Attractions and Places To See around Mullaghmaddy - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Mullaghmaddy include a variety of natural and historical sites. The region features significant geological formations, ancient monuments, and expansive landscapes. Visitors can explore a mix of trails, historical estates, and unique natural features. This area offers opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Mullaghmaddy
- The most popular attractions is Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), a trail that leads across impressive moorland to a summit…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven)
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Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave
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Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
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Florence Court
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Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones
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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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Incredible Stone-Age park, with some technical trails. Massive mythological sacred stones worshipped over centuries, will follow you when adventuring into this unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
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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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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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Many of Ireland’s megalithic monuments—portal tombs, court cairns, or wedge tombs such as this one—are known locally as “the giant’s grave.” But this one, on a hilltop in Co. Cavan’s Burren Forest Park, has a giant story to go along with its name. According to Harold Johnson, from the nearby town of Blacklion, the giant, attempting to impress a lady, failed in his final attempt to jump the nearby chasm, which is, of course, called “The Giant’s Leap.” Harold Johnson relates this story in some detail, while seated on the Giant’s Grave, in the video, below right. Mr. Johnson also was our guide, and provided the narration, for our feature on the Killinagh Cursing Stones, located on the opposite side of the town of Blacklion. (https://voicesfromthedawn.com/burren-giants-grave/)
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main historical attractions around Mullaghmaddy?
The region offers a rich historical tapestry. You can explore ancient megalithic tombs at Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, which are steeped in local legends. Another significant site is Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones, an ancient park featuring mythological sacred stones within a unique geological and archaeological forest landscape. Additionally, the magnificent 18th-century country estate of Florence Court offers insights into the area's industrial heritage with its water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge. Further afield, in Mullagh, County Cavan, you can visit the St Kilian's Heritage Centre, dedicated to the life of St. Kilian, or the Moybolgue Medieval Church Site.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Mullaghmaddy area?
Yes, Florence Court is a great option for families. This historic estate features lush parkland and woodlands with over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails suitable for various ages. It also has a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that can be interesting for children. The Mullagh Hill Walk, starting in Mullagh village, is also suitable for various fitness levels and offers scenic views.
What natural features can I explore around Mullaghmaddy?
The area is rich in natural beauty. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) takes you across impressive moorland to a summit plateau with breathtaking views. Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones is set within a unique geological forest landscape. You can also visit Mullagh Lough, a serene lake perfect for nature lovers, bird watching, and picnicking, or the larger Lough Ramor, known for its biodiversity and water sports.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Mullaghmaddy?
Mullaghmaddy offers a variety of hiking experiences. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) is a strenuous but rewarding path over moorland. Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones features technical trails within its ancient landscape. For more options, you can explore numerous routes, including the Florence Court Red Trail or the Belmore Forest loop, by checking the Hiking around Mullaghmaddy guide.
Are there any accessible routes or facilities for visitors with mobility needs?
While many trails in the region can be challenging, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is noted as wheelchair accessible, serving as an ideal starting point for the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail. However, the boardwalk itself involves steps and is strenuous, so it may not be suitable for all mobility needs. For specific accessible routes, it's always best to check individual attraction details or contact them directly.
Where can I park when visiting the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
The Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is the ideal starting point for the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail. There are three parking spaces available, with some reserved for larger vehicles or motorhomes. A parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward on site.
What outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near these attractions?
Beyond hiking, the area around Mullaghmaddy offers excellent opportunities for running and mountain biking. You can find various running trails, such as the Florence Court Red Trail or the Cuilcagh Mountain Park running loop, detailed in the Running Trails around Mullaghmaddy guide. For mountain biking, explore routes like the Lower Lough Mcnean loop or the Kingfisher Trail, available in the MTB Trails around Mullaghmaddy guide. Mullagh Lough and Lough Ramor also offer opportunities for fishing and bird watching.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Mullaghmaddy?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural landscapes and the sense of achievement from completing trails like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, often described as strenuous but rewarding. The ancient historical sites, such as Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave and Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones, are appreciated for their unique geological and archaeological significance. The overall blend of natural beauty and rich history makes the region a popular destination.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots to discover?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the Killyconny Bog, an important raised bog bordering County Meath, which is part of 'The Living Bog' restoration project and offers unique ecological experiences. The Teampeall Ceallaigh Ruins, located within the Church of Ireland grounds in Mullagh, provide a tangible link to the area's ancient Christian heritage and are a quieter historical site.
What is the best time of year to visit Mullaghmaddy for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, making hiking and exploring more comfortable. However, autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable. Always check the local forecast before your visit.
Can I find cafes or pubs near the main attractions?
While specific cafes and pubs are not directly adjacent to all remote attractions like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, the nearby villages and towns such as Mullagh, Blacklion, and Florencecourt will offer dining options. St Kilian's Heritage Centre in Mullagh, County Cavan, for example, includes a tea room.
Most popular attractions around Mullaghmaddy
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