Castle Archdale’s story unfolds
Castle Archdale Forest is a 520-hectare mixed broadleaved and coniferous lowland forest and it is one of the finest spots to appreciate the stunning beauty of Lower Lough Erne. The forest is a richly varied one in terms of views and features and includes ruined Castles, WWII docks and buildings, ancient woodland, millennium forest and views over Lower Lough Erne to White Island, Davy’s Island and further afield.
Trail 1 – Woodland and Riverside Walk
A red waymarked circular route through thickets of woodland and commercial forest. The walk meanders along the course of a woodland river, the river sparkles on its journey to Lough Erne, filling your ears with the tranquil sounds of rushing water. If you are lucky, you may spot a kingfisher skimming over the waters in its search for food.
Leaving the river, the path takes you up through the forest driveway winding its way back to the car park. The roadside verges and wonderful wildflowers attract butterflies such as red admiral, speckled wood, and peacock.
Trail 2 – Tom’s Island Walk
The first part of the walk passes through a corridor of forest before opening up to reveal the tranquil shores of Lough Formal. Continue along the shoreline of Lough Formal and you will link onto a grassy path, which leads onwards up a slope of heather and sandstone boulders to the top of Formal More. From here stunning views of Lough Melvin, Donegal Bay and Cuilcagh Mountain can be enjoyed.