7 Perfect Reasons Fermanagh Unrushed is Your Ultimate Escape
In a world that never seems to slow down, there’s something profoundly refreshing about discovering a place where time moves at your pace. Welcome to Fermanagh Unrushed – a corner of Northern Ireland where tranquillity isn’t just promised, it’s delivered in abundance. Tucked away in County Fermanagh is one of the most relaxing destinations on the island of Ireland, a place to soothe your soul and surround yourself with the tranquil beauty of Lough Erne.
From craggy cliffs and subterranean caves to lush nature reserves and glorious lakelands, County Fermanagh is a breathtaking beauty – a balm for the soul, inviting visitors to press pause and restore their mind, body and spirit.
At the heart of this serene experience lies Belmore Court & Motel, your perfect base for discovering everything that makes Fermanagh Unrushed so special. Located in Enniskillen, the island town that serves as the gateway to Lough Erne’s wonders, this welcoming establishment offers the ideal blend of comfort, convenience and genuine Irish hospitality for visitors seeking to embrace the unhurried pace that defines this remarkable county.
The Magic of Lough Erne: A Place of Untouched Beauty
The county’s glistening centrepiece is Lough Erne, two connected lakes that offer a calm and peaceful environment – the perfect getaway from the busyness of modern life. These tranquil waters form the heart of the Fermanagh Unrushed experience, inviting you to slow down, look closer and discover a truly meaningful experience on the island.
As local experts describe it, Lough Erne represents “untouched beauty” where visitors can expect a landscape which feels tranquil, deeply rooted in history and incredibly welcoming. The county still feels genuinely undiscovered, making it the ideal destination for travellers seeking authenticity over tourist crowds. But it’s not just about ticking off landmarks – it’s about how this place makes you feel. Whether you’re paddling through the serene waters, walking a forest path, or sharing stories in a cosy café, this is a place that invites genuine connection.
Staying at Belmore Court & Motel positions you perfectly to embrace this philosophy. From your comfortable base in Enniskillen, you can explore at your leisure, knowing you have a peaceful retreat waiting at the end of each day. The staff understand the Fermanagh Unrushed ethos intimately and can guide you towards experiences that match your pace and interests.
Serenity on the Water: Exploring Lough Erne
Nothing quite beats the experience of exploring Lough Erne from the water, where you can go slow, enjoy glimpses of kingfishers, and hear tales of Celts, monks and Vikings. The waterways offer the quintessential Fermanagh Unrushed experience – there’s no schedule to keep, no rush to reach the next destination, just the gentle rhythm of water and the timeless beauty of the landscape.
Erne Water Taxi offers luxury guided boat trips of Lough Erne, Enniskillen and the 6th-century Devenish Island monastic settlement. Their fully electric Island Discovery Boat provides the perfect way to enjoy a quiet, private tour of the lough, gliding silently through waters that have witnessed centuries of Irish history. The electric engine means no noisy motor to disturb the peace – just you, the water, and the stories that have shaped this landscape.
From Belmore Court & Motel, these water experiences are wonderfully accessible. After a leisurely breakfast, you can stroll down to the waterfront and begin your aquatic adventure, knowing you don’t have to rush back for a long drive to distant accommodation.
If you fancy going under your own steam, Carrick Craft in Bellanaleck is just one of the spots to hire a cruiser and explore the Shannon-Erne Waterway and both Upper and Lower Lough Erne. Alternatively, soak up the serenity of the lake on a hydrobike, kayaks or paddleboards, available from Castle Archdale Boat Hire. These self-guided options embody Fermanagh Unrushed perfectly – you’re the captain of your own journey, free to pause wherever something catches your eye, to drift in peaceful contemplation, or to explore hidden coves that most visitors never discover.
Heavenly Walks Through Breathtaking Landscapes
County Fermanagh’s walking trails showcase the Fermanagh Unrushed philosophy at its finest. These aren’t demanding mountain marathons designed to test your limits – they’re immersive experiences through stunning landscapes where the journey itself becomes a form of meditation.
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail stands as a true escape – an 11km route through farmland, over blanket bog and past flower-speckled pastures. The boardwalk reaches up to Cuilcagh Mountain, the highest point in County Fermanagh, and offers unrivalled views of the countryside, lakes and rivers below. Once you arrive at the summit, you’ll understand completely why it’s been nicknamed the “Stairway to Heaven”. This isn’t a trail to rush – every step reveals something new, from the delicate ecosystem of the blanket bog to the ever-expanding vistas as you climb higher.
