Clough Oughter Castle towers from amid a setting of farmlands and wooded hills which end at a water's edge coloured by purple-hued rushes, striking yellow water lilies, and white swans dotting the dark shadows of the shoreline. The lakes surrounding the castle are a favoured haunt of the great blue heron, the great crested grebe as well as those taking a Ireland vacation.
Famed as the site where the beloved Bishop Bedell was imprisoned and died, Clough Oughter Castle is a circular tower, which stands on a man-made island, a crannog. Believed to have been built in the early 13th century, the castle belonged to the largest clan in Ireland-the O'Reillys-for almost 300 years. A stronghold and fortress for the family, it remained in their control until the 1600's when, during the Ulster Plantation and takeover by the British, it became a Royal castle. In 1641, it was recaptured by the O'Reillys and remained theirs until it was badly damaged and subsequently abandoned in 1653.
It's romantic ancient history it's a much frequented attraction for those venturing on a honeymoon in Ireland.Though the castle can be easily seen in a drive along the shoreline of Lough Erne, an hour's boat ride along the waterway, with a local guide, offers a natural respite in which to appreciate the abundant wildlife and croppings of purple rushes and yellow lilies. For the very fortunate nature enthusiast, perhaps there will even be a sighting of the rare, cobalt blue damsel fly.
A photographer's paradise, a nature enthusiast's dream, a historian's retreat, Clough Oughter Castle, standing empty for 350 years, worn by time and weather, is at once mystical and mysterious. Its history is unique. Its presence, undeniably powerful. A magic lurks here in the shadows..
Contact: www.trinityisland.com or www.cavantourism.com to find additional information or arrange a guided boat tour.
How to get there:
From Dublin: N3 to Cavan Town; from Belfast, A3 to Cavan Town. From Cavan Town, R198 to Crossdooney then R199 to Killeshandra. Well signposted.
Written by Joy Davis - Summer of Travel 2007