2
NI Border ROI NI Border ROI NI ROI Border LOWER LOUGH ERNE UPPER LOUGH ERNE LOUGH MACNEAN UPPER LOUGH MACNEAN LOWER BALLYCASSIDY ENNISKILLEN TAMLAGHT LISBELLAW MAGUIRESBRIDGE LISNASKEA NEWTOWNBUTLER TEEMORE DERRYLIN NORTH OF IRELAND BELFAST Northern Ireland Republic of Ireland CASTLE ISLAND A SMITH’S STRAND GR H342 294 A CASTLE ARCHDALE COUNTRY PARK GR H173 589 Toilets, fresh water, shop & café - summer only Camping 500m from water www.doeni.gov.uk/niea www.castlearchdale.com Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6862 1333 www.ardhowentheatre.com Toilets at GR H223 468 Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6638 6519 Access here for Enniskillen Castle GR H231 442 www.forestserviceni.gov.uk A MUCKROSS GR H162 641 A J J J J ROSSIGH GR H179 556 A CARRYBRIDGE GR H295 375 A J J BELLANALECK GR H236 391 A TRORY GR H227 477 Shop located 1km from water Facilities part of hotel complex www.killyhevlin.com [email protected] www.sharevillage.org Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6772 2122 Difficult slip access Bellaneck Marina 500m to A KNOCKNINNY QUAY GR H279 313 A J CROM GR H370 238 A Crom Estate open mid March to end Oct www.nationaltrust.org.uk/crom Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6773 8118 J J J J J J J LOUGH BECOMES ROUGH IN STRONG WINDS KESH GR H179 639 J J J J J J J J J J J J J CASTLECALDWELL GR H014 605 J ROSCOR GR H991 588 J J J J BELLEEK MARINA ARDHOWEN GR H243 432 GR H943 588 J TULLY CASTLE GR H127 565 CAMAGH BAY GR H161 537 DRUMCROW GR H130 557 J INISHMACSAINT GR H167 542 J MAGHO GR H063 584 J DEVENISH ISLAND EAST GR H226 470 ROUND O GR H229 445 J CORRACLOONA GR H014 423 KILROOSCAGH MONEYDUFF GR H058 398 GR H231 440 CARRICKREAGH GR H176 521 Seasonal toilet & shower access Town facilities 200m walk Access to Belleek pottery at GR H943 588 Canoe & Kayak Hire www.lakesidecaravanandcamping.com T: 00 353 (0)71 9852822 Short walk to facilities 40M Portage to water For bothy bookings and camping permission contact Share Discovery Village www.sharevillage.org Tel: +44 (0)28 6772 2122 Lodge Point Tully Point Duff Point Duross Point Trawnish Island Cushrush Island Copse Point J RUSHIN HOUSE GR H068 393 GR H065 377 COTTAGE LAWN GR H087 386 GR H024 390 Leisure Centre Facilities Access to footbridge & bus station LAKESIDE CENTRE GR H888 611 www.activityireland.com J J J ERNESIDE SHOPPING CENTRE GR H237 437 J LAKELAND FORUM GR H233 438 J REGAL PASS GR H235 438 J SLIGO ROAD GR H229 440 J CASTLE ISLAND GR H231 440 J QUEENS STREET GR H233 444 J CHERRY ISLAND GR H234 444 J HENRY STREET GR H229 441 ROUND O GR H229 445 J J ENNISKILLEN EDGEWATER HOLIDAY PARK Corralea Activity Centre BELTURBET BELCOO BLACKLION Café limited opening during winter Camping Tel: +44 (0) 028 8676 7022 Camping by permission of Castle Archdale Country Park Tel: +44 (0) 28 6862 1588 No road access to jetty www.forestserviceni.gov.uk Alternative parking and jetty on south side of river at GR H175 637 www.lustybegisland.com GR H157 647 CASTLE ARCHDALE FOREST GR H180 600 J CREVINISHAUGHY NORTH GR H163 603 J CREVINISHAUGHY EAST GR H164 596 INISH DAVAR GR H179 550 HAY ISLAND GR H203 532 ROSSCLARE GR H186 544 LADY OF THE LAKE GR H195 540 ARDHOWEN THEATRE GR H243 432 KILLYHEVLIN HOTEL GR H246 424 CARRYBRIDGE HOTEL GR H295 375 NAAN ISLAND GR H302 319 KILMORE GR H337 311 TIRAROE GR H306 299 TRANNISH ISLAND BOTHY GR H323 290 CORRADILLAR GR H329 283 GEAGLUM GR H336 265 LADY CRAIGAVON BRIDGE GR H331 280 SHARE DISCOVERY VILLAGE GR H341 294 PORTORA LOCK GATES GR H222 453 GR H234 439 DAVEY’S ISLAND GR H174 593 WHITE ISLAND NORTH GR H175 599 J DERRYADD GR H340 273 TRINITY SLIP GR H355 238 BELTURBET GR H363 172 AGHALANE GR H344 197 LINKS TO LOUGH OUGHTER & LOUGH GOWNA River Erne FLOW OF UPPER & LOWER LOUGH ERNE LINKS TO RIVER FINN GALLOON ISLAND GR H391 227 BUN BRIDGE GR H386 251 J LUSTY BEG BOA ISLAND GR H111 622 J LUSTY MORE GR H110 616 Lifeboat station Lifeboat station Belle Isle River Erne Innishmore Innish Rath Arney River This project has been developed by Other project partners include: The Canoe Association of Northern Ireland and Share Discovery Village. Outdoor Recreation NI is core funded by the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Northern Ireland Tourist Board & Sport Northern Ireland. All sites with slips cater for disability access with varying degrees depending on the water level. It is recommended to check before starting a journey. This guide is available on request in alternative formats. Provision for people with disabilities Further Information Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism T: +44 (0)28 6632 3110 www.fermanaghlakelands.com Trail updates: Any changes to the canoe trail that may occur will be updated on www.canoeni.com. Please email any feedback to [email protected] Other Resources Canoe Trails www.canoeni.com Canoe Association of Northern Ireland