View from the Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk, known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” overlooking lakes and moorland in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland — a popular route for walking holidays and outdoor adventures.

County Fermanagh – Lakes, Limestone Hills, and Border Uplands

Interconnected loughs, low limestone uplands, and wooded valleys in south-west Northern Ireland.

County Fermanagh is an inland county of lakes, limestone hills, and border uplands in south-west Northern Ireland. Walking routes cross the Fermanagh Lakelands and the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, and follow sections of the Ulster Way, linking places such as Enniskillen, Belleek, Florencecourt, Derrygonnelly, and the shores of Upper and Lower Lough Erne across lakeside paths, forest tracks, and low hill ground between Ireland’s largest inland water system and the border uplands.

Much of the terrain is firm and gently rolling underfoot. Lakeshore paths, woodland tracks, minor roads, pasture lanes, and upland footpaths allow steady progress, with short climbs onto limestone ridges and escarpments rather than sustained ascent. Ground can be wet in low-lying areas and near lough margins.

The landscape shifts between areas. The Erne system dominates the centre of the county with broad loughs, islands, and sheltered shoreline. To the west and south, limestone uplands rise around Florencecourt and Cuilcagh, while quieter farmland and wooded valleys extend toward the border.

Towns and villages are spaced along lakes and main routes, creating regular access points for shorter walks and longer point-to-point routes, with more remote sections across upland and forested interiors.

Trails and Routes Through County Fermanagh

Ulster Way (Fermanagh sections)

Regional long-distance route using lakeshore paths, minor roads, forest tracks, and upland sections around Lough Erne and the western hills.

Cuilcagh and Upland Paths

Hill and boardwalk routes across blanket bog and limestone slopes around Cuilcagh Mountain.

Lough Erne Shore Routes

Low-level walking along lakeshores, islands, and causeways on flat or gently undulating ground.

Florencecourt Forest and Estate Paths

Woodland and riverside routes through managed forest and parkland with firm tracks.

Walking Character

Interlinked lakes and islands
Limestone hills and escarpments
Wooded valleys and forest tracks
Lakeshore and riverside paths
Mostly gentle gradients
Settlements focused on lough edges
Predominantly inland and low-upland terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is County Fermanagh located?

County Fermanagh is in south-west Northern Ireland, centred on Upper and Lower Lough Erne and bordering Counties Donegal, Leitrim, and Cavan.

What defines walking here?

Lakeside routes and low limestone hills dominate, with a mix of woodland, upland boardwalks, and quiet rural lanes.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. Sections of the Ulster Way pass through the county, linking lakeshore and upland terrain.

Is the terrain steep?

Most routes are gently rolling. Short, steeper climbs occur on limestone hills and upland sections.

Spring through autumn offers longer daylight and drier ground. Low-lying lakeshore areas can be wet after prolonged rain.