The beauty of basing yourself at Belmore Court & Motel is the freedom to tackle walks like Cuilcagh at whatever pace suits you. Start early to catch the sunrise from the summit, or begin later in the day for a more leisurely experience. There’s no pressure, no rigid schedule – just you and one of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes.
For a full immersion in nature, head to the shores of Upper Lough Erne where you’ll find Crom Estate, a 2,000-acre wildlife haven. Take the wildlife walk to spot an array of creatures such as otters, pine martens, buzzards, grey herons and sparrowhawks, or opt for the longer lakeside trail, which skirts around the shore of the lough and offers spectacular views of the glassy waters. The Fermanagh Unrushed approach means you can spend an entire afternoon here, sitting quietly to observe wildlife, rather than rushing through to see everything in an hour.
Rising to the top of the Magho Cliffs, the spectacular Navar Forest is a must-see. Boasting a wealth of stunning vistas, and both natural and historical antiquities, this 2,600 hectare area of native woodland, bog, coniferous forest and heath offers wonderful views. On a clear day, you might even see the Atlantic Ocean! The network of trails through Navar Forest caters to all abilities, ensuring everyone can participate in the Fermanagh Unrushed experience regardless of fitness level.
Going Underground: The Wonder of Marble Arch Caves
Proving that there is serenity to be found even underneath the surface, the Marble Arch Caves are some of the most impressive of their kind in Europe. This extraordinary attraction, part of the remarkable Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, offers a completely different perspective on Fermanagh Unrushed – here, geological time itself moves slowly, with formations that have developed over millions of years.
The sound of water is everywhere here – dripping, trickling, gushing through the labyrinth of rivers, waterfalls and vast echoing chambers that boast striking stalactites, underground pools and caverns. Glide along an underground river before following a path on foot through caves with fascinating names, including Guardian Angel, the Porridge Pot and the Organ Pipes. The guided tours move at a measured pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of these natural wonders.
This underground adventure is easily accessible from Belmore Court & Motel, making it perfect for a half-day excursion. The caves maintain a constant cool temperature year-round, offering a unique experience whatever the weather outside. It’s advisable to book in advance, particularly during peak season, but the tours never feel rushed or overcrowded.
Timeless Beauty: Historic Houses and Gardens
If history and elegance are more your thing, then County Fermanagh delivers magnificently. The Fermanagh Unrushed experience extends to the county’s stately homes and historic estates, where you can lose yourself in centuries of Irish heritage.
Florence Court, an 18th-century mansion and estate, is a wonderful place to let your imagination run free. Enjoy charming gardens, leafy forest trails, and a historic walled garden with a lush apple orchard. There’s also a second-hand bookshop perfect for browsing, house tours that bring history to life, 18th-century light industry exhibitions, a working watermill and demonstrations of traditional skills such as blacksmithing. You could easily spend an entire day here, moving from the house to the gardens to the trails, never once feeling hurried.
Castle Coole, the former home of one of the Earls of Belmore, is one of Ireland’s finest neo-classical houses. It’s nestled amongst 1,200 acres of verdant woodland, making it the ideal location for anyone wishing to lose themselves for an afternoon before enjoying a picnic on one of the allocated spots around the estate. The house itself is a masterpiece of architectural elegance, whilst the grounds offer peaceful walks where red squirrels dart through the trees and waterfowl glide across the serene lake.
Both properties are maintained by the National Trust and represent just two of the three National Trust properties in County Fermanagh, alongside 14 plantation castles scattered throughout the region. From your base at Belmore Court & Motel, these historic treasures are all within comfortable driving distance, allowing you to explore Fermanagh’s rich heritage without exhausting yourself with long journeys.
A Taste of Fermanagh: Culinary Experiences to Savour
Enniskillen, the largest town in County Fermanagh, is a scenic delight with a beautiful lakeside setting (it’s actually an island), a historic castle and very friendly locals. It’s also a go-to destination for great food in County Fermanagh, and the Fermanagh Unrushed philosophy extends deliciously to the local dining scene.
Get to know the essential stops on the Enniskillen Taste Experience, which brings you on a stroll through the town’s food and drink scene with tastings and meet-ups with local suppliers. This isn’t rushed sampling – it’s genuine engagement with the people who produce, prepare and serve Fermanagh’s finest foods. You’ll learn the stories behind the ingredients, discover family recipes passed down through generations, and understand how the landscape shapes the flavours on your plate.
