Fermanagh Lakelands: stunning scenery and attractions

Start off your break to Fermanagh with a tour of one of the country’s finest National Trust properties, Florence Court House. This 18th century estate has extensive woodland trails, scenic gardens and a children’s play area, all set against the backdrop of Cuilcagh mountain. Take a house tour to discover the home of the former Earls of Enniskillen before sampling some home baking in their traditional tea rooms.

Move on just a few miles to the spectacular Cuilcagh mountain, part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. A wonderful, scenic looped drive will take you to the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail which leads walkers to the summit of the mountain using the much publicised boardwalk, otherwise known as Fermanagh’s stairway to heaven. The walk is a 14.8km roundtrip, and a must-do activity whilst visiting this part of the world.

No visit to Cuilcagh would be complete without a tour of the Marble Arch Caves. This award-winning tourist attraction provides a 75-minute walk through one of Europe’s most exquisite showcaves.

After an activity-packed day it’s time to check into one of Fermanagh’s wonderful hotels for some comfort, relaxation and good food. If it’s a spa you are after, to help you unwind, try the Lough Erne Resort or Killyhevlin Hotel. Both have fantastic lakeshore settings where you can sit, relax and marvel at the stunning views.

Enniskillen: the island town

Enniskillen is uniquely situated in the centre of the county, between Upper and Lower Lough Erne, and is Ireland’s only island town. In its most romantic interpretation, Enniskillen derives its name from a translation of the Irish 'Inis Ceithlean', meaning Island of Kathleen. The town has a unique feel to it with lots of quaint shops, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and pubs.

The town was established beside Enniskillen Castle, built 600 years ago by the Gaelic Maguires. The castle is situated along the banks of the River Erne and is the perfect place to begin exploring Fermanagh’s rich history. Home to Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum, visitors to Enniskillen Castle can also enjoy seven new galleries which tell the story of the local area from prehistoric to modern times.

For a further taste of Enniskillen’s unique history visit Castle Coole National Trust on the edge of the town, the neo-classical masterpiece, completed in 1798, captures the elegance and opulence of its era. The mansion is set in a beautiful landscaped park with scenic walks to enjoy.

Take the opportunity to get on the water by hiring a boat from Erne Boat Hire, conveniently located in the town centre. The boats are an ideal way to view the wildlife of Lough Erne, or to take in the many historical sites in the area. If captaining your own boat seems like too much then take a trip on board Erne Water Taxi for a luxury chauffeur-driven trip around Lough Erne; pick-up and drop-off can be arranged from many of the Lakeside hotels or any accessible jetty.

Or jump on the MV Kestrel for one of their scheduled 90-minute tours, which takes in Devenish Island, one of Fermanagh’s most interesting historical sites.

Not only is there lots to see and do in Enniskillen, you'll also find a range of fantastic accommodation. The Westville Hotel, Belmore Court Motel and Enniskillen Hotel are all excellent choices for close proximity to the town centre, where you can sample plenty of the town's local restaurants and pubs. Blakes of the Hollow traditional pub is an excellent spot for a drink, to listen to some Irish music and see the famous Game of Thrones door. Don't forget to check out the Ardhowen Theatre, which offers a wide-ranging entertainment programme.

The Lower Lough Erne heritage loop

Start your tour of Lower Lough Erne at Belleek Pottery, this world famous visitor attraction has just celebrated 160 years in business and is Ireland’s oldest working pottery. Visitors get the chance to see, hear and touch the product throughout the tour, as well as visiting the beautiful museum and showroom.

Explore Castle Caldwell for some beautiful scenic walks right along the shores of Lower Lough Erne before moving on to Lusty Beg Island, this unique 75-acre island paradise offers a range of accommodation, spa and activities as well as exceptional food.

Steeped in history and heritage, the Lower Lough is home to the Dreenan figure which has been sitting in the rural graveyard at Caldragh since 1841. This two-figured statue has given historians and locals much to argue about over the years. Just a short distance away visit the Drumskinney Stone Circle, which dates back to the new stone age. The purpose of the circle, made up of 39 stones and a small round cairn, is unknown, but probably involved that of religious practices, astronomical observations and calendar functions.

If you have access to a boat why not do a bit of island-hopping and visit some other heritage sites including Devenish, Inishmacsaint, White Island and Tully Castle. For some jaw-dropping scenic views, and a fantastic array of walks and fishing opportunities, make a stop at Lough Navar Forest and the Magho Cliffs, which is part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.

A great range of accommodation is on offer along the Lower Lake, the 5-star Lough Erne Resort which boasts a championship golf course, beautiful spa and award winning dining is a real luxury choice. Or for a homely feel with plenty of craic and atmosphere, there is the family-run Mahons Hotel in Irvinestown. The Manor House Country Hotel  is the perfect country retreat, with superb views of Lough Erne, and dates back to the 17th century. This family owned property combines old world charm with modern hotel luxury.