www.cani.org.uk Outdoor NI www.outdoorni.com Outdoor Recreation NI www.outdoorrecreationni.com Waterways Ireland (Navigation Authority) www.waterwaysireland.org NIEA Water Pollution Hotline Freephone 0800 807060 Disclaimer Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication. Outdoor Recreation NI and its partner organisations cannot however accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Canoeing may by its nature be hazardous and involve risk; training is essential for safe participation. It is recommended to take out personal accident insurance. Users must undertake and act on their own risk assessments prior to use of any access site or waterway and review and update during use. The guide must be used in conjunction with an ordnance survey 1:25,000 or 1:50,000 map. Neither the publishers, funders, contributors, landowners, site managers, riparian owners nor agents of the aforementioned can be held responsible for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by any person or persons as a result of information, guidance or advice given in or omitted from this guide. Acknowledgements Design www.thinkstudio.co.uk Accommodation A range of self catering, B&B and hotels are available along the trail. For a full list of accommodation providers please visit www.canoeni.com or www.discovernorthernireland.com or contact Fermanagh Tourist Information Centre. Restricted Access The following islands on Lough Erne are important sites for breeding birds and as such should be avoided between March and August: Lower Lough Erne: Cleenishgarve, Cleenishmean, Inishmackill, Gay Island, Ferny Island South, White Island South, Horse Island by Killadeas, Rabbit Island, Hare Island, Cruninish Island, Gravel Ridge Island, Stallion Cows, Screegan Island, Lusty More (except for the footpath from the jetty), White Island North (except for jetty and the area around the church ruins), Muckinish, Rosscor Island. All of the above islands and those following are inhabited by cattle, including bulls, from April to November. Caution is advised when accessing these islands: Devenish (except by the monument), Inishmore (except by the church ruins). Canoe Hire and Canoe Tours For up-to-date canoe hire and guiding please visit www.canoeni.com Camping For up-to-date details of official campsites and rough camping opportunities please visit www.canoeni.com Earning a Welcome 1. Please be friendly and polite to local residents and other water users. 2. Drive with care and consideration and park sensibly. 3. Change clothing discreetly, preferably out of public view. 4. Gain permission before accessing private property. 5. Minimise your impact on the natural environment and use recognised access points. There are also many unofficial access points along the shore, which may be used with the owner’s consent. 6. Be sensitive to wildlife and other users regarding the level of noise you create. 7. Observe wildlife from a distance and be aware of sensitive locations such as nesting birds and wintering flocks. 8. Outdoor Recreation NI supports the principles of Leave No Trace and encourages others to do the same when taking part in outdoor recreation. For more information please visit www.leavenotraceireland.org. 9. Keep the numbers in your party consistent with safety, the nature of the water conditions and the impact on your surroundings. 10. Wild camping should be carried out discreetly, in small parties, and for overnight stays only. 11. Have respect for anglers - keep well clear of anglers fishing from banks and boats. Avoid shallow gravel areas of rivers where salmon and trout may spawn, especially from November to January. 12. Take care to avoid spreading invasive species. For more advice see www.invasivespeciesireland.com Camping on Trannish Island Red Squirrel This guide is designed to be used in conjunction with relevant OSNI 1:25,000 or 1;50,000 maps Trannish Island Bothy 55 50 90 95 00 05 10 30 35 40 45 40 35 Snipe Arney River CULCARRICK WOODFORD RIVER LINKS TO LIMERICK VIA SHANNON-ERNE WATERWAY Parking Cafe/restaurant Historical Building Toilets Jetty Caravan & Camp Site Rough Camping Shop Fresh water Shower Telephone Public house Slipway Access Suitable Picnic Site Shore Access Bothy Hostel/Youth Hostel Tourist Information Hospital Nesting/Wintering Birds Local Walks Towns or Residential areas Access points Ferry Routes Direction of Flow A Key to Symbols J LINKS TO COLEBROOK RIVER LINKS TO THE SILLEES RIVER RIVER ERNE LINKS TO BALLYSHANNON A46 B52 A46 A4 A509 A509 B1 27 A34 B127 B514 A32 A32 A4 B46 B82 B81 A35 A47 B136 A47 A4 B195 B52 R218 N16 B533 N3 Assaroe Lake Portora Lock Race Course Lough Rossole Lough Fire Station Ardhowen Arts Centre 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Lakeland Forum A4 A46 A32 A4 B80 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 5 Kilometres Enniskillen Town Centre Access Points

