Here are some of the FREE activities in our area. The perfect way to explore the great Outdoors at no cost!!
The Cuilcagh boardwalk
In the heart of the Cuilcagh Lakeland Geopark, the board walk has become a MUST for your bucket list! Locally it is known as The Legnabrocky Trail or The Stairway to Heaven.
The route is 7km long. The first stretch (5.5km) is a gravel track with a gentle gradient. Then, you start the ascent of Cuilcagh mountain. A boardwalk protects the blanket bog from that point (you can enjoy a carpet of Bog cotton in Spring). The last steep climb of 450 steps leads to a viewing platform with breathtaking views over the surrounding low lands. Lough Atona lies at the foot of the mountain.
The round trip is about 14km and it is graded as difficult. Remember to wear suitable footwear, bring warm clothing (the weather conditions can change very quickly) and bring snacks and water.
The trail can get overcrowded in the Summer but the spectacular views at the top are worth every effort. The best time to walk the boardwalk is early in the morning or during off peak season.
Family walks.
The geopark is the ideal place for a family walk in a forest or along a lake. Escape into the Outdoors and make your own adventure. These are some of our favourites:
- The Cladagh Glen walk follows the Cladagh River, and winds through a lush gorge towards the Marble Arch Caves. Along the way, you’ll encounter a stunning waterfall and, in spring, a vibrant display of bluebells cover the forest floor.
- Cavan Burren Park offers over 10km of scenic trails, dotted with remarkable Neolithic tombs and ancient landscapes. It’s a place that feels remote—yet it’s surprisingly close to our everyday world.
- On the shores of Upper Lough Macnean, Glenfarne Forest offers three easy circular walks. Each walk is clearly signposted and ranges from 3 to 4 km. Glenfarne forest is perfect for a relaxed stroll through peaceful woodland scenery.
- In Belmore Forest, a circular trail leads to the dramatic entrance of Pollnagollum Cave near Boho. The waterfall at the cave is especially striking after heavy rain. Once a popular spot during Victorian times, the cave also featured in a Game of Thrones scene. After your walk, stop by the Linnet Inn—a cosy thatched pub with a turf fire and unique cave lounge.
- Near Belleek, Castle Caldwell offers an easy, scenic lakeside walk ideal for families with young children.
Scenic Drives
• The Marlbank Loop & Killykeegan Nature Reserve
This picturesque route winds through limestone landscapes and peaceful countryside. Stop and explore the trails at Killykeegan Nature Reserve—rich in wildflowers and geological interest.
• Lough Navar Forest Drive & Magho Cliffs Viewpoint
The Lough Navar Forest route climbs through dense woodland to reach the dramatic Magho Cliffs viewpoint. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over Lower Lough Erne, the Bluestack Mountains, and—on a clear day—Slieve League and Donegal Bay.
• Fermanagh Uplands: Ely Lodge Forest, Inishmacsaint & Big Dog Forest
Ely Lodge offers lakeside serenity. Inishmacsaint adds a spiritual touch with its ancient monastic site. Big Dog Forest provides a wilder, more remote experience.
The Best Beaches in South Donegal
Just 20 miles away, the beaches of the Wild Atlantic Way offer a perfect seaside escape. Whether you’re after dramatic views, gentle surf, or family-friendly sands, you will not be disappointed.
• Tullan Strand, Bundoran
Tullan Strand offers panoramic coastal views of Donegal Bay and wide, car-free sands—ideal for long, peaceful walks and wave-watching.
• Rossnowlagh Beach
Renowned for its safe swimming conditions and gentle surf, Rossnowlagh is perfect for families and beginners. The Rossnowlagh Surf School is a great place to catch your first wave or build your confidence in the water.
• Mullaghmore Head
Mullaghmore Head offers a scenic coastal headland for bracing walks and a safe, sandy beach ideal for a relaxing day out.
• Murvagh Beach
Located just outside Donegal Town, Murvagh Beach is a long, sandy stretch backed by forest and dunes—perfect for a quieter beach day with plenty of space to roam.
Outdoor Activities
• Cycling
The Fermanagh Scarplands feature Ireland’s longest off-road gravel tracks. It offers over 100km of scenic trails stretching from Belcoo to Lough Navar. Bring your own gravel/ mountain bike, or hire an electric mountain bike from Corralea. This is a fantastic way to experience the area’s rugged beauty and open spaces.
• Canoeing, Kayaking & SUP
With one of Europe’s most extensive networks of inland waterways, this region is a paddler’s paradise. Canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding offer a unique perspective on the local flora and fauna. Try a guided canoe trip with the Cavan Canoe Centre around Lough Oughter. Or rent canoes and SUP boards at Corralea Centre to explore the tranquil waters of Upper Lough Macnean. More experienced paddlers can take on the 50km Lough Erne Canoe Trail for an unforgettable adventure.
• Fishing
Fermanagh is an angler’s dream. Lough Melvin is renowned for salmon and trout; Lough Erne, a favourite for coarse fishing.
Whether it’s a fun-filled walk with the family, a scenic drive or a day packed with outdoor adventure, there’s loads to do in Fermanagh.
Isabelle.
Photos from Tourism Ireland & Tourism NI.
