County Fermanagh

How can a county without a coastline earn a reputation as a water wonderland? Here’s the answer – County Fermanagh in the north-west of Ireland doesn’t need the ocean. Instead, it has a wonderful network of shimmering lakes, gentle rivers and winding waterways, and the best way to discover it is on the water. Hop on board a boat or cruiser, and you can explore the secrets of Fermanagh’s many islands, from monastic ruins to ancient carvings. Plus, there are the unique pleasures of Enniskillen, Ireland’s ONLY island town, where great food, waterfront views and an impressive 15th-century castle await. Combining Northern Ireland’s extraordinary landscapes with the lush serenity of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Fermanagh is an adventure waiting to happen.

County Fermanagh attractions

For breathtaking views of the Fermanagh countryside, climb to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain on the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail. Known as the “Stairway to Heaven”, this 11km trail takes you through one of the most intact blanket bogs in Europe.

Venture underground into the spectacular Marble Arch Caves, a labyrinth of rivers, waterfalls and vast echoing chambers. On a guided tour, you can sail along an underground river as you marvel at a world that was formed over 330 million years ago.

Then head to the charming village of Belleek, home of Belleek Pottery. This is the oldest working fine-china pottery on the island of Ireland and a factory tour will take you behind the scenes where you can watch skilled craftspeople at work. 

Many of Fermanagh’s most captivating attractions are dotted around Lough Erne. Hire a cruiser or catch the ferry and explore White Island, famous for the mysterious 2,000-year-old sandstone figures set in the wall of a ruined 12th-century church. Step onto Boa Island and discover the two-faced Janus stone idol. Originally thought to be Roman, experts now believe it may portray a Celtic goddess.

On Devenish Island, you can walk through a remarkably preserved early-Christian monastic settlement, complete with a round tower. Established in the 6th century, the site was raided by Vikings and burned in the 12th century, but it rose again to flourish in the Middle Ages. Its ruins survive, leaving eerie echoes of its turbulent 1,500-year history.

Explore the islands of Lough Erne

Fermanagh is part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, so it’s to be expected that adventures abound on its waterways. From cruising and boat trips to kayaking and wild swimming, there is no better way to enjoy the lakelands here than getting out on the water. 

Try these fun watersports in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

A very different side of Fermanagh is on display when you visit its great estates. Built in the 18th century by Sir John Cole and named for his beloved wife, Florence Court enjoys a picturesque setting against the backdrop of Benaughlin moutain. Take a guided tour of the house, stroll the woodland walks and watch out for the legendary 250-year-old Florence Court yew tree – the mother plant of every Irish yew tree around the world.

Just outside Enniskillen lies the Neo-classical mansion of Castle Coole, ancestral home of the Earls of Belmore. This vast house was built to impress, with opulent reception rooms that contrast starkly with the basement quarters once occupied by an army of servants. 

If you want to experience life in a grand house for yourself, luxurious Crom Castle, on the shores of Lough Erne is available to rent. Alternatively, you can explore the glorious 2,000-acre Crom Estate with its ancient woodlands, stone follies and walking trails.  

Discover more of Ireland’s great houses

Inhabiting one of the 150 or so islands on Lough Erne, the market town of Enniskillen strikes a perfect balance between history, outdoor adventures and a lively food scene.

Visit the 15th-century Enniskillen Castle, home to the Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum. Take to the water on a hydrobike or kayak from Erne Adventures. Then treat yourself to a flavour of Enniskillen as you explore its food markets or enjoy a drink in historic pubs like Blakes of the Hollow.

Enjoy a fabulous food tour of Enniskillen 

Beyond County Fermanagh

Fermanagh is perfectly located for exploring some of Northern Ireland’s top attractions, from the Sperrins, where you can enjoy scenic mountain hikes and pristine dark skies to Armagh, a charming small city that’s known as Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital.

For the coastal charms of the Wild Atlantic Way, Donegal’s seaside town of Bundoran is hard to beat. The beaches here catch huge ocean waves, making it a hotspot for surfers.

In Sligo, picturesque Mullaghmore and Streedagh Beach would stand out on any trip itinerary. Both come with breathtaking views of Ben Bulben, the mountain that so inspired WB Yeats, who loved Sligo dearly.

Or go off-the-beaten-track in County Leitrim and discover Glencar Waterfall, the vibrant marina town of Carrick-on-Shannon and epic landscapes like Eagle’s Rock. These gems of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands are waiting to be uncovered so start planning your Ireland getaway now.