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Page 1: Lock EDGEWATER HOLIDAY PARK BELLEEK MARINA J … Erne Canoe Trail Guide 2012.pdf · The Erne System flows from south to north, that is, from Upper Lough Erne to Lower Lough Erne

NI B

orde

rRO

I

NI Border

ROI

NIROI Border

LOWER LOUGH ERNE

UPPER LOUGH ERNE

LOUGH MACNEAN UPPER

LOUGH MACNEAN LOWER

BALLYCASSIDY

ENNISKILLEN

TAMLAGHT LISBELLAW

MAGUIRESBRIDGE

LISNASKEA

NEWTOWNBUTLER

TEEMORE

DERRYLIN

NO

RT

H O

F IR

EL

AN

D

B E L FA S T

NorthernIreland

Republicof Ireland

CASTLE ISLAND A

SMITH’S STRANDGR H342 294

A

CASTLE ARCHDALECOUNTRY PARKGR H173 589

Toilets, fresh water,

shop & café - summer only

Camping 500m from water

www.doeni.gov.uk/niea

www.castlearchdale.com

Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6862 1333

www.ardhowentheatre.com

Toilets at GR H223 468

Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6638 6519

Access here for Enniskillen Castle

GR H231 442

www.forestserviceni.gov.uk

A

MUCKROSSGR H162 641

A

J

J

J

J

ROSSIGHGR H179 556

A

CARRYBRIDGEGR H295 375

A

J

J

BELLANALECKGR H236 391

A

TRORYGR H227 477

Shop located 1km

from water

Facilities part of hotel complex

www.killyhevlin.com

[email protected]

www.sharevillage.org

Camping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6772 2122

Difficult slip access

Bellaneck Marina

500m to

A

KNOCKNINNYQUAY

GR H279 313

A

J

CROMGR H370 238A

Crom Estate open mid March toend Octwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/cromCamping Tel: +44 (0) 28 6773 8118

