In Fermanagh you can almost literally reach for the stars of heaven and descend into the very depths in just one afternoon. And that’s all without getting wet! If you’re also prepared for a splash, then the world really is your oyster in the heart of the lakelands.
Cuilcagh Mountain and Marble Arch Caves
Let’s start at the top, the very top. Cuilcagh Mountain is the highest point in County Fermanagh and so has a commanding, panoramic view of the lakes, the river and far into the distance. It’s the ascent to that summit where things get really interesting and exciting.
Nicknamed the ‘Stairway to Heaven’, the timbered Legnabrocky trail to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain is a wonder of foresight and compassion for nature, as well as a fair challenge for walkers and strollers, young and old. Originally installed to protect the blanket bog and mountain flanks from pounding boots and shoes, it’s become a magnet for locals and visitors and has recently become an Instagram rival to some of Northern Ireland’s most snapped and papped locations. Now that’s really saying something in the land of the Giant’s Causeway, Titanic and Game of Thrones®.
Just a few steps away in a UNESCO Global Geopark are the Marble Arch Caves, with some of the most impressive show caves in Europe. Unexplored until little over a century ago, these caves feature stalactites, cavernous passages, underground pools and streams which have been formed and reformed as the water slowly dissolved the limestone bedrock over countless millennia. Explore the extensive subterranean world on foot and by boat with a guided tour and you’ll discover more about geology, geography and archaeology than Indiana Jones himself ever did.
If that descent from the stairs of heaven down to the cavernous wonderland leaves you breathless with wonder, it might just be the right time to step down a gear and back in time.
Castle Coole, Crom Estate and Florence Court
This clutch of National Trust treasure houses are a real retreat. Castle Coole in Enniskillen is one of Ireland's finest neo-classical houses, the former home of the Earls of Belmore, set in magnificent, woodland estate. Designed by James Wyatt, its simple, classical façade of Portland stone belies the well-appointed splendour that reveals itself the moment you step inside. Take an ‘upstairs downstairs’ tour around the house with one of their experienced guides. Learn about the vast underground basement, servant quarters and wine cellar which contrast the lavish rooms upstairs.
The 2,000 acre Crom Estate sits on the shores of Upper Lough Erne and is a haven for wildlife and the natural world. It’s a dreamy, chilled out and romantic kind of place, where nature has reclaimed much of the lakeshore. There’s an award-winning visitor centre to visit, but the most rewarding time here is spent wandering the trails and shore where all sorts of creatures roam, from pine martins and otters to grey herons, sparrowhawks and buzzards. Take to the water by hiring a boat for an even more immersive experience.
Florence Court is a short drive or a longish cycle from Enniskillen. Prepare to be wowed by many of its exquisite and ornate features. Aside from the main residence itself, there’s a plethora of outbuildings, summer houses, lodges, pleasure gardens, walled gardens and more to explore. Make time for many of the 18th century light industry exhibitions which have been well preserved, such as the working watermill, tilery, hydraulic ram and forge.
Pottering about in Belleek
Founded more than 150 years ago, Belleek Pottery is Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery with a national and international reputation for craftsmanship and design excellence. View some of the special pieces which have helped make its name over the years, as well as seeing today’s potters hard at work in the workshop on a guided tour. Browse and buy the contemporary collection in the on-site shop, and there’s a beautiful tea room here too.
Take to the waterway, your way
There’s no getting away from the water in Fermanagh and it’s really easy to find an adventure or activity that suits you. Once you take to the water you’ll discover a whole new angle on Co. Fermanagh to inspire and enjoy.
Ask Barry from the luxury Erne Water Taxi to pick you up. Your tour guide will help you explore the history of Lough Erne. Make the experience extra special by taking a food tour and sampling delicious, local, artisan specialities. Hop aboard and enjoy the freedom of the lakes, with a stop at Devenish Island, the famous sixth century monastic site.
Hire a cruiser from Carrick Craft in Bellanaleck to explore the Shannon-Erne Waterway and both Upper and Lower Lough Erne. For shorter exploratory trips, hiring a kayak or canoe is a great way to paddle around the backwaters and bays with nothing but the gentle drip-drip of lake water from paddle blades to disturb the peace and the abundance of wildlife.
The Enniskillen Water Activity Zone is your one stop shop for water sports and if you want to captain your own boat and enjoy a short trip around Ireland's only island town at your own pace, why not hire one of the 'wee red boats' from Erne Boat Hire?
There’s no getting away from it, when it comes to things to do and see, County Fermanagh is literally drowning in options.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable.
