those for MTB trails, gravel biking, and general cycling, with guides available for routes around Drumharriff.

Yes, Cladagh Glen Waterfall is a notable natural monument featuring a steep-sided gorge lined by ancient ash trees, mystical caves, and beautiful waterfalls. The river valley also has a spectacular arch formed by a collapsed cave roof.

The natural monuments can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring brings vibrant bluebells and wild garlic to places like Cladagh Glen, while autumn offers magical colors in the forests. For hiking, drier months generally provide better conditions. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is particularly popular, so visiting early in the morning can help avoid crowds.

Camlough Lake is a popular spot for open-water swimming. Its clear and calm waters attract enthusiasts, and it has even held a Guinness World Record for the longest relay swim, making it a well-regarded location for wild swimming.

Visitors frequently appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views from summits like Slieve Gullion and the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail. The blend of ancient history, such as the passage graves on Slieve Gullion and the megalithic tombs at Giant's Grave, combined with diverse walking trails and family-friendly amenities, makes the region appealing. The unique geological features and rich folklore also add to the visitor experience.

Absolutely. Slieve Gullion is steeped in legend, particularly associated with the mythical hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill. The nearby Calliagh Beara's Lough, a crater lake on Slieve Gullion, is famous for the tale of Fionn Mac Cumhaill being tricked by the witch Cailleach Beara, leading to the legend that anyone who bathes in its waters will have their hair turn white. You can read more about the Cailleach Beara here.

The highest lake in Northern Ireland is Calliagh Beara's Lough, also known as the Lake of Sorrows. It is a small, secluded lake situated near the summit of Slieve Gullion, nestled between its ancient northern and southern burial cairns. Its unique position as a crater lake on a mountain summit makes it a compelling natural landmark. More information can be found here.

Yes, the natural monuments offer chances to spot local wildlife. In Slieve Gullion Forest Park, you might spot red squirrels. Cladagh Glen is known for its diverse flora and fauna; with a keen eye, you may spot an elusive pine marten and red squirrels, especially in the ancient ash wood forests.