J

J

J

JJ

J

J

LOUGH BECOMES ROUGH IN STRONG WINDS

KESHGR H179 639

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

J

CASTLECALDWELLGR H014 605

J

ROSCORGR H991 588

J

J

J

J

BELLEEK MARINA

ARDHOWEN GR H243 432

GR H943 588

J

TULLY CASTLEGR H127 565

CAMAGH BAYGR H161 537

DRUMCROWGR H130 557

J

INISHMACSAINTGR H167 542

J

MAGHOGR H063 584

J

DEVENISH ISLAND EASTGR H226 470

ROUND O GR H229 445J

CORRACLOONAGR H014 423

KILROOSCAGH

MONEYDUFF

GR H058 398

GR H231 440

CARRICKREAGHGR H176 521

Seasonal toilet & shower access

Town facilities 200m walk

Access to Belleek pottery at

GR H943 588

Canoe & Kayak Hirewww.lakesidecaravanandcamping.comT: 00 353 (0)71 9852822

Short walk to facilities

40M Portage to water

For bothy bookings and camping permission

contact Share Discovery Village www.sharevillage.org

Tel: +44 (0)28 6772 2122

LodgePoint

TullyPoint

DuffPoint

DurossPoint

TrawnishIsland

CushrushIsland

CopsePoint

J

RUSHIN HOUSEGR H068 393

GR H065 377

COTTAGE LAWNGR H087 386

GR H024 390

Leisure Centre Facilities

Access to footbridge & bus station

LAKESIDE CENTREGR H888 611

www.activityireland.com

J

J

J

ERNESIDE SHOPPING CENTRE GR H237 437 J

LAKELAND FORUM GR H233 438 J

REGAL PASS GR H235 438 J

SLIGO ROAD GR H229 440 J

CASTLE ISLAND GR H231 440 J

QUEENS STREET GR H233 444 J

CHERRY ISLAND GR H234 444 J

HENRY STREET GR H229 441

ROUND O GR H229 445

JJ

E N N I S K I L L E N

EDGEWATER HOLIDAY PARK

Corralea Activity Centre

BELTURBET

BELCOO

BLACKLION

Café limited opening during winter

Camping Tel: +44 (0) 028 8676 7022

Camping by permission of Castle Archdale

Country Park Tel: +44 (0) 28 6862 1588

No road access to jetty

www.forestserviceni.gov.uk

Alternative parking and jetty on

south side of river at GR H175 637

www.lustybegisland.com

GR H157 647

CASTLE ARCHDALE FORESTGR H180 600

J

CREVINISHAUGHY NORTHGR H163 603

J

CREVINISHAUGHY EASTGR H164 596

INISH DAVARGR H179 550

HAY ISLANDGR H203 532

ROSSCLAREGR H186 544

LADY OF THE LAKEGR H195 540

ARDHOWEN THEATREGR H243 432

KILLYHEVLIN HOTELGR H246 424

CARRYBRIDGE HOTELGR H295 375

NAAN ISLANDGR H302 319

KILMOREGR H337 311

TIRAROEGR H306 299

TRANNISH ISLAND BOTHYGR H323 290

CORRADILLARGR H329 283

GEAGLUMGR H336 265

LADY CRAIGAVON BRIDGEGR H331 280

SHARE DISCOVERY VILLAGEGR H341 294

PORTORALOCK GATESGR H222 453

GR H234 439

DAVEY’S ISLANDGR H174 593

WHITE ISLAND NORTHGR H175 599

J

DERRYADDGR H340 273

TRINITY SLIPGR H355 238

BELTURBETGR H363 172

AGHALANEGR H344 197

LINKS TO LOUGH OUGHTER& LOUGH GOWNA

River Erne

FLOW OF UPPER & LOW

ER LOUGH ERNE

LINKS TO RIVER FINN

GALLOON ISLANDGR H391 227

BUN BRIDGEGR H386 251

J

LUSTY BEG

BOA ISLAND

GR H111 622

J

LUSTY MOREGR H110 616

Lifeboatstation

Lifeboat station

Belle Isle

River Erne

Innishmore

Innish Rath

Arney River

This project has been developed by

Other project partners include: The Canoe Association of Northern Ireland and Share Discovery Village.

Outdoor Recreation NI is core funded by the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Northern Ireland Tourist Board & Sport Northern Ireland.

All sites with slips cater for disability access with varying degrees depending on the water level. It is recommended to check before starting a journey.

This guide is available on request in alternative formats.

Provision for people with disabilities

Further InformationFermanagh Lakeland Tourism T: +44 (0)28 6632 3110 www.fermanaghlakelands.com Trail updates: Any changes to the canoe trail that may occur will be updated on www.canoeni.com. Please email any feedback to [email protected]

Other ResourcesCanoe Trails www.canoeni.comCanoe Association of Northern Ireland www.cani.org.ukOutdoor NI www.outdoorni.comOutdoor Recreation NI www.outdoorrecreationni.comWaterways Ireland (Navigation Authority) www.waterwaysireland.org

NIEA Water Pollution Hotline Freephone 0800 807060

DisclaimerEvery effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication. Outdoor Recreation NI and its partner organisations cannot however accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Canoeing may by its nature be hazardous and involve risk; training is essential for safe participation. It is recommended to take out personal accident insurance. Users must undertake and act on their own risk assessments prior to use of any access site or waterway and review and update during use. The guide must be used in conjunction with an ordnance survey 1:25,000 or 1:50,000 map. Neither the publishers, funders, contributors, landowners, site managers, riparian owners nor agents of the aforementioned can be held responsible for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by any person or persons as a result of information, guidance or advice given in or omitted from this guide.

Acknowledgements

Design www.thinkstudio.co.uk

AccommodationA range of self catering, B&B and hotels are available along the trail. For a full list of

accommodation providers please visit www.canoeni.com or www.discovernorthernireland.com or contact Fermanagh Tourist Information Centre.

