Ballintempo Forest – Aghanaglack Walk

Overview

Ballintempo Forest stretches across the western part of County Fermanagh, forming part of the 8,500 ha continuous woodland that dominates Northern Ireland’s largest forestry tract. The forest lies within both the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark and the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, making it a hotspot for geology, archaeology and wildlife. Its most recognisable landmark is Brimstone Rock, a massive sandstone outcrop that commands panoramic views of Cuilcagh Mountain (665 m) and the surrounding lakelands. The Aghanaglack Walk is a 7 mi (11 km) circular, moderate‑grade trail that weaves through conifer tracks, open blanket bog, wooded gullies and rocky crags. Access is free, though a modest charge may apply at the main car‑park on Boho Road.

History & Heritage

The landscape of Ballintempo Forest is the product of millennia of natural and human activity. Blanket bog, which dominates much of the terrain, began forming 5‑6 000 years ago when water‑logged conditions slowed plant decay. Historically the bog supplied peat for domestic fuel; the skill of turf‑cutting is still demonstrated each summer when locals harvest turf.

Ballintempo is one of five adjoining woods – Carrigan, Big Dog, Conagher and Lough Navar – that together create Northern Ireland’s largest continuous forest area. The Ulster Way long‑distance trail passes through the forest and links to the Aghanaglack circular walk, offering walkers the option of extending their hike.

At the heart of the walk stands the Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb, a rare Neolithic burial monument dating from roughly 4 000–2 000 BC. The tomb consists of two small courtyards at either end of a stone‑lined gallery, originally roofed with large slabs and covered by earth to create an imposing mound. Its elevated position offers dramatic vistas of the rugged Boho Mountains.

Brimstone Rock—despite its name—contains no sulphur. Local folklore records that the outcrop served as a mass rock during the mid‑17th century, providing a clandestine altar for Catholic worship when public services were outlawed.

Getting There

By car – From Enniskillen follow the A46 towards Belleek, turn left onto the B81 Derrygonnelly road and continue past Boho Community Centre (≈6.5 km). Stay on the Boho road for a further 5 km, then turn right at the sign for the Aghanaglack Court Tomb. The small car‑park sits at the forest entrance on Boho Road (postcode BT74 5DA).

From Belcoo – The car‑park is about 5 miles (8 km) away via Aughrim Road and Gaedrum Road, following the signs to the chambered cairn.

Occasionally sections of the forest are closed for forestry works; look out for safety signage and check the nidirect page for any temporary restrictions.

Wildlife & Seasonal Highlights

• Birds of prey – Merlin and hen‑harrier are regular summer visitors; early mornings give the best chance of sightings.
• Butterflies – Spring brings orange‑tip butterflies flitting over the bog’s wildflowers.
• Peat‑cutting demonstrations – Local volunteers demonstrate traditional turf‑cutting each summer, offering a glimpse into historic fuel practices.
• Wild strawberries – Late summer may reveal clusters of wild strawberries near the bog’s edge.
• Irish hares – Though elusive, hares are known to frequent the upland areas.

What to See & Do

The walk begins at the Boho Road car‑park. A black‑marked route leads onto forest tracks that climb gently, revealing the first glimpse of Cuilcagh’s stepped profile. The trail soon reaches Brimstone Rock, where a bench invites a pause to soak in the panorama. Descending, the path skirts the reed‑lined Lough Blockent before turning toward the Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb, where interpretive panels explain its construction and significance. The circuit then loops back through open bog and conifer, offering further wildlife spotting opportunities before returning to the car‑park.

Practical Information

Enjoy a day of natural beauty, ancient history and sweeping upland vistas on the Aghanaglack Walk through Ballintempo Forest.