Blakes at the Hollow is a fabulous Victorian pub in the town, with a beautiful traditional interior and live music every Friday night. The atmosphere here perfectly captures the Fermanagh Unrushed spirit – locals and visitors mingle easily, conversations flow naturally, and there’s absolutely no pressure to move along for the next sitting. Order a pint of the black stuff, settle into a cosy corner, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.
For something a little off the beaten track, try The Linnet Inn, Fermanagh’s only thatched pub, set in the rural village of Boho. This atmospheric establishment represents everything that makes Fermanagh Unrushed special – authentic, unspoilt, and utterly charming. The journey to Boho itself offers scenic countryside views that remind you why slow travel reveals so much more than rushing between destinations.
Belmore Court & Motel’s central Enniskillen location means you’re perfectly positioned to explore the town’s culinary offerings. You can easily walk to many restaurants and pubs, and the staff are always happy to recommend their personal favourites based on what you’re in the mood for.
Why Belmore Court & Motel is Your Perfect Fermanagh Base
Choosing the right accommodation transforms a good holiday into an exceptional one, and Belmore Court & Motel stands out as the ideal choice for anyone embracing the Fermanagh Unrushed experience. Its location in Enniskillen – the island town at the heart of County Fermanagh – means you’re surrounded by experiences rather than spending valuable holiday time driving long distances.
From Belmore Court & Motel, you can walk to Enniskillen Castle, explore the town’s characterful streets, discover local shops and cafés, and access the waterfront. Yet you’re also perfectly positioned for day trips to every major attraction County Fermanagh offers. Castle Coole is just minutes away, whilst Cuilcagh, Marble Arch Caves, Florence Court, and Crom Estate are all comfortable drives that don’t eat into your relaxation time.
The rooms at Belmore Court & Motel provide a peaceful sanctuary after days spent exploring. Comfortable beds ensure restorative sleep, modern amenities offer convenience, and the overall atmosphere supports the slower pace you’re cultivating. This isn’t generic chain-hotel accommodation – it’s a property with character, run by people who genuinely care about your experience.
The staff at Belmore Court & Motel understand what draws visitors to County Fermanagh. They can recommend the quietest times to visit popular attractions, suggest hidden gems that don’t appear in guidebooks, advise on walking trails suited to your ability, and book activities on your behalf. This local knowledge proves invaluable for creating a truly authentic Fermanagh Unrushed experience.
Practical matters like on-site parking remove stress from your stay. You can come and go as you please, load up the car for picnics, and know your vehicle is secure. For visitors without cars, the central location means much is accessible on foot, and the staff can arrange taxis for attractions further afield.
Planning Your Fermanagh Unrushed Escape
Creating the perfect Fermanagh Unrushed itinerary requires a fundamental shift in how you typically plan holidays. Forget cramming activities into every waking hour. Instead, embrace spaciousness. Book four or five nights at Belmore Court & Motel rather than rushing through in a weekend. Choose two or three activities per day rather than exhausting yourself with relentless sightseeing.
Leave room for spontaneity – for discovering a charming café you hadn’t planned to visit, for extending a walk because the light is perfect, for spending an extra hour at a historical site because you’re genuinely fascinated. The beauty of the Fermanagh Unrushed approach is that you’re creating space for these unexpected moments that often become the most treasured memories.
Consider visiting during shoulder seasons – spring or autumn – when Fermanagh reveals different facets of its beauty. Spring brings wildflowers carpeting the countryside and new lambs in the fields, whilst autumn transforms the forests into tapestries of gold and amber. These seasons also tend to be quieter, enhancing the unhurried atmosphere that makes County Fermanagh so special.
Winter has its own charm, with cosy pubs, dramatic landscapes, and fewer visitors. Summer offers the longest days and warmest weather, perfect for water activities and extended outdoor exploration. Whenever you visit, Belmore Court & Motel provides a welcoming base that adapts to the seasons.
The Deeper Rewards of Slowing Down
The Fermanagh Unrushed experience offers rewards that extend far beyond the holiday itself. Many visitors report that their time in County Fermanagh marked a turning point – a reminder that life doesn’t have to be a breathless race from one obligation to the next. The lessons learned beside Lough Erne’s quiet waters often ripple outward, influencing how people approach their daily lives long after returning home.