Restricted AccessThe following islands on Lough Erne are important sites for breeding birds and as such

should be avoided between March and August:

Lower Lough Erne: Cleenishgarve, Cleenishmean, Inishmackill, Gay Island, Ferny Island South,

White Island South, Horse Island by Killadeas, Rabbit Island, Hare Island, Cruninish Island,

Gravel Ridge Island, Stallion Cows, Screegan Island, Lusty More (except for the footpath

from the jetty), White Island North (except for jetty and the area around the church ruins),

Muckinish, Rosscor Island.

All of the above islands and those following are inhabited by cattle, including bulls, from

April to November. Caution is advised when accessing these islands:

Devenish (except by the monument), Inishmore (except by the church ruins).

Canoe Hire and Canoe ToursFor up-to-date canoe hire and guiding please visit www.canoeni.com

CampingFor up-to-date details of official campsites and rough camping opportunities please visit www.canoeni.com

Earning a Welcome1. Please be friendly and polite to local residents and other water users.

2. Drive with care and consideration and park sensibly.

3. Change clothing discreetly, preferably out of public view.

4. Gain permission before accessing private property.

5. Minimise your impact on the natural environment and use recognised access points. There are also many

unofficial access points along the shore, which may be used with the owner’s consent.

6. Be sensitive to wildlife and other users regarding the level of noise you create.

7. Observe wildlife from a distance and be aware of sensitive locations such as nesting birds and wintering flocks.

8. Outdoor Recreation NI supports the principles of Leave No Trace and encourages others to do the same when

taking part in outdoor recreation. For more information please visit www.leavenotraceireland.org.

9. Keep the numbers in your party consistent with safety, the nature of the water conditions and the impact

on your surroundings.

10. Wild camping should be carried out discreetly, in small parties, and for overnight stays only.

11. Have respect for anglers - keep well clear of anglers fishing from banks and boats. Avoid shallow gravel areas

of rivers where salmon and trout may spawn, especially from November to January.

12. Take care to avoid spreading invasive species. For more advice see www.invasivespeciesireland.com

Camping on Trannish Island

Red Squirrel

This guide is designed to be used in conjunction with relevant OSNI 1:25,000 or 1;50,000 maps

Trannish Island Bothy

55

50

90 95 00 05 10 30 35 40

45

40

35

Snipe

Arney River

CULCARRICK

WOODFORD RIVER LINKS TO LIMERICKVIA SHANNON-ERNE WATERWAY

Parking

Cafe/restaurant

Historical Building

Toilets

Jetty

Caravan & Camp Site

Rough Camping

Shop

Fresh water

Shower

Telephone

Public house

Slipway Access

Suitable Picnic Site

Shore Access

Bothy

Hostel/Youth Hostel

Tourist Information

Hospital

Nesting/Wintering Birds

Local Walks

Towns or Residential areas

Access points

Ferry Routes

Direction of Flow

A

Key to Symbols

J

LINKS TOCOLEBROOK

RIVER

LINKS TOTHE SILLEES

RIVER

RIVER ERNE LINKSTO BALLYSHANNON

A46

B5

2

A46

A4

A5

09

A509

B1

27

A34

B1

27

B514

A3

2A

32

A4

B46

B82

B81

A35

A47

B136

A47

A4

B195

B52

R2

18

N16

B5

33

N3

Assaroe Lake

PortoraLock

RaceCourseLough

RossoleLough

Fire Station

ArdhowenArts Centre 1

23

45

6

78

9

10

LakelandForum

A4

A46

A32

A4

B80

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

5 Kilometres

Enniskillen Town CentreAccess Points

Page 2: Lock EDGEWATER HOLIDAY PARK BELLEEK MARINA J … Erne Canoe Trail Guide 2012.pdf · The Erne System flows from south to north, that is, from Upper Lough Erne to Lower Lough Erne

can eoT R A I L S

Lough ErneCanoe Trail

Fermanagh’s lakes provide the ideal destination for

canoeing. This 50 kilometre trail spans both Upper

and Lower Lough Erne providing excellent opportunities for

wild camping along the way.

The Lough Erne Canoe Trail is one of the most popular canoe

trails in Northern Ireland because it is suitable for such a wide

range of abilities. As with all canoe trails in Northern Ireland,

access to the water is free and no licence is required.

The maze of bays, narrow channels of slow moving water

and innumerable islands and peninsulas in Upper Lough Erne

offer a superb venue for families or those embarking on their

first canoe trip.

