Best attractions and places to see around Derreens East encompass a variety of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region features prominent natural landmarks, including mountains with unique boardwalk trails and scenic lakes. Visitors can explore historical castles and estates, offering insights into the area's heritage. This diverse environment provides opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural discovery.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
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Would not regard the Sligo Road from Enniskillen to Belcoo as a cycle friendly road. Extremely poor surface for considerable stretches, very bendy in places too. I live in Enniskillen; have cycled it but would avoid it if at all possible. Cycling via Five Points , on Swanlinbar Road; then via old rail line from old Letterbreen railway station towards Lough MacNean ; or take road from Five Points towards Gortatole is a far more pleasant and safer option.
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Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
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Strenuous but rewarding path on footbridges over the high moor. Pretty well known through insta, so sm best come first thing in the morning
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Lower Lough MacNean, also known as Lough Nilly, is one of two lakes that together form Lough MacNean. Around the circumference of the lake there is a 42 mile (67.6 km) sculpture trail that showcases the rich human history and diverse wildlife around the lake. Lough MacNean lies within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark which preserves the ancient landscapes. The reedbeds, fen peats, wet grasslands and wet woodland are home to diverse mammals, insects, and birds.
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Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a wonderful Georgian mansion surrounded by picturesque countryside. The first house was built by John Cole at the beginning of the 18th century and named after his wife, Florence. The Cole family lived in the house for over 250 years. Today, the estate is managed by the National Trust. There are over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore the grounds. You can visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that reveal the area's industrial heritage. There's also a beautiful Irish yew tree, Florence Court Yew, which is one of two original Irish Yew discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens and forest.
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One of the most popular natural attractions is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), which leads across impressive moorland to a summit plateau. Another significant natural feature is Lower Lough MacNean, known for its sculpture trail and diverse wildlife within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark.
Yes, Enniskillen Castle is a prominent historical site founded in the 15th century, offering insights into Irish rebellions and sieges. Additionally, Florence Court is a magnificent 18th-century country estate with a rich history, now managed by the National Trust.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including the challenging Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop or easier options like the Belmore Forest loop. There are also several road cycling routes, such as the Florence Court loop, and running trails like the Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop. For more details on routes, you can check the Hiking around Derreens East guide.
Absolutely. Both Enniskillen Castle and Florence Court are considered family-friendly. Enniskillen Castle offers a museum to learn about regional history, while Florence Court provides extensive grounds with hiking and bike trails suitable for families.
For the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, you can use the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park. There are multiple parking spaces available, including some reserved for larger vehicles. A parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros is typically required in cash.
Lower Lough MacNean, also known as Lough Nilly, is notable for its 42-mile (67.6 km) sculpture trail that highlights the rich human history and diverse wildlife around the lake. It is situated within the Marble Arch Caves Geopark, preserving ancient landscapes and diverse ecosystems, including reedbeds, fen peats, and wet woodlands.
Yes, there are easy hiking options available. For example, the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave is an easy 6 km trail. You can find more easy routes in the Hiking around Derreens East guide.
For those seeking a challenge, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop offers a difficult 21 km hike. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail itself, while well-laid, is a strenuous but rewarding path across moorland to the summit plateau. More challenging routes can be found in the Hiking around Derreens East guide.
Florence Court is an 18th-century Georgian mansion set amidst lush parkland and woodlands. It's known for its historical significance, beautiful grounds with over 10 miles of hiking and bike trails, a water-powered sawmill, a blacksmith's forge, and the ancient Florence Court Yew tree. It's now managed by the National Trust.
Visitors frequently praise the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail for its excellently laid-out wooden walkway through a wonderful moor landscape. The strenuous climb is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit, leading to a historic Bronze Age burial mound. It's considered a highly rewarding experience despite its difficulty.
Yes, at Florence Court, you can explore a water-powered sawmill and a blacksmith's forge, which reveal aspects of the area's industrial heritage. These sites offer a glimpse into the past working life of the estate.
Yes, there are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. Options include the Florence Court loop from Bellanaleck (approx. 58 km) or the shorter Florence Court – Florence Court loop from Drumlaghy (approx. 39 km). You can find more cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Derreens East guide.


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