swimming lakes in ireland

Relaxation is the name of the game on Ireland's coach tours and buses. It would be a shame to visit the lake without also following some of the walking trails in the surrounding woods and hills, which are well marked. From plunge pools and remote lakes to secluded coves and bending rivers, Wales certainly isn’t short of stunning swimming spots. Ireland. In fact even if you don’t want to swim the woods are worth visiting – oak woods which once covered much of Ireland are now relatively rare and this one is especially lovely. Get insider tips, travel ideas and offers that bring you one step closer to Ireland. Why not try the annual Great Fjord Swim? Fancy something more adventurous? For those more interested in fishing, this is a good trout lake, regular stocked and with boats (which you will need) available for hire locally. F ortunately for us, Ireland is blessed with a striking abundance of fabulous swimming beaches. This is an EU designation which is only awarded where the standard of water cleanliness is very high, so these are places you can swim without concern on that score. Feel like a bit of a challenge? One of the island's biggest freshwater lakes, Lough Derg is one of the island's Blueways and is awash in natural beauty from its sparkling waters to the sandstone hills and mountains that cradle it. The rush of adrenaline, the shock of the cold, the natural high... Wild swimming is something special and on the island of Ireland, the dazzling beauty of the surroundings elevates the experience to epic levels. Welcome to Swimming Ireland. There is an information board near the car park where you can check times of lifeguard duty. From wild bays on the edge of Europe to crystal clear lakes once home to monks and mystics, the island of Ireland's wild swimming spots are nothing short of spectacular. Please check before visiting. In summer the lake is an important nesting area for waterbirds, while in winter there is a large population of migratory birds from continental Europe. Add a comment... ... Lough Derg is 118km 2 making it one of the biggest lakes in Ireland. While it is possible to fish, it’s not the best place for fishing in the area and catches are small and not that frequent. The area surrounding the lake is largely bog, so the water can be a little muddy but it has consistently had a very high standard of cleanliness so this does not affect safety. The River in Kinlochleven. The Irish have a deep affinity with the water and are spoiled by some of the most beautiful outdoor swimming spots in the world. Join the locals, don a wetsuit or swimming costume, and experience the invigorating, refreshing and liberating experience of plunging into our waters! One of the island's biggest freshwater lakes, Lough Derg is one of the island's Blueways and is awash in natural beauty from its sparkling waters to the sandstone hills and mountains that cradle it. Your email address will not be published. Get occasional updates with news, events, offers and more to help you plan a vacation in Ireland. Summer in Ireland – Mountain Lake Swimming 1 LoneSwimmer / September 3, 2012 Back in June after the Cork Distance Week, Owen O’Keeffe, aka the Fermoy Fish , Ireland’s youngest ever English Channel swimmer, suggested a swim in Tipperary’s Bay Lough, up … The waters of Scotland – be in the North Atlantic sea or the rivers and lakes fed by mountain springs, rain water and snow melt – can be freezing cold. While the status of water cleanliness here has been a bit up and down over the years, for the last few years the water has been judged clean enough to reach Blue Flag status, so whatever problems there were appear to have been sorted out. Required fields are marked *. You’ll be able to hear the screams and shouts of tourists overhead as they cross the famous rope bridge to the island as you make the bracing swim below. Fans of HBO's Game of Thrones® may recognise Ballintoy Harbour as the Iron Islands, but this quiet spot off the Causeway Coastal Route is also known for what Chris Popham from the Wild Swimming community describes as "astonishingly clear" waters. At the mouth of Galway bay, between Casla Bay and Greatman’s Bay, lies one of … The bathing place at Lough Lene, pictured above, is known as ‘The Cut’. It's a truly unforgettable location, thanks to a combination of sky-high sea cliffs, startlingly beautiful beaches, rugged mountains and dramatic peat bogs. Close to the small town of Killaloe, the bathing place at Ballycuggeran is beautifully located, at the foot of the Slieve Bernagh Mountains with an oak wood surrounding it and a sandy freshwater beach running along the lake shore. Located in the North Atlantic, Ireland is an island nation across the Irish Sea and North Channel from Great Britain. Annagh Bay, Achill Island, Co Mayo Tucked away, completely out of sight, Annagh Bay has to be one of the most breathtaking sea swimming spots in Ireland. Swimmers should head to the elegant 18th century village of Mountshannon, County Clare with its picturesque marina and Blue Flag beach. This is a small well kept bathing area close to a popular and busy marina. 