Lower Lough Erne, north of Rossigh, is known by locals as the

‘broad lough’ and can become very rough in strong winds, so

this is an area best left to experts.

The Erne System flows from south to north, that is, from

Upper Lough Erne to Lower Lough Erne. The flow is

insignificant on the lough sections where wind direction is a

much more important consideration and therefore this should

not impact on your decision of which direction to travel.

There is a small flow along the River Erne section through

Enniskillen. It is possible to paddle ‘upstream’ most of the

year, however flow can become significant during periods

of high rainfall so it is wise to check conditions in advance.

The Arney River flows west to east from Lough MacNean

Lower to Upper Lough Erne and is faster flowing Grade

1 water.

The islands and quiet shores of Lough

Erne are ideal for wild camping, making

it perfect for those seeking a true

wilderness experience. Wildlife

highlights include kingfishers, otters

and grey herons whilst numerous

historic lough-side features such as the

iconic Devenish Tower, Crom Estate and

Enniskillen Castle are well worth a visit.

Crom to Knockninny

The National Trust property Crom Estate provides an ideal

location to begin your journey. Slipway and jetty facilities

provide easy access to the water with car parking available

close by. Camping is available for those who want to arrive

the night before in order to make an early start.

The estate and surrounding area is perhaps best viewed by

water so be sure to allow time to take in the many historic

attractions. After launching, paddle west following the

shoreline past the remains of the 17th century Crom Castle

(destroyed in a fire), where it is possible to pull up on the

shore right beside the ruins. A short walk will take you to

the famous ancient yew tree, believed to be over 800

years old and one of the oldest in Ireland.

Continuing north west, a short paddle further along the

shoreline brings into view the exquisite 19th century

boathouse, formerly headquarters of the Lough Erne Yacht

Club. The 19th century Crom Castle, home of Lord Erne,

provides a stunning backdrop. You can continue to paddle

along the eastern shoreline of Inisherk and under the White

Bridge but it is recommended to briefly retrace your tracks

to take in Crichton Tower on Gad Island, an impressive folly.

From here the route north

west past Trinity Church on

the Derryvore peninsula is

flanked on either side by

ancient woodland. This

tranquil area offers a great

opportunity to view Grey

Heron fishing from the

banks and if you are really

fortunate, deer and wild

goats may be spotted

drinking from the lough.

Inish Rath is a unique

stop-off point. The island is

home to a thriving Hare Krishna community and visitors are

welcome, however it is best to make contact in advance.

Access can be gained via jetties on the island's western

shore. After passing under Lady Craigavon Bridge, Trannish

Island offers a bothy and campsite which can be booked in

advance via the nearby Share Discovery Village at Smith’s

Strand where camping with facilities is also available.

From Trannish Island there are several routes which can

be taken to Knockninny through a maze of islands with

native woodlands. A great reference point is Knockninny

Hill where the Maguire chieftains once had their castle.

Knockninny offers a camp site to the south of the

toilet block.

Knockninny to Enniskillen

Knockninny to Inishmore island is the only expansive piece

of water on the Upper Lough so this journey is best

approached with caution in strong winds. There are two

options to pass by Inishmore Island. Either west under the

Inishmore Viaduct or preferably east between Inishmore

and Belle Isle which will bring you via Carrybridge. The

entrance to this section is marked by a white water level

recording station which is a great marker for the start of

the river section otherwise difficult to identify amongst the

woodland. Continue past the west of Belle Isle Estate,

originally the seat of the MacManus clan and famous as the

site where Cathal Og MacManus compiled the Annals of

Ulster in the 15th century.

Carrybridge is a popular

waterskiing location during the

summer months so exercise

caution when approaching.

A small rough campsite for a

few tents is available on the

north side of the bridge on the

east side of the river (GR H295

375). A basic toilet block and

fresh water are available here.

Alternatively, accommodation

is available at the Carrybridge

Hotel on the western bank.

Whether a resident or not, the

hotel is a popular spot with

locals for food and drink.

Continue trending north west along the river towards the

county town of Enniskillen. This flat water river offers a

choice of routes to Enniskillen with the western branch being

the shortest. Bellanaleck Jetty (GR H236 391) is an excellent

lunch stop. The village of Bellanaleck is only a 500m walk

away and offers a well stocked local shop. Another great

option just slightly downstream is The Moorings (GR H234

396), a popular local eatery and bar.

On reaching Enniskillen rough overnight camping is available

on Castle Island which is uniquely situated right at the heart

of the town and provides an excellent location to view The

Watergate on Enniskillen Castle. Built by William Cole, it has

kept watch over the river since 1611.

