Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Lough Conn & Cullin Special Area of Conservation (SAC) encompasses the large freshwater lake Lough Conn and the adjoining Nephin Beg mountain range, including the prominent Cullin Hills in County Mayo, western Ireland. This SAC is designated under the EU Habitats Directive for its significant habitats and species protection. Geographically, it covers a dynamic landscape of expansive lakes, blanket bogs, heathlands, and upland areas reaching elevations over 700 meters. Ecologically, it hosts a rich variety of native flora, including rare mosses and liverworts, and fauna such as otters, salmon, and important bird species like whooper swans, golden plover, and the hen harrier. The area's expansive waters and wetlands serve as critical breeding and feeding grounds, making it a hotspot for ornithologists and naturalists alike. The surrounding uplands provide essential ecosystem services, including water filtration and carbon storage through the peatland systems. Historically, the landscape reflects centuries of low-intensity farming and fishing traditions, contributing to its well-preserved habitats and cultural heritage. Recreation at Lough Conn & Cullin SAC centers around birdwatching, angling in the lake renowned for brown trout and salmon, and hiking trails that explore the scenic Cullin Hills and adjacent boglands. Visitors are drawn to the tranquil setting, with opportunities for landscape photography, nature study, and quiet solitude. The area’s appeal lies in its combination of rich biodiversity, relatively unspoiled landscapes, and the interplay of aquatic and upland environments, offering a diverse outdoor experience in the west of Ireland.