There’s something profoundly restorative about matching your pace to nature’s rhythms rather than to your smartphone’s notifications. About measuring success not by how many attractions you’ve ticked off a list, but by how deeply you’ve connected with a place and its people. About rediscovering the lost art of doing absolutely nothing without guilt or restlessness.
County Fermanagh facilitates this transformation effortlessly. The landscape itself seems to exhale, inviting you to breathe more deeply. The locals model a different relationship with time, where conversations aren’t rushed and hospitality is never perfunctory. Staying at Belmore Court & Motel, you become part of this rhythm rather than an observer of it.
Your Journey to Fermanagh Unrushed Begins Here
With tranquil walks, laid-back pubs, forest hideaways and gorgeous on-the-water experiences, Lough Erne and County Fermanagh have most certainly earned recognition as one of the most relaxing destinations on the island of Ireland.
The county offers so much to see, including the island town of Enniskillen, three National Trust properties, 14 plantation castles and the remarkable Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark. Yet the Fermanagh Unrushed philosophy reminds us that seeing everything isn’t the goal. Experiencing something meaningful is.
Belmore Court & Motel stands ready to welcome you to this extraordinary corner of Ireland. Book your stay for several nights – give yourself the gift of time. Pack your sense of curiosity along with your walking boots. Prepare to disconnect from the relentless pace of modern life and reconnect with what travelling should feel like.
In County Fermanagh, time doesn’t stand still – it simply moves at the pace life was always meant to be lived. The question isn’t whether you can afford to embrace the Fermanagh Unrushed experience. It’s whether you can afford not to. Your journey to genuine restoration begins with a simple decision: book your stay at Belmore Court & Motel and discover what it truly means to travel unrushed.
Fermanagh Unrushed FAQ
What does “Fermanagh Unrushed” actually mean?
Fermanagh Unrushed is a travel philosophy that encourages visitors to slow down and experience County Fermanagh at a relaxed, meaningful pace. Rather than rushing between attractions ticking boxes, it’s about savouring each moment, connecting deeply with the landscape and culture, and prioritising quality experiences over quantity. It’s the antidote to hectic, exhausting tourism.
What makes County Fermanagh different from other Irish destinations?
County Fermanagh still feels genuinely undiscovered compared to more tourist-heavy areas of Ireland. The landscape is deeply rooted in history, incredibly welcoming, and offers untouched beauty. With Lough Erne as its centrepiece, three National Trust properties, 14 plantation castles, and the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, there’s extraordinary diversity – yet it never feels crowded or commercialised.
Is Fermanagh Unrushed suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Children thrive when they’re not being rushed from place to place. County Fermanagh offers gentle walking trails like those at Crom Estate, boat trips on Lough Erne that captivate young imaginations, the fascinating Marble Arch Caves, and outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The relaxed pace means less stress for parents and more genuine engagement for children with nature and history.
What’s the best time of year for a Fermanagh Unrushed experience?
Every season offers something special. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers and lambs; summer (June-August) provides long days perfect for water activities; autumn (September-October) transforms the forests with golden colours; and winter offers cosy pubs and dramatic landscapes. Shoulder seasons tend to be quieter, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere, but the Fermanagh Unrushed philosophy works beautifully year-round.
Why should I choose Belmore Court & Motel for my Fermanagh stay?
Belmore Court & Motel is perfectly located in Enniskillen, the island town at the heart of County Fermanagh. This central position means you can walk to the town centre, castle, and waterfront, yet you’re ideally placed for day trips to every major attraction without exhausting travel times. The staff understand the Fermanagh Unrushed philosophy and provide personalised recommendations. The comfortable rooms offer genuine rest, and the excellent value means you can stay longer and experience more.
How far is Belmore Court & Motel from main attractions?
Enniskillen Castle is within walking distance. Castle Coole is just minutes away by car. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk, Marble Arch Caves, Florence Court, and Crom Estate are all comfortable 20-40 minute drives. Lough Erne’s waterfront and boat hire facilities are easily accessible. The central location means you spend less time driving and more time actually experiencing Fermanagh Unrushed.
How difficult is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
The “Stairway to Heaven” is an 11km route (5.5km each way) that’s moderately challenging but accessible to most reasonably fit visitors. The boardwalk section protects the blanket bog and makes the terrain easy to navigate. The climb to Cuilcagh Mountain summit requires some effort, but the unrivalled views of countryside, lakes and rivers make it worthwhile. Start early or late to avoid crowds, and allow 3-4 hours for a leisurely round trip that embodies Fermanagh Unrushed.
