In this week’s destination report, we take a look at Fermanagh’s stunning Lakelands. There’s lots to do on the shore of Lough Erne in Enniskillen. We’ve compiled a list of the area’s most enticing attractions so you can make the most of your visit to Fermanagh.
Where to Stay
Glamping at Rossharbour Resort
Rossharbour Resort is the perfect destination to relax and connect with nature, situated on the shore of Lower Lough Erne. Stay the resort’s luxurious lakeside lodges, relax at the riverside lodges or glamp in one of the lakeside cabins.
Lakeside Lodges
Enjoy a break at one of Rossharbour Resort’s lakeside lodges. As well as overlooking the lake, the lodges offer the perfect view of the Lough Navar Mountains.
Each self-catering lodge includes:
- Double bed
- Sofa bed (an additional cost will be added for extra guests)
- Private hot tub
- Kitchenette (including appliances)
- En suite
- Wide screen TV
- Full insulation, double glazed windows and heating
- Outdoor patio furniture
- Bedding and towels
- Use of communal sauna
- Use of on-site wi-fi, games room and play park
This is an adult only area (from 1 November) and is close to bar facilities. There will be live music and noise up until 1am on occasion.
Riverside Lodges
Choose a riverside lodge for the ideal relaxing getaway. Each riverside pod sleeps four people, and can be booked in groups. This area is ideal for groups of 10-20 people.
Each lodge includes:
- Use of a 14 seater spa pool and eight seater Sauna
- Fully glazed gable end to soak up lake and river views
- En suite
- Kitchenette (including appliances)
- Wide screen TV
- Double bed for couples, plus a double sofa bed
- All bedding & towels provided
- Use of on-site wi-fi, games room and play park
- Fully insulated with double glazing and heating
This is an adult only area and is close to bar facilities. There will be live music and noise up until 1am on occasion.
Lakeside Glamping Cabins
These cabins sleep up to three people and are ideal for group bookings of 10-15 adults.
Each cabin includes:
- Full insulation and electric heating
- Kettle, toaster, fridge, microwave and TV
- Outdoor table and chairs
- Separate communal toilet and shower area
- Double bed for couples & double camp bed
- All bedding and bathroom towels provided
- Complimentary use of on site facilities play park, games room and WiFi
- Use of 6 seater communal hot tub and six seater sauna
This is an adults only area (from 1 November) and is close to bar facilities. There will be live music and noise until 1.00am on occasion.
Lusty Beg Resort
Take a ferry across Lough Erne to the enchanting four-star Lusty Beg Resort, situated on the remote Lusty Beg Island. The resort has plenty to offer, including a beautiful landscape, accommodation, dining and activities for the whole family.
Accommodation
Plan your stay the way you like it, with a selection of accommodation options to choose from:
Courtyard Ensuite Bedrooms – Choose an ensuite guest room, offering single, double, twin, triple and family occupancy. The rooms are kitted out with a TV, iron and board, hairdryer, study desk and tea/coffee making facilities. These guest rooms are also dog friendly, with a surcharge of €20 for each furry friend.
Island Cabins – The open plan island cabins each include a double bed, kitchenette and a private verandah. The cabins also have their own wine cooler, microwave, toaster and a kitchen sink.
Lodges and Chalets – Enjoy a self-catering lodge or cabin by the lake. Surrounded by heavy woodland, each home includes a fully fitted kitchen with a washing machine, dishwasher, fridge, oven and microwave. The also have their own living/dining area and a verandah.
The resort’s self-catering houses come in a variety of sizes, sleeping two, four, five or six people.
Dining
Visit the Island Restaurant for a refreshing beverage or a meal made with fresh local produce. Choose a dining area that suits you, with the option between the warm rustic bar, outdoor dining area and relaxing Pineroom Restaurant.
Activities and Facilities
The Island Swimming Pool and Spa
Relax at the Island’s spa, offering a selection of soothing organic treatments to help you connect with the charming surroundings of the resort. Treatment options include facials, massages, baths, scrubs, manicures and pedicures.
Lusty Beg Activities
There’s adventure around every corner on Lusty Beg Island. Individually tailored activities and group packages are available to book during your stay. Some of the exciting activities available include:
- Clay Pigeon Shooting
- Archery
- Canoeing
- Water Safaris in the Hawk Rib Boat
- Nature trail, to be enjoyed at your leisure
Fairy Trail
Lusty Beg has its very own fairy trail, so the little ones can embark on a magical adventure during their stay.
What to Do
Stairway to Heaven: Cuilcagh Mountain Walk
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail –nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven Walk– meanders through one of Northern Ireland’s largest blanket bogs. The 1.6 kilometer trail consists of boardwalks and steep staircases, leading to the mountain’s viewing platform. Take a walk through Cuilcagh’s stunning landscape before looking out on the breathtaking view from above.
Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre
Since 1857, the village of Belleek in Enniskillen has been known for its rich history in pottery making. The unique and elegant creations have for generations given the village much to boast about. The Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre brings almost two centuries of history and culture together in one place for you to enjoy.
Head to the Belleek Pottery Visitor centre for a day out packed with activities. Some of the facilities at the visitor centre include:
- Belleek Pottery Museum – Take a look at Belleek’s history in pottery making at the Pottery Museum, containing artefacts dating back to 1857.
- Bloomfield’s Trail animated Children’s Tour – Named after Belleek Pottery founder John Caldwell Bloomfield, the animated children’s tour keeps the kids busy while making their way through the museum. Children are provided with a trail map which they must follow in order to locate a series of 16 hand drawn, colourful ceramics at key points on the pottery tour.
- ONE SIXTY photographic exhibition – The story of 160 years of Belleek Pottery told through photographs.
- Belleek Retail Showroom
- Rose Isle Garden and Picnic Area
- Audio Visual Presentation available in 8 languages
- Tea rooms – The Bellek Tea Room is the ideal place to stop for a refreshment and a bite to eat during your visit. The upper mezzanine overlooks the River Erne and food is served on Belleek tableware.
Where to Eat
The Black Cat Cove
While you’re in the area, stop off at The Black Cat Cove, Belleek’s family-run traditional Irish pub. The pub’s restaurant serves food and beverages all day until 9pm.
Our Editor Joan Scales visited the Lakelands on Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September. Read all about her fishing trip and the flavoursome menu served at the enchanting Festival Lough Erne here.
