Ballintempo Forest: Aghanaglack Walk
Aghanaglack is part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. This circular walk within Ballintempo Forest in west Fermanagh is largely along forest tracks and passes a classic Dual Court Tomb which is managed by the NI Environment Agency. In its original state the tomb was roofed with large stone slabs and then covered with stones and possibly earth. An elevated site amongst the conifers, it was constructed when there were fewer surrounding trees, allowing for spectacular views across the area.
Ballintempo Forest forms one section of the largest continuous forestry track in Northern Ireland. This forest is steeped in geology, local myths and wildlife; so there is something for everyone. Keep a look out for upland birds such as merlin and hen harrier.
County Fermanagh
Distance 7.8 miles
OS Map Sheet 17
Terrain All types of terrain
Nearest Town Enniskillen
Route Shape Circular
Grid Reference H093430
Route Type Forest, Woodland
From the car park, follow the black route, as indicated by the way marked posts. The route takes you along forest tracks with clear views opening out along the way. The landscape throughout the first section of the walk is predominately blanket bog, previously hand cut for turf, an age old tradition on the island of Ireland. Continuing further along the track there are glimpses of Cuilcagh Mountain, Fermanagh’s highest point, with its distinctive plateau-shape and stepped profile. Soon, you will pass Brimstone Rock a large outcrop of sandstone. It is commonly held that Brimstone Rock was used as a mass rock during the seventeenth century when Catholic worship was declared illegal. This is the perfect spot to take a moment to rest on the bench provided and enjoy the forest and lakeside views. Continue downhill to skirt the reedy shoreline of Lough Blockent and visit Aghnaglack Court Tomb itself. Simply follow the meandering forest track through the remaining coniferous plantation back to the car park.
Please note: This Forest is managed sustainably by NI Forest Service. The walk is situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversions and closure from time to time.
Arguably the most intriguing feature along the walk is the dual court tomb at Aghanaglack. This ritual burial site dates from the Neolithic period between 4,000 and 2,000 years B.C.
From Enniskillen, follow the A46 Shore road to Belleek, take the left fork onto the B81 Derrygonnelly road and proceed to the first road signed for Boho on the left. Continue up through Boho and at the crossroads turn left following the signs for Belcoo. After approximately 6km, turn right at a sign to Aghnaglack Court Tomb and follow the road until you come to the forestry car park.
From Belcoo, head towards Enniskillen and turn left onto the road signposted for Boho. Continue until reaching a T-Junction and turn right. Then approximately 200m along this road turn left following the signs for Boho. Continue along this road for approximately 3km and then turn left at the sign to Aghnaglack Court Tomb and the car park.
Translink – journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
Car parking available, nearest amenities Belcoo.
Grade 5
- There may not be a formalised path, and variable, single file trails are to be expected.
- Gradients and cross slope could be expected to be steep and not limited.
- Obstacles and surface breaks of greater than 75mm measured across the line of the path to be expected.
- Overhanging branches are possible. Passing places and rest areas may not be formalised or provided.
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Walk Route
Ballintempo Forest: Aghanaglack Walk
The walk itself is amazing, it’s just extremely badly signposted, done the walk yesterday, got lost for hours,
Fantastic walk! Would highly recommend to anyone.
Did this walk this morning with hubby and two dogs. Lovely views, men collecting turf and so peaceful