Alternatively you can end your trip at the Lakeland Forum

Car Park (GR H232 438). Turn right up a side channel of the

river before the Lakeland Forum Building where there is a

slipway and jetty right beside the car park for easy egress.

Rossigh to Muckross

North of Rossigh marks the beginning of an area known by

locals as the ‘broad lough’ which can become very rough in

strong winds - so this is an area best left to the experts or kept for a calm day. The main designated access points are

along the eastern shoreline. There is little infrastructure

until you reach Castle Archdale Marina, the entrance of

which is clearly indicated by a large white cairn. Castle

Archdale Country Park is a hive of activity with a well

equipped campsite and amenities. During the 1939-1945

war, Castle Archdale was a Coastal Command base for

Catalina and Sunderland flying boats. To the north east of

the marina entrance you can paddle to the remains of the

refuelling jetties and service area.

After your trip through modern history a short paddle to

White Island will bring you further back in time to the ruins

of a 13th century church and seven enigmatic stone figures

that look pagan in origin but date to the 9th or 10th century.

From White Island North continue north towards the final

access point at Muckross, a popular bathing area in good

weather, and situated near the mouth of the Glendurragh

River which leads to the picturesque village of Kesh.

There are a few other areas well worth exploring around the

shores of the ‘broad lough’. Boa Island, the largest inland

island in Ireland a few miles west of Muckross is shrouded in

Celtic mystery and home to the Janus Figure (GR H085 619).

This three foot high, two headed, carved Celtic stone with its

bulbous eyes and crossed arms has baffled many people.

The small islands such as Gravel Ridge Island and Stallion

Cowes have the United Kingdom’s only inland colony of

Sandwich terns.

In the north west corner of the Lower Lough is Castle

Caldwell. Although the castle is now ruined, the estate in

which it is situated is well worth exploring. Continuing west

it is possible to paddle to the bustling border village of

Belleek, home to the world famous Belleek Pottery and its

Fine Parian China.

Lough MacNean and links to other waterways

Lying approximately 15km west of Lough Erne, Upper andLower Lough MacNean enjoy a dramatic setting in a valley

excavated by large glaciers millions of years ago. These

long, narrow loughs are flanked by the steep limestone

escarpments of Hanging Rock and Belmore Mountain.

The valley has a rich historical legacy with many significant

archeological sites including raths and early crannogs; at

Cushrush Island the crannog is dated to 500BC. The

wooded shores of Upper Lough MacNean contrast with the

open meadows of the Lower Lough and situated between

the two are the quaint border villages of Becloo and Blacklion

which together provide all necessary visitor amenities.

The Arney River flows from Lower Lough MacNean to the

northern channels of Upper Lough Erne and this is the

advised direction of travel for paddlers wanting to explore

the Loughs as part of a longer expedition along the

Erne system.

From the southern end of Upper Lough Erne it is possible to

paddle along the Woodford River to join the Shannon ErneWaterway, where a series of rivers, lakes and canal cuts

lead to Leitrim in the Republic of Ireland, some 63 km away.

Beyond this, it is possible to follow the waterway south all

the way to Limerick. Most canoeists chose to paddle from

Leitrim to Upper Lough Erne as flow along river sections

favours this direction of travel.

The River Erne, flowing into Upper Lough Erne from

Belturbet, links the main Erne sytem to Lough Oughter and

Lough Gowna in County Cavan. This complex of lakes, the

result of a flooded drumlin landscape, is rich in birdlife

including whooper swans and great crested grebes. The

impressive 13th century Clogh Oughter Castle perched on a

tiny island in Lough Oughter is well worth a visit. The

preferred direction of travel is with the flow from Oughter

to Upper Lough Erne. The local canoe centre at Carratraw

offers trip advice, hire and guided paddles -

www.cavancanoeing.

For the adventurous, it is possible to extend your journey

from Belleek at the north west end of Lower Lough Erne

across the border to Assaroe Lake in the Republic of Ireland

where the Lakeside Centre offers camping and visitor

amenities. Staying close to the right hand bank of the river,

canoeists pass through a disused eel fishery and under an

old railway bridge to arrive at the Cliff power station,

getting out on the right hand (northern) side of the river

where a 200 metre portage allows access to Assaroe Lake.

The river section after Belleek can be fast flowing after

heavy rain so this is best left to experienced paddlers in

such conditions

Enniskillen to Rossigh

The island town of Enniskillen or Inis Ceithleann is named

after an ancient warrior Kathleen who is said to have been

wounded in battle by an arrow and attempted to swim

across the river but never reached the other side.

