Arch Caves Global Geopark. It's a landscape of drumlins, forests, and a maze of interconnected loughs. For the visitor, it offers a chance to genuinely escape, while for locals, it's a constant reminder of the stunning nature on their doorstep.
But with so much natural beauty, where do you start?
We've compiled a list of five must-do activities in and around Killeshandra. And just as importantly, we've identified the perfect local hub to plan your adventure and refuel after it: the town's beloved Fika 33. After all, no great adventure ever started (or finished) on an empty stomach.
What to do: Hire a kayak and explore the lough from the water, navigating between the small islands. If you prefer to stay on land, the forest is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails that suit all abilities. The paths wind through towering pines and mature beech trees, opening up to breathtaking, sudden views of the water.
Refuel Stop: Killykeen is just a short 10-minute drive from Killeshandra. Before you go, stop at Fika 33 to grab a takeaway coffee and a freshly baked scone to enjoy by the lough.
What to do: The castle is only accessible by water. You can hire a boat or join a local kayak tour to paddle out to it. Its solitary, romantic silhouette makes it one of the most photographed sites in Cavan. Getting up close gives you a powerful sense of the history that has unfolded on these waters.
What to do: Pick up a guide for the Killeshandra Town Trail, which starts in the town centre. This gentle walking tour guides you past the historic Market House, the old Jacobean church, and the beautifully preserved doorways and streetscapes. It's a wonderful, relaxing way to spend an hour and appreciate the town's unique character.
Refuel Stop: The trail loops you right back to the main street, where the best café Killeshandra has, Fika 33, is waiting. It's the perfect opportunity to dive in for a proper fika (a coffee and cake break) and discuss the history you've just uncovered.
What to do: Even if you're not a seasoned angler, you can hire a boat and a guide for a day. There are numerous jetties and fishing stands dotted around the lakes, many of which are accessible for all abilities. It's a peaceful, meditative way to connect with the landscape.
What to do: Pack a flask and just... drive. Head out towards Belturbet or Arvagh and follow the signs for "Lough Oughter." You'll find yourself on tiny, hedge-lined roads that suddenly open up to reveal a stunning new vista of water and drumlins. It's the perfect activity for a day when the weather is a bit "Irish" but you still want to explore.
Your Adventure Hub: Fika 33
All these adventures have one thing in common: they are best enjoyed with a little planning and a lot of energy. This is what makes https://fika33.com/ the essential starting point for any Killeshandra day out.
Before you head to the lough or the trails, stop in. Spread your map out on one of the comfortable tables, grab a delicious, hearty brunch to fuel your body, and order a takeaway coffee for the road.
And when you're finished—muddy, tired, and happy—you know there's a warm, welcoming space waiting for you. A place to sink into a chair, sip a hot chocolate, and relive the day's memories. A great local café isn't just a place to eat and drink; it's the hub for local life and adventure.
But with so much natural beauty, where do you start?
We've compiled a list of five must-do activities in and around Killeshandra. And just as importantly, we've identified the perfect local hub to plan your adventure and refuel after it: the town's beloved Fika 33. After all, no great adventure ever started (or finished) on an empty stomach.
1. Get Lost in Killykeen Forest Park
This is the crown jewel, and for good reason. Killykeen is not just a park; it's a sprawling, magical forest that wraps itself around the intricate islands and waterways of Lough Oughter.What to do: Hire a kayak and explore the lough from the water, navigating between the small islands. If you prefer to stay on land, the forest is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails that suit all abilities. The paths wind through towering pines and mature beech trees, opening up to breathtaking, sudden views of the water.
Refuel Stop: Killykeen is just a short 10-minute drive from Killeshandra. Before you go, stop at Fika 33 to grab a takeaway coffee and a freshly baked scone to enjoy by the lough.
2. Visit the Historic Clough Oughter Castle
While you're exploring Lough Oughter (either from Killykeen or another vantage point), you can't miss the iconic Clough Oughter Castle. This striking, circular 13th-century castle sits alone on a small, man-made island in the middle of the lough.What to do: The castle is only accessible by water. You can hire a boat or join a local kayak tour to paddle out to it. Its solitary, romantic silhouette makes it one of the most photographed sites in Cavan. Getting up close gives you a powerful sense of the history that has unfolded on these waters.
3. Walk the Killeshandra Town Trail
You don't have to get in the car to find history. Killeshandra itself is a fascinating plantation town with a rich architectural heritage.What to do: Pick up a guide for the Killeshandra Town Trail, which starts in the town centre. This gentle walking tour guides you past the historic Market House, the old Jacobean church, and the beautifully preserved doorways and streetscapes. It's a wonderful, relaxing way to spend an hour and appreciate the town's unique character.
Refuel Stop: The trail loops you right back to the main street, where the best café Killeshandra has, Fika 33, is waiting. It's the perfect opportunity to dive in for a proper fika (a coffee and cake break) and discuss the history you've just uncovered.
4. Go Fishing on the "Pike Capital of Ireland"
Killeshandra is world-renowned among anglers. The vast, interconnected system of loughs (including Oughter, Gowna, and Ramor) makes this a paradise for coarse and pike fishing.What to do: Even if you're not a seasoned angler, you can hire a boat and a guide for a day. There are numerous jetties and fishing stands dotted around the lakes, many of which are accessible for all abilities. It's a peaceful, meditative way to connect with the landscape.
5. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Lakelands
Sometimes, the best way to see a place is simply to drive. The roads around Killeshandra are winding, beautiful, and full of surprises.What to do: Pack a flask and just... drive. Head out towards Belturbet or Arvagh and follow the signs for "Lough Oughter." You'll find yourself on tiny, hedge-lined roads that suddenly open up to reveal a stunning new vista of water and drumlins. It's the perfect activity for a day when the weather is a bit "Irish" but you still want to explore.
Your Adventure Hub: Fika 33
All these adventures have one thing in common: they are best enjoyed with a little planning and a lot of energy. This is what makes https://fika33.com/ the essential starting point for any Killeshandra day out.
Before you head to the lough or the trails, stop in. Spread your map out on one of the comfortable tables, grab a delicious, hearty brunch to fuel your body, and order a takeaway coffee for the road.
And when you're finished—muddy, tired, and happy—you know there's a warm, welcoming space waiting for you. A place to sink into a chair, sip a hot chocolate, and relive the day's memories. A great local café isn't just a place to eat and drink; it's the hub for local life and adventure.
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