Lough Major Loop, Co Monaghan

Difficulty: Easy Time: 1 hour Distance: 4km

The trailhead for this one is found at Ballybay Town Park, off Castleblayney Road. The loop covers two-thirds of Lough Major’s shoreline, and sunrise or sunset colours over winter can be glorious with the right conditions. You’ll also enjoy reflections on the lake when it’s calm. The lake is a haven for wildlife and wintering migratory birds such as the Siberian wigeon and whooper swan. You’ll also come across a tiny well, an ornate bridge and a yew tree-lined section. Trail maps are on ballybay.ie.

Afters: Head to the Welcome Inn or Liam Smyth’s for a drink or top up with a tasty treat and speciality coffee at Dinkin’s Bakery (dinkinsbakery.com; Tuesday to Saturday) in Ballybay.

Adrian Hendroff has written several Irish walking guidebooks, his latest being Mourne and Cooley Mountains; he also runs Mountain Skills courses and photography workshops. adrianhendroff.com; fabulousviewpoints.com

​NB: Safety comes first on any walk, no matter how easy. Dress appropriately, leave word of where you’re going and when you’ll be back, and pack smart (especially in winter). Avoid peak times at busy spots, and don’t leave valuables visible inside cars.