Passing the Watergate continue downstream under two

large road bridges keeping left under the arches. There can

be some flow here after a reasonable amount of rainfall.

The police station is visible on the right hand riverbank.

As an extension to your trip, you can choose to follow the

river paddling clockwise around the back of the police

station, passing Cherry Island, which will allow you to

circumnavigate the island town.

The main route continues downstream and the river

narrows and becomes flanked by tall trees on the left hand

riverbank. Kingfishers can often be spotted along the banks,

perching on overhanging trees from which they can dive for

food. The Portora Lock Gates (GR H222 453) are situated

along this river section and it is important to keep to the left

bank when paddling downstream as this allows you to use

the channel to pass through the lock.

The river widens again into Lower Lough Erne and winds its

way towards Devenish Island, with its 81 foot 12th century

tower visible well before arrival, therefore offering a great

navigation aid against the countryside background. Deve-

nish Island, originally called Ox Island, was once the centre

of Fermanagh’s cultural and spiritual life. Saint Molaise

founded a monastic settlement here in the 6th Century.

Nearby Trory offers access and a wild camp site.

Continuing north again there are several routes through a

maze of islands, bays and sheltered channels and therefore

route selection should be made according to the prevailing

wind direction. The entrance to Rossigh is marked by a

series of red and white navigation marks. This designated

access point offers camping with a facilities block and a

restaurant. More secluded camping is available on Inish

Davar (GR H179 550) just a short distance off shore.

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Lower Lough ErneLough MacNean

Safety

Canoeing is an adventure sport and as such should be treated with

respect. If you are new to the sport it is advisable to contact the

Canoe Association of Northern Ireland (CANI) or a club where expert

coaching and local knowledge can be provided. Details can be found

at www.cani.org.uk

When taking part in canoeing consider the following safety advice:

1. Attending a recognised training course to develop skills and to

acquire safety and environmental knowledge is very important

for safe paddling.

2. It is recommended that canoeists consult the relevant maps and

obtain up to date information on weather before planning a trip.

3. CANI recommends that paddlers leave details of their journey

with a responsible adult based on the shore.

4. Carry adequate basic safety equipment - spare clothes, extra

food, warm drink, form of shelter, First Aid kit, means of

communication (VHF Radio, mobile phone), torch and whistle.

5. Carry and know how to use a map and compass

6. Wear appropriate buoyancy in the form of a personal lifejacket

or buoyancy aid. Canoe buoyancy should be sufficient to keep

the canoe afloat if you capsize.

7. It is not recommended to canoe alone - three boats is the

minimum required for most rescues.

8. Be aware of other water users such as sailing boats and cruisers.

Canoeists should make allowance for the limitations and needs of

larger craft that are less manoeuvrable and may be restricted to

deep water channels.

9. The Lower Lough can become very rough in strong winds -

carrying rafting poles is a sensible precaution as rafted canoes

are more stable in rough conditions.

10. Channel markers are indicated on the 1:25,000 OSNI Activity Map

and are a useful navigation aid.

Winds and WeatherA comprehensive weather forecast can be obtained from the BBC

website news.bbc.co.uk/weather or from the Met Office

www.metoffice.gov.uk

Non-emergency contactsPolice non-emergency (Northern Ireland) 0845 600 8000

Belfast Coastguard non-emergency +44 (0)28 9146 3933

EmergenciesIn the event of an emergency - Dial 999 or 112 to contact

Coastguard, police and ambulance. Use VHF Radio Channel 16 to

contact Coastguard

Useful MapsMaps available from Enniskillen Tourist Information CentreOSNI Lough Erne Activity Map 1:25,000

OSNI Discoverer Map Series 1:50,000 Sheet 17 Lower Lough Erne

OSNI Discoverer Map Series 1:50,000 Sheet 18 Enniskillen

OSNI Discoverer Map Series 1:50,000 Sheet 27 Upper Lough Erne

OSNI Discoverer Map Series 1:50,000 Sheet 26 Lough Allen

Camping on Lough ErneThere are many official camping and caravan sites situated around

Upper and Lower Lough Erne however only those with shore access

are shown on the map. Contact telephone numbers are provided and

prior booking is advisable, booking fees vary. Rough camping is

possible at many of the access points and is suitable for discreet

overnight camping for small groups only. See www.canoeni.com for

comprehensive information on camping opportunities.

Invasive SpeciesIn order to help protect against the spread of invasive species in

Lough Erne and across Northern Ireland, canoeists should check,

clean and dry clothing and equipment before entering the water and

before travelling to other waterways.

The Watergate, Enniskillen Castle

Janus Figure, Boa Island