8. Ireland has a plethora of fantastic swimming spots. The pristine River Barrow in Carlow is something of a hidden gem that's a favourite of local walkers and cyclists, as well as kayakers and boaters. There is a small car park, toilets and changing rooms. The Irish Water Safety provides information on what to look out for when swimming in the sea or open water in Ireland. A post shared by Ireland (@tourismireland) on Jun 21, 2017 at 4:13am PDT The kilometre long swim between Larrybane Bay and Carrick-a-Rede Island is one of the most dramatic swims in Ireland. Water temperatures range from around 6º to 18º C. 1. Discover the heritage behind Ireland's literary greats and words beloved by the world. There are good walks around the shore for those looking to spot birds and other wildlife. I needed a hot drink after watching the video above from the comfort of an armchair. From action-packed adventures to rejuvenating retreats, Ireland's got something for everyone. Find out more. The Best Places For An Outdoor Swim In Ireland. Maureen McCoy and Paul McCambridge, both from County Down, can personally attest to the joy of taking the plunge in Ireland’s waters. Jet skis and water skis are banned but it is possible to arrange kayaking and canoeing locally. The second largest lake in Ireland, Lough Corrib is in the West of Ireland. Many of the places we list are historic or educational in nature and would be suitable for class trips or as ways to keep the learning up whilst having fun over the school holidays . Lough Leane “The Lake of Learning” 08. But it's the glistening, crystal-clear water here that will really make your heart sing. It is the... 4 Pools 1. The river and lake are also very popular for cruise boats and for all kinds of water sports  – you’ll find centres at each of the locations below where you can hire boats or organise kayaking, canoeing, water skiing and other activities. Looking for inspiration? Video of the week: You are truly off the beaten track here but you’ll be well rewarded. Since it's the city's most famous spot for this kind of thing, the facilities match the demand – with plenty of handrails to allow easy access to the briny deep, as well as an excellent diving platform. 10 Best Lakes In Ireland. This large limestone lake is a popular swimming place locally and has good facilities with changing rooms, showers and picnic areas available. So, take the plunge! A pier runs out from the shore giving access to deeper water, but do check first before diving as it can be hard to see the lake bottom. Discover the wonders, landscapes and culture just outside Dublin. Silver Strand Beach, Barna, County Galway. Corballis, Donabate, County Dublin. 1. 3. Base yourself in the village of Leenane, and, well, just go for it – dolphins, seals and sublime views will keep you company. The lake water is particularly clear and clean, the sandy bottom visible as you swim. It is a sad fact that many Irish lakes and waterways which would otherwise make great locations for a swim are unsuitable because of the status of the water. There is a signposted walking/running trail – Slí Ballyallia – that passes along the shore of the lake and ends in Ennis. Mostly when you think of swimming outdoors it’s the sea you imagine, but there are lakes in Ireland where it’s possible to swim, and those on the map below are safe and clean and most have life guards on duty during the Summer months. Swimmers should head to the elegant 18th century village of Mountshannon, County Clare with its picturesque marina and Blue Flag beach. The lake area is a wildlife sanctuary and a good spot for bird watching with several species of ducks and waders and a resident population of Whooper swans. The general area – which is not terribly far from Brú na Boinne – is rich in historic and metalithic structures. There are two piers for diving. In others its the effect of run off from agriculture or industry. This spot has been a firm favourite since the dawn of time, or since the dawn of sun in Ireland. Dublin | Thu Mar 18th - Wed Mar 24th 2021, Dublin | Wed Mar 24th - Wed Mar 31st 2021. Published: March 22, 2017 | Updated: April 17, 2017 | Image Credits, Ireland is of course an island, so it isn’t surprising that sailing is a …, If you are looking for links golf close to Dublin City then Portmarnock Golf …, A less well known links golf course than many other in Ireland, The Island is a …, Fishing for Salmon requires a license, and as almost all fishing rights on …. Bear in mind that it does get deep fairly quickly, so stay close to the shore. The Poulaphouca reservoir is the largest man made lake in Ireland and is a great base for various outdoor activities. Questions on visas? This latter point is crucial – lakes and rivers that may look like great places for a swim are not always safe. The Irish climate is well suited to sport angling. And we are also home to many waterparks and indoor and outdoor adventure centres where you can swim or have splashing fun with the family? The water while shallow and safe along the shore is deeper in the centre and if it’s windy there can be strong currents – check with life guards before venturing too far out. Get set for a glorious adventure amongst picturesque towns and scenic fishing villages. Wild Swimming in Ireland: Discover 50 Places to Swim in Rivers, Lakes & the Sea Paperback – Illustrated, 11 April 2016 by Maureen McCoy (Author), Paul McCambridge (Author) 4.8 out of 5 stars 13 ratings. In high summer, if there is a period of hot weather (it happens! Where to enjoy traditional Irish food in Dublin and Belfast, with a contemporary edge. Westmeath is bang in the centre of Ireland, as far from the sea as it gets, but