A small group of native alders and willows draws the eye at the top of the slope leading down to the river. Other trees, cut back by a former owner, have begun to throw out vigorous coppice shoots.

On Bluebell Island there are sycamores, ash trees and hazels, forming a backdrop to the rich blue colour of the hyacinthoides non-scripta (bluebell) flowers along with their vibrant green leaves.

The Black River is an ideal habitat for otters and kingfishers, both riparian specialists. There is evidence of badgers on Bluebell Island in the form of a sett - no doubt these badgers relish their own island kingdom! The rich birdsong is particularly noticeable in the Spring, and is complemented by the burbling sounds of the river - here, it is rare to hear a sound that isn't natural!

The Black River is the most obvious and characterful feature. During a dry Spring it can be a mere trickle, but in winter it can be a strong flowing stream. The water is noticeably clear.

An old gate leads to a fisherman's path scrambling down to the steep river bank; a few hours with a mini digger could produce an easily graded route down to the river. When it is low, the river can easily be forded, either in boots, or, for a truly refreshing experience, barefoot. The bottom is mostly rocky, but smooth. A deeper pool lies just upstream, ideal, perhaps, for fishing - or a dip on a hot day?

After your paddle, the far shore is easily gained, and you enter the private world of the badgers - tread lightly, and they will not be disturbed by your presence. The island is surrounded to the north by the curving arm of a small ox bow lake, formed when the river naturally straightened its course and bypassed the meandering route it took before. The lake is mostly muddy - a great place for tracking the footprints of any wildlife choosing to cross it.

As the access into the meadow is not suitable for vehicles but there is a right to park on the other side of Drumkeenagh Lane, this is for the owners of Bluebell Island and Meadow and is not shared. See photos.

The grassy knoll would provide a great focal point for activities such as a barbeque, a camp fire, outdoor games, or relaxation - just let your imagination run wild in this green oasis far from the madding crowd.

The wider landscape is referred to as the Fermanagh Caveland within the Northern Ireland Landscape Assessment. The acclaimed Marble Arch cave is part of the larger UNESCO Marble Arch Geopark, which was the first such region to span an international border. As described by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the Geopark has over 50 incredible sites including breath-taking viewpoints, magical waterfalls, wonderful wetlands and fantastic forests. The border counties of Cavan, Leitrim and Donegal provide the opportunity to get to know another country. Lough Erne is a boating paradise, and Enniskillen is a fine town with a wide range of shops. Belleek is world famous for its pottery. Blacklion and Belcoo are charming border villages with good accommodation and a range of shops and services.