Escape to the enchanting Fermanagh Lakelands, where lush green pastures meet shimmering waterways, creating a haven for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure. Named the # 1 Most Relaxing Destination in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025, Lough Erne is a vast lake system dotted with islands steeped in history and mystery . Explore ancient monastic sites, encounter enigmatic stone figures, and delve into a subterranean world of caves. Whether you yearn for thrilling watersports, peaceful cruises, or uncovering ancient secrets, Fermanagh offers an unforgettable escape.
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Things to See and Do
Lough Erne
The centerpiece of Fermanagh, a vast lake system with two connected lakes – Upper and Lower Lough Erne – joined by the River Erne.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Explore the lake's many islands and hidden coves. Rent kayaks or canoes from Castle Archdale Boat Hire & Watersports, Erne Adventures, or Share Discovery Village.
Boat Rentals
Rent a day boat and explore the lake at your own pace. Options are available from Castle Archdale Marina Boat Hire & Watersports, Manor House Marine, and Erne Boat Hire.
Devenish Island
A historic island home to a well-preserved 12th-century round tower, the ruins of an Augustinian abbey, and a small museum.
White Island
Explore the remains of a 12th-century church and a collection of enigmatic carved stone figures dating back to the 6th century.
Enniskillen
The county town, situated on an island in the River Erne.
Enniskillen Castle
Explore the historic Enniskillen Castle, which houses the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskilling's Museum.
Magho Cliffs
Take a detour off the scenic route between Belleek and Enniskillen for breathtaking views of the lakes.
Belleek
Home to the world-famous Belleek Pottery, where you can take a guided tour.
Boa Island
Visit the ancient Janus figure, a mysterious double-faced stone statue from Celtic times.
Tully Castle
Explore the ruins of this 17th-century fortified house overlooking Lower Lough Erne.
Boat Tours
Take a guided boat tour to Devenish Island or enjoy a scenic cruise around the lake with Erne Water Taxi or Erne Tours.
Waterskiing and Wakeboarding
For thrill-seekers, Tudor Farm Watersports offers waterskiing and wakeboarding lessons.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Fermanagh Lodges offers traditional 17ft Lough Erne fishing boats for hire.
Guided Pike Fishing Trips
Erne Adventures offers guided pike fishing trips.
Wild Swimming
Take a refreshing dip in the lake at Muckross Bay near Kesh or Carrickreagh Jetty near Ely Lodge Forest.
Inishmacsaint Island
Discover the ruins of an ancient church and graveyard on this tranquil island.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail ('Stairway to Heaven')
This popular trail leads to a viewing platform with stunning views over the County Fermanagh countryside.
Marble Arch Caves
Explore a subterranean world of stalagmites, stalactites, and winding passages in these fascinating caves.
Derrygonnelly
This village features a main street lined with two-storey houses, shops, and bars, one of which has a remarkable collection of over 100 antique clocks.
Florencecourt
Visit Florence Court, an 18th-century National Trust property with stunning Palladian architecture and beautiful gardens.
Irvinestown
Explore the ruins of Necarne Castle and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Necarne Estate.
Kesh
Visit the village of Kesh, located near Fermanagh's largest lake, Lough Erne.
Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum
This quirky attraction combines a working barber shop with an extensive railway museum.
Crom Estate
Discover ancient woodlands, tranquil islands, and historic ruins on this National Trust property.
The Buttermarket
This restored 19th-century market square is now a vibrant arts and crafts center.
Ely Lodge Forest
Enjoy scenic walking trails and stunning viewpoints overlooking Lower Lough Erne.
Blessingbourne Estate
Explore mountain bike trails, walking trails, and a private lough for boating on this 550-acre country estate.
Forest Domes at Finn Lough
Sleep under the stars in a transparent dome nestled in a private forest.
Castle Coole
This elegant 18th-century neo-classical mansion offers a glimpse into the lives of the aristocracy.
Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb
This ancient burial site dates from the Neolithic period
Getting There
Fermanagh is accessible by car or bus. From Belfast, take the M1 motorway westbound, followed by the A4 to Enniskillen . The journey takes approximately 90 minutes .
Translink operates bus services from Belfast's Europa Buscentre to Enniskillen, with a journey time of around 2 hours and 15 minutes . If traveling from Dublin, take the M3 northbound to Cavan, then follow the A3 to Enniskillen . This drive takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes . Bus Éireann offers services from Dublin's Busárus to Enniskillen, with a journey time of just under 3 hours.
Events & Festivals 2025
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History
Fermanagh's story begins in the mists of prehistory, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Stone Age. Early settlers were drawn to the abundant waters and fertile lands, leaving behind intriguing remnants of their presence, such as the Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb from the Neolithic period. The Bronze and Iron Ages saw the arrival of new settlers, bringing with them metalworking and trading skills. During the Iron Age, Celtic culture flourished, with enigmatic stone figures like the Janus Figure on Boa Island serving as silent witnesses to this era.
Early Christianity left a profound mark on Fermanagh, with monastic sites like Devenish Island showcasing impressive round towers and high crosses. Viking raids in the 9th century targeted these monastic settlements, adding another layer to the region's rich tapestry of history. The Maguires rose to prominence in the 14th century, their influence shaping Fermanagh's landscape and leaving behind legacies like Enniskillen Castle. The Plantation of Ulster in the 17th century brought a new wave of settlers, further diversifying the cultural heritage of this captivating region.