Lough Erne

Watersports

Boa Island

White Island

Lough Navar Forest

Castle Archdale Park

Crom Estate

This huge forest clings to the western shore of Lower Lough Erne. The best view is from the top of the Magho cliffs, over 300 metres above sea level. You can see for miles, over the lake's islands and across to County Donegal in Ireland. On clear days you can catch sight of Slieve League, 36 miles away. This panorama is the reward for conquering a 370-step, 700 foot staircase. Alternatively, you can use the one-way, 7-mile driving route. It's been specifically designed for camera-toting tourists, so its length is scattered with viewpoints, picnic areas and parking. If you intend to both arrive and leave the forest on foot, you can use the Ulster Way. It passes through Lough Navar as part of its loop around the country. There are plenty of other walking routes too. Just be aware that you might be sharing them with wild deer and goats.

This 230-acre section of parkland was originally the estate of Archdale Manor House, an 18th century building. Nowadays, only its courtyards are still standing, so the grounds ended up outlasting their house! The biggest remaining building contains a museum called the Archdale Centre. Many of the exhibits focus on World War II. The manor is on the eastern bank of Lough Erne, so it became an important base for seaplanes. Other remainders from that conflict are scattered throughout Castle Archdale, including ammunition dumps and trenches. Thankfully, these sad memories have since been overrun by prettier sights, like wildflower meadows and butterfly gardens. A protected enclosure hosts herds of red deer. On the shore, boats are available to rent. It's not far to the ancient monasteries on islands like Devenish.

This spot, on the banks of the Upper Lough Erne, is undeniably picturesque. It's no surprise to find that, in years gone by, Northern Ireland's upper classes built expensive mansions here. The most recent 19th century property is a private residence, but you are allowed to see the ruins of an older, 17th century house. More importantly, most of the grounds are open to the public. The only restricted areas are around a few of the trees. These are among the oldest in Europe, and they're so frail that the slightest touch could have a devastating effect! Designated nature trails offer safe routes through the 2000-acre estate's best bits - either through the woods, or along the Erne's shore. Take one of the regular guided tours to learn about all the rare species of plants and animals that live here. Alternatively, get more information at the Visitor Centre. They'll tell you how to rent a boat and explore the Lough's scattered islands. Afterwards, you can restore your energy in the tea room, while children use the playground to burn theirs.