Embrace A Giant Spirit at Lough Erne

Looking for somewhere to nourish your spirit? Discover the tranquil islands of County Fermanagh’s Lough Erne, where ancient Celts, Christian monks and Vikings have all left their mark.

Upper and Lower Lough Erne have more than a hundred islands dotted throughout their waters and the best way to see them is to set sail.

Erne Water Taxi, County Fermanagh. 

The best way to really see the Fermanagh Lakelands is from the water, and if your boat is skippered by Barry Flanagan with Erne Water Taxi, you’ll see and hear so much more – from tales of island life, to the distinctive call of a moorhen. There is no set itinerary and countless possibilities.

Starting from Enniskillen, Ireland’s only island town, Barry will choose your route, based on his knowledge of Lough Erne’s changing currents, seasons and movements of wildlife. As you travel, he will show you secretive creatures such as kingfishers, and intrigue you with poignant stories of the now largely uninhabited islands, from the Bronze Age to the 1980s.

Devenish Island. 

The early Christian Monastery and round tower at Devenish is one of Ireland’s most iconic historical sites. The monastery is beautifully located on an island on Lower Lough Erne and is only accessible by boat or Erne water taxi. Devenish Monastic Site was founded in the 6th century by Saint Molaise on one of Lough Erne’s many islands. During its history it has been raided by Vikings (837AD), burned (1157AD) and flourished (Middle Ages) as a parish church site and St Mary’s Augustine Priory.

There are ruins from different time periods on site; the earliest being St Molaise house (small church) and the round tower which are 12th Century. A second church from the 13th Century, which was extended over time, was the lower church. St Mary’s Augustinian Priory on the hilltop has been dated from the middle 15th Century to early 16th Century with a church, tower and small cloister. In the graveyard stands a distinctive, unusual, intricately carved stone cross from the 15th Century. Please note Devenish Island is only accessible by water.

A Night Under The Stars.

During your adventure sample some gourmet food and drink along the way. Enjoy fine dining at The Catalina Restaurant in the Lough Erne Resort, delightful local produce at the restaurant at Finn Lough, or dinner with a view at Lusty Beg Island.

And enjoy a taste sensation and tour of The Boatyard Distillery near Enniskillen, and learn how the team produces its fine spirits, while discovering the secret behind its famous ‘Érainn’ copper still.

You might add something extra special to your adventure with a night under the stars in one of the Bubble Domes at Finn Lough,

There are so many special places to see in Fermanagh. 

Discover the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, where you can explore a underground system of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and cavernous chambers. After exploring the caves, maybe take the short walk down the road to the start of the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail, known as the Stairway to Heaven because of the wooden boardwalk that takes you right to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain.

Or take a stroll around Enniskillen with it’s rich history. Enniskillen Castle was first built in the 15th century and has played a key role in the town ever since. The castle holds two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum explores the county’s traditional rural life and local crafts; the Inniskillings Museum covers the military history of the region, displaying memorabilia dating back to the 17th century.

While in Fermanagh you might like to step into the world of pottery with a visit to Belleek Pottery, Ireland’s oldest working pottery factory with over 160 years in business. This top-class Visitor Centre offers a fascinating insight into the world of Belleek and the process that takes place to deliver these world famous products.

Another lovely option in County Fermanagh is to discover the splendor of Florence Court. The Georgian mansion sits among vast gardens and woodlands, and prides itself on being fully sustainable.

Embrace a Giant Spirit. 

Embrace the Irish Spirit on a journey of Ireland and the Fermanagh lakelands with Specialized Travel Services.

Specialized Travel Services will assist you in planning your customized tour of the hidden gems of Ireland.  Take a look at some of our private chauffeur drive vacations on our website for additional suggestions of what to visit on your vacation in the Emerald Isle.

To experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere that surrounds the Island of Ireland, contact Specialized Travel Services by filling in the Contact form Or by email: newyork@jeremyd50.sg-host.com. 

Just some small steps to a Giant Adventure!

Note: Featured image at the top of the blog is of Lough Erne County Fermanagh © Tourism Ireland