Fermanagh Lakelands

Fermanagh is Ireland's lake district - one-third of the county is water. This route circles Upper and Lower Lough Erne, revealing islands, castles, ancient monasteries, and a landscape shaped by water at every turn.

Why This Route?

Fermanagh offers unique experiences:

• Island hopping - Over 150 islands to explore
• Water activities - Cruising, kayaking, fishing
• Ancient sites - Early Christian monasteries on remote islands
• Castle heritage - Plantation castles and Gaelic strongholds
• Peaceful pace - One of Ireland's quietest corners

Where to Stay

This 112km route circles Upper and Lower Lough Erne with Enniskillen as its island hub, radiating out to Castle Coole, Florence Court, Marble Arch Caves, Belleek, and Devenish Island. With two days recommended and all roads leading back through Enniskillen, a single base in the town works perfectly -- you can explore one lough per day and return each evening.

Enniskillen

Enniskillen sits on an island between the two loughs, making it the geographic and practical centre of every journey in Fermanagh. Castle Coole is a ten-minute drive, Florence Court and Marble Arch Caves lie to the southwest, and the Devenish Island ferry departs from nearby Trory Point. Hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants cluster along the main street and waterfront.

The Lakes

Lough Erne is actually two connected lakes:

• Upper Lough Erne - A maze of islands and channels
• Lower Lough Erne - A broad, open lake

Together, they form the largest waterway system in Northern Ireland.

The Route

Starting from Enniskillen

Begin in Fermanagh's island capital - Enniskillen sits between the two loughs on an island. Don't miss:

• Enniskillen Castle - Two museums in a Plantation-era fortress
• Cole's Monument - Climb for panoramic views
• Town centre - Excellent independent shops and cafes

Devenish Island

Take the ferry from Trory Point to this remarkable monastic site. Founded in the 6th century, Devenish has a perfectly preserved round tower, ruined abbey, and atmospheric graveyard. One of Ireland's most important early Christian sites.

Castle Coole

A National Trust property with Ireland's finest neoclassical house. The interiors are stunning, and the parkland is perfect for walks. Watch for the famous greylag geese on the lake.

Florence Court

Another National Trust gem - a beautiful 18th-century mansion with walled gardens and extensive forest walks. The original Irish yew tree (mother of all Irish yews worldwide) grows here.

Cuilcagh Mountain

The distinctive flat-topped "sleeping giant" mountain dominates the skyline. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk trail is one of Ireland's most popular walks (see separate listing).

Belleek

Famous for its fine china, the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre offers tours and a museum. The village sits right on the border with Donegal.

Boa Island

Connected by bridges, this island contains the mysterious Janus Stone - a two-faced Celtic idol from the early Christian period. One of Ireland's most enigmatic archaeological finds.

Castle Archdale

A forest park on the lough shore with bike trails, nature walks, and WWII history. Flying boats operated from here during the Battle of the Atlantic. Boats to White Island (with its strange carved figures) depart from the marina.

Water Activities

Boat Trips

• Devenish Island Ferry - From Trory Point
• Erne Tours - Cruises from Enniskillen Round "O" Jetty
• White Island Ferry - From Castle Archdale

Kayaking & Canoeing

The maze of islands on Upper Lough Erne is ideal for paddling. Several operators offer guided trips and rentals.

Fishing

Lough Erne is renowned for coarse fishing - pike, bream, and roach. Game fishing for trout is also available.

Island Highlights

Must-Visit Islands

• Devenish - Round tower and monastic ruins
• White Island - Mysterious carved figures
• Boa Island - Janus Stone

Private Islands

Several islands have holiday accommodation - a unique way to experience Fermanagh.

Practical Tips

1. Book island ferries in advance during peak season
2. Bring binoculars - Birdwatching is excellent
3. Weather affects boat services - Have a backup plan
4. Castle Coole and Florence Court - Allow half a day each
5. Enniskillen has the best facilities - Good base for the route

Before You Drive This Route

At 112km the Fermanagh Lakelands looks like a 2.5 hours drive on paper. Allow 2 days and you will actually see it. The Irish driving rules and road signs guide covers speed limits, signage and the penalty points system, which is worth ten minutes before you set off. This one is entirely in Northern Ireland, so there are no tolls and distances are signed in miles rather than kilometres; the Irish toll roads guide covers the border crossing if you are driving up from the Republic. Most visitors hire at the airport; our guide to renting a car in Ireland covers deposits, excess and what to check before you drive off the lot. More drives in the same corner of the country are on the County Fermanagh page, and the Marble Arch & Cuilcagh pairs naturally with this one.