Lough Navar Forest wilderness guide
Forest Park · County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

Lough Navar Forest

Lough Navar Forest, located in County Fermanagh, is renowned for its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and scenic walking trails, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Forest Park2,6002+ Trails
DesignationForest Park
Total Wilderness Area2,600
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Lough Navar Forest

Lough Navar Forest, located in County Fermanagh, is renowned for its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and scenic walking trails, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lough Navar Forest Park, part of the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, is a beautiful expanse in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The park is famous for its dramatic views across Lough Erne and the distinct landscapes shaped by ancient limestone. The forest encompasses diverse habitats, supporting a variety of flora and fauna, including red squirrels and a range of bird species. Offering a network of walking trails, it caters to hikers of all skill levels with historic trails like the Magho Cliffs Walk, providing panoramic views over Lower Lough Erne and the surrounding countryside. The forest is deeply imbued with history, showcasing remnants from different periods, including Neolithic stone circles. Visitors can engage in numerous recreational activities, from hiking to wildlife spotting and scenic drives along the dramatic cliffs. Its rich ecology, combined with captivating natural beauty and historical intrigue, draws nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Field Guide · Forest Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lough Navar Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Magho Cliffs✦ Scenic views over Lough Erne✦ Red squirrel habitat✦ Neolithic stone circles
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lough Navar Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lough Navar Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lough Navar Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Lough Navar Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lough Navar Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lough Navar Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access year-round with no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lough Navar Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lough Navar Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Belleek, County Fermanagh
⌖ 4.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Belleek, County Fermanagh

Belleek is a peaceful riverside village perfect for paddling, hiking, and birdwatching adventures along the scenic River Erne. With its quiet trails and historic charm, it offers a refreshing outdoor escape in County Fermanagh.

Late spring to early autumn
Explore Town
Derrygonnelly, Northern Ireland
⌖ 7.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derrygonnelly, Northern Ireland

Derrygonnelly is a peaceful village in Northern Ireland’s Fermanagh Lakelands, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and fishing amid stunning lakes and mountains. Its tranquil setting offers a perfect base for nature lovers seeking quiet outdoor adventure.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Ballyshannon, County Donegal
⌖ 8.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ballyshannon, County Donegal

Ballyshannon is a welcoming riverside town in County Donegal, perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking, paddling, cycling, and fishing amid rugged landscapes and rich Irish heritage.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Kesh, Northern Ireland
⌖ 10.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kesh, Northern Ireland

Kesh is a peaceful lakeside village in Northern Ireland’s Fermanagh Lakelands, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and enjoying tranquil nature away from crowds.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Laghey, County Donegal, Ireland
⌖ 11.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laghey, County Donegal, Ireland

Laghey is a peaceful Donegal village ideal for outdoor lovers seeking scenic hikes, cycling routes, and paddling adventures near forest and coast. It’s a quiet gateway to Donegal’s raw natural beauty and cultural charm.

Late spring to early autumn
Explore Town
Finner, County Donegal, Ireland
⌖ 11.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Finner, County Donegal, Ireland

Finner, County Donegal, is a coastal adventurer’s gem offering hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching in unspoiled Irish wilderness. Its rugged bay and serene forest trails make it a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet immersion.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lough Navar Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Private Groups
ADVEXPEDITION
Belleek, Northern Ireland
AttractionADV Bookable

Private Groups

Discover the artistry and history of Irish ceramics at Belleek Pottery. Take a guided tour, try your hand at pottery, and learn about Ireland’s rich craft traditions.

AttractionFor all ages • 30 Minutes • History Going Back to 1857Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Morning Coffee and Guided Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Belleek, Enniskillen
AttractionADV Bookable

Morning Coffee and Guided Tour

Discover the artistic heart of Belleek with a morning coffee and guided walking tour at the Belleek Pottery & Visitor Centre. Perfect for history buffs and craft lovers, this experience combines scenic walks, cultural insights, and delicious local brews. Read on to find out more about this charming Irish adventure!

AttractionCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Intermediate & Advanced 1½ hr Beach Ride
ADVEXPEDITION
Bundoran, County Donegal
Guided TourADV Bookable

Intermediate & Advanced 1½ hr Beach Ride

Experience the rush of cantering along Tullan Strand in County Donegal with expert guides at Donegal Equestrian Centre. Discover why this adventure is a top outdoor activity in Ireland’s rugged coast.

Guided TourAges 10+ • Only for riders with experience that can canter.Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Half Hour Starter Lesson
ADVEXPEDITION
Bundoran, County Donegal
AttractionADV Bookable

Half Hour Starter Lesson

Discover the joys of horseback riding at Donegal Equestrian Centre with a beginner-friendly half-hour lesson. Perfect for all ages, this experience offers a safe introduction amid stunning Irish landscapes.

AttractionAges 4+ • 30 minutes • Suitable for riders with little or no experienceCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Intermediate & Advanced 2 Hour Beach Ride
ADVEXPEDITION
Bundoran, County Donegal
Guided TourADV Bookable

Intermediate & Advanced 2 Hour Beach Ride

Experience the wild beauty of Donegal’s coastline on a guided beach and dune horseback ride. Perfect for confident riders seeking a memorable outdoor experience amid dramatic scenery.

Guided TourAges 12+ • Beach ride for riders with experience that can canter/gallopCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Pony Pals
ADVEXPEDITION
Bundoran, County Donegal
AttractionADV Bookable

Pony Pals

Bring your young horse enthusiasts to Pony Pals at Donegal Equestrian Centre for a fun and confidence-building introduction to riding and pony care. Perfect for children aged 6 and up, this engaging activity combines hands-on grooming with beginner riding lessons.

AttractionFun way to introduce children to riding * Open to children from 6 years oldCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Dune Gallop: A 1½‑Hour Beginner Ride Along Tullan Strand
ADVEXPEDITION
Bundoran, County Donegal
Guided TourADV Bookable

Dune Gallop: A 1½‑Hour Beginner Ride Along Tullan Strand

A supervised 1½ hour experience from Donegal Equestrian Centre that begins with a half‑hour arena assessment before traversing the Sand Dune Trail alongside Tullan Strand; this guide clarifies who the ride suits, the course, and booking essentials.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip