Overview
Situated just five kilometres north-west of Derrygonnelly, Lough Navar Forest is a quiet, expansive woodland that forms a key part of the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark in County Fermanagh. Spanning 2,600 hectares, the forest is a patchwork of blanket bog, heath, open lakes, native oak-ash woodland and managed conifer plantations. It merges seamlessly with neighbouring woods like Carrigan, Big Dog, Conagher and Ballintempo, creating one of Northern Ireland’s largest continuous forest blocks. A 10-kilometre scenic drive winds through the site, stopping at designated viewpoints, picnic areas and the main car park on Glennasheever Road.
History & Heritage
The landscape around Lough Navar holds layers of human history and geological transformation. From the Carrick Lough Viewpoint, visitors can spot the submerged remains of an ancient crannog. These timber-piled island farmsteads date back to the Late Bronze Age and were likely used for both domestic living and defence during the early Christian period. The terrain itself was sculpted by the last ice age, leaving behind drumlin hills, limestone outcrops and the dramatic Cliffs of Magho, a 5.5-mile limestone escarpment that marks the forest’s southern boundary.
Near the drive’s exit stands a historic sweat house, a small stone structure traditionally used for therapeutic heat treatments. Just across the road, the Correl Glen Nature Trail enters the Largalinny National Nature Reserve, a protected area known for rare flora and nearly every native Irish butterfly species.
WWII Memorials
At the Magho Viewpoint car park, two stone markers honour aircrew who died over Lough Erne during the Second World War. One commemorates a Sunderland bomber (W4036) from 201 Squadron RAF, which crashed on 18 November 1943. The other marks a Catalina flying boat (JX 242) from 202 Squadron RAF, lost on 20 November 1944. Both squadrons operated from nearby bases at Castle Archdale and Killadeas, tying the forest to the wider aviation history of the Erne basin.
Walking Trails & Viewpoints
The forest offers a network of marked paths ranging from short family strolls to more demanding hikes. Most trails are free to access and well-signposted.
Blackslee Waterfall Walk (2.5 miles / 4.5 km) drops into the conifer-heavy Blackslee section of the woods. The route follows a quiet track to a small sandstone waterfall, passing through glades that fill with the scent of wood sorrel and wild garlic in spring. Keep an eye out for red deer, foxes and nesting birds.
Lough Achork Walk (1.5 miles / 2.5 km) circles a sheltered lake that eventually feeds into the Sillees River. The calm waters support otters, swans and a reliable brown trout population, making it a quiet spot for a picnic or a rest.
Lakes Walk (7 miles / 11 km) is a longer circuit threading through boggy clearings and small lochs. It’s particularly good for spotting peatland birds and enjoying the open, windswept character of the upper forest.
Magho Cliffs Walk (1.5 miles / 2.5 km) is the most physically demanding route, climbing the limestone escarpment to deliver expansive views over Lower Lough Erne. The path is steep in places and requires sturdy footwear.
For those who prefer shorter stops, the Carrick Lough Viewpoint offers a quick walk to a platform overlooking the lake and crannog remains. The Aghameelan Viewpoint opens up to wide panoramas across County Fermanagh and County Cavan, with the limestone peaks of Knockmore visible on clear days. The Magho Cliffs Viewpoint sits 300 metres above the waterline, looking west toward counties Sligo, Tyrone and Donegal, and framing the distant coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Wildlife & Landscape
Lough Navar’s mix of habitats supports a steady rotation of wildlife. The only native Irish deer, the red deer, frequently grazes the open heathland, while pine martens and foxes keep to the denser conifer belts. Birdwatchers will find buzzards, sparrowhawks, crossbills and teal throughout the year, with waders appearing around the lakes during migration seasons.
The forest floor puts on a show in spring, when carpets of bluebells, wood anemones and wild garlic bloom beneath the broadleaf canopy. Upland heather, speedwell, aquilegia and scabious cling to the limestone cliffs. Butterfly activity peaks in late spring and early summer, with red admirals, speckled woods and peacocks commonly seen on the roadside verges where delayed mowing allows wildflowers to set seed. Autumn brings a quieter, more atmospheric visit, as the bog and woodland turn to deep russets and golds.
Practical Information
- Parking & Entry: The main car park on Glennasheever Road (BT93 3BW) is free and includes a few disabled bays, picnic tables and waste bins. Entry to the forest and all trails is free.
- Opening Hours: The forest is accessible daily from 10:00 until dusk. Note that forestry operations occasionally require temporary trail or road closures; always check the notice boards at the entrance for current updates.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome on most routes but must be kept under close control, particularly near livestock grazing areas and during bird nesting season. Please carry out all waste.
- Accessibility: The main car park and short paved sections near the Carrick Lough Viewpoint are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The majority of walking trails cross uneven ground, boggy terrain or steep inclines and are not wheelchair accessible. Guide dogs are permitted throughout.
- Fishing: Lough Achork and nearby Lough Slawn are stocked with brown trout. Anglers need a valid DAERA Game Fishing Permit and a rod licence. The season runs from 1 March to 31 October.
Nearby Attractions
Lough Navar Forest sits at the edge of a wider network of historic and natural sites. The adjoining Ballintempo Forest is just a short drive away and features the well-preserved Aghanaglack Dual-Court Tomb. To the east, the village of Belcoo and Castle Archdale Country Park offer further walks along the shores of Lower Lough Erne. If you’re exploring the geopark, the Marble Arch Caves are easily reachable and pair well with a woodland visit. Plan your trip for a late spring afternoon to catch the bluebells in full bloom, and always check the forestry notice board before heading out for the latest trail status.