Mythical mountains
Head for the hills. The Sperrin Mountains on the border of counties Tyrone and Londonderry form the largest mountain range in Ireland, and have beguiled people for millennia: here you’ll find the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, more than 90 of them, aligned with the heavens. The Mourne Mountains in County Down, meanwhile, are another must-see, full of oddities, such as the Mourne Wall that stretches across the summits, paths made by 18th century smugglers, plus Slieve Donard, the highest peak at 853 metres. It’s said such was the beauty of the Mournes that Belfast-native CS Lewis drew inspiration for his description of Narnia. Conquer the peaks alone or join the party…both the Sperrins and the Mournes have walking festivals.
Fermanagh Lakelands
Swaying reeds. Rippling waters. Fields blanketed in vivid green. The Fermanagh Lakelands are a place of profound tranquillity, offering a continuous stream of quiet moments and hidden gems, from ancient statues to forest trails. From its rugged peaks to its gentle valleys, this landscape has been shaped by water, and there’s fantastic coarse and game fishing to be had. Full of lakes, rivers and inlets scattered with mysterious islands (154 of them, to be precise), take a boat or, even better, paddle yourself by kayak over the silent waters of Lough Erne, where Fermanagh’s islands offer ruined churches and ancient carved statues. Devenish is one of the most famous. A monastery was established here in the 6th century, before being raided by Vikings and later burned. But the oratory of St Molaise and the 12th century round tower have survived, painting a vivid picture of the island’s monastic past. Keep an eye out, too, for Boa Island, with its 1,500-year-old statues; White Island, also boasting ancient stone figures; and Lusty Beg, a 30-hectare resort with self-catering and B&B accommodation, along with activities that range from clay-pigeon shooting to off-road driving.
Set in picturesque locations, Fermanagh’s magnificent mansions and gardens bask in beauty. There’s Crom Estate, an 810-hectare demesne on the shores of Upper Lough Erne; there’s Castle Coole, one of Ireland’s finest neo-classical mansions with sumptuous Regency interiors; and there’s Florence Court, the former home to the Earls of Enniskillen, with glorious walks through native woodland.