Killykeen Forest Park cradles Lough Oughter like an ancient secret nestled between County Cavan's misty hills. This 240-hectare sanctuary wraps around the lake's glassy waters, where Norway spruce towers meet oak-dappled pathways. Here, history bleeds into nature - look for Clough Oughter Castle's jagged stone tower rising from an island, a 13th-century fortress that once sheltered rebels and now mirrors in the water like a fairy-tale relic. Nearby, the Gartnanoul Court Tomb whispers of even older times, its megalithic stones standing sentinel to a culture that thrived five millennia ago. The park's wild heart pulses through every trail: red squirrels dart between Sitka spruce, while kingfishers flash cobalt over the shore.
For adventurers, guided canoe trips glide past the castle's crumbling battlements, and autumn foraging tours with local guide Shailagh reveal edible fungi tangled in the undergrowth. Families weave along family-friendly cycle trails or dip into Lough Oughter's cool waters at designated swims, while birders scan for winter visitors like wigeon ducks riding the reeds. Whether you're tracing the Killykeen Way greenway or simply sipping coffee at a lakeside bench, this park offers Ireland in microcosm - ancient, wild, and utterly alive. Come to wander where history walks hand-in-hand with the wind through the trees.
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Things to See and Do
Clough Oughter Castle
A 13th-century circular tower on Lough Oughter, once a stronghold of the O'Reilly clan and later used as a prison by Irish rebels. Accessible via guided canoe trips organized by Cavan Adventure Centre.
Gartnanoul Court Tomb
A 5,000-year-old megalithic tomb with two adjacent tombs sharing a large stone slab. Located in a scenic lakeside setting within the park.
Foraging Experience with Shailagh
Guided autumn forays led by Geopark Guide Shailagh focusing on fungi identification, Celtic folklore, and safe sampling of species like boletus edulis. Booking required via Fermanagh Lake Lands.
Iron Age Ring Fort
Ancient earthwork fortification from the pre-Viking era, offering insights into early Irish settlement patterns. Located within forested areas of Killykeen.
Killykeen Way Greenway
A multi-use trail for walking and cycling, offering access to forested paths and views of Lough Oughter. Connects Killykeen Forest Park with nearby villages.
Birdwatching Spots on Lough Oughter
Opportunity to observe migratory species like wigeon, pochard, and great crested grebes along with resident ducks such as mallards. Best in winter for rare sightings.
Family Cycle Trail
Gentle circular route ideal for families with children, featuring smooth terrain and views of the lake and mixed woodlands like Norway spruce forests.
Killykeen Forest Nature Trail (3km Loop)
Family-friendly white waymarked trail circling Lough Oughter. Highlights include sightings of pine martens, red squirrels, and views towards Clough Oughter Castle.
Gartanoul Shore Walk & Loop
Blue waymarked route (linear shore walk + loop extension) offering bird-rich lakeshore environments. Features diverse flora including alder groves and willow thickets.
Wildlife Viewing Trails
Tracks traversing mixed woodland habitats where visitors may encounter stoats, badgers, Irish hares, and raptors like buzzards. Best at dawn/dusk.
Off-Road Killeshandra Trail (12km)
Challenging trail connecting the park to Killeshandra town via rural landscapes. Suitable for mountain bikes and experienced walkers with navigational skills.
Course Fishing on Lough Oughter
Popular spot for catching pike, bream, and perch using handheld or boat methods. Anglers can enjoy free park access while fishing licenses apply.
Lough Oughter Swimming Area
Designated swimming spot in the lake with lifeguard supervision during peak season (summer months). Offers family-friendly access to clear waters.
Getting There
Car
To get to Killykeen Forest Park by car, take the R198 road in County Cavan, Ireland. The park is located approximately 12km northwest of Cavan.
Bike
Forest trails are available for bike rides throughout the forest park. Scenic cycle routes exist for all standards of enthusiast, including a 30-mile route around Belturbet, Miltown, and Killeshandra.
Boat
You can explore the uninhabited Inch Island or venture over to Clogh Oughter Castle by boat.
Local Exploration
The Marble Arch caves are less than an hour's drive from Killykeen Forest Park. The Drumlane Monastery ruin can be found overlooking Lough Derrybrick, and the Cuilcagh mountain is approximately a 1-hour drive away in neighboring Co Fermanagh.
Events & Festivals 2025
There are currently no events listed. If you would like to add an event, please contact us.
History
Killykeen Forest Park's history stretches back to the Neolithic era, with two megalithic court tombs hidden amongst the woods. These ancient structures are rare examples of court cairns, dating back around 5,000 years. Under the care of the Office of Public Works, they remain somewhat off the beaten path, with no signage or interpretive panels to guide visitors. Despite this, they offer a glimpse into the lives of Ireland's earliest farmers and settlers. The tombs' remote location has helped preserve their integrity, but also means that only the most intrepid explorers are likely to stumble upon them. As relics of a bygone era, they whisper secrets of a long-forgotten past, waiting to be unearthed by curious visitors.