has some of the loveliest lakes in the country to compensate. And it’s where Jonathan Swift got the name for the land of small people in Gulliver’s Travels – he was a frequent guest in the area. As well as being the set off point for many Shannon cruises, Portumna is a centre for water sports on the lake and you can arrange pretty much any water activity here. The perfect spot for a group to check out on a sunny day. The water depth means diving is a popular activity and there is a stone jetty with a number of diving heights available, as well as ladders for less dramatic access to the water. Lough Ennel (Lilliputt) When the sun shines in Ireland on those rare occasions, head to Lilly Putt for a fun family day out where you'll find a swimming lake with a jetty, kayaking, pitch and putt, sand pits and trails. Sea and land combine to create a vista of pure poetry on the Wild Atlantic Way. There is also a cafe/shop with toilets. In England and Wales, a “right to roam” law means most lakes and rivers are open to swimming but there are some exceptions so it is important … This glacial fjord in County Louth is no stranger to beauty — after all, it boasts views of the breathtaking Mourne Mountains — the peaks that inspired CS Lewis's Narnia. But none evoke as much devotion as The Forty Foot. Right this way…. There are three islands on Lough Lene and strong swimmers might try making it to Turgesius Island which is exactly a mile from the cut. Proportional Representation: How it Works. Wherever you go in Ireland’s Ancient East, you’ll find unbelievable experiences. Here are just some of our favourite spots. Of these, here is our list of the 15 best lakes in Ireland. The lakes below have all achieved Blue Flag status following regular testing of the water by the EPA. Great food, traditional pubs and incredible Titanic history take Belfast to the next level, Sway with the wind as you cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and take in the stunning views of the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy sweet treats, local craft beers and some of the world's best seafood. Windsurfing on Lough Allen, Co. Leitrim & Roscommon Lough Allen is a lake on the River Shannon in County Leitrim with a small part of the lake in County Roscommon. But it also has some swimming options, too. The local authorities have made a particular effort to maintain good places for swimming on three of these lakes – Lough Lene, Lough Ennell and Lough Owel – and provide life guard services at all of them during the summer. If wild swimming is your thing, welcome to paradise! Michael Alexander from the Wild Swim community describes the waters here as having “that rich Atlantic hue of green and blue,” and a temperature that is “reassuringly cold”. Cork City has a world-class market, historic fort and incredible food and drink to enjoy, Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Located close to the edge of Ennis and to suburban housing, the swimming area here can be busy when the weather is very good but is otherwise quiet. There are exceptions such as some areas of the lakes around Mullingar. How much do you know about Ireland’s historic houses? There is a special shallow children’s area here and other points where you can quickly access deeper water via a ladder, so plenty of variety. All photographs by Brendan Mac Evilly, unless otherwise stated National Aquatic Centre in Dublin is not only one of the most exciting attractions in Ireland, it is also among the biggest swimming pools in the world. Brittas Bay, County Wicklow. As a bonus most are in beautiful locations and are rich with wildlife, especially birds. Lough Ennell is well known for its swans, and has a good diversity of birds and wildlife generally. Sheltered and sandy, the bathing area has toilets and changing rooms and is very well maintained. Achill Island is far more than just picture-postcard perfection. Head out with Coasteering NI for a "swim, scramble and splash around the coves of Ballintoy". It’s hard to get any depth from here, but there are steps the other side of a boathouse which lead to somewhat deeper water. But they are also incredibly serene and who doesn’t need a breath of fresh air water from time to time? West Cork, County Cork. Swimmers should head to the elegant 18th century village of Mountshannon, County Clare with its picturesque marina and Blue Flag beach. Caragh Lake. Lough Allen is the uppermost of the three main lakes on the River Shannon, which also include Lough Ree and Lough Derg. We've got you covered. Here are some of my favourite wild swimming spots across Scotland. There is a parking area, toilets and some seating for picnics but no life guard presence. Exploring ancient ruins? As a general rule we are warned from an early age not to swim in lakes in Ireland due to the dangers involved (depth,very cold water, reduced buoyancy, no lifeguards). Related News. Either way, once you're done, tuck into a toasted sandwich in Gaynor’s pub, where much of the action in John B Keane’s film adaptation of The Field took place. Planning a trip? No list of wild swimming spots would be complete without Lough Erne, set in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands. Peppered with no less than 154 islands, there is plenty of gentle shoreline here where you can take steps into the water. There are no life guards but there is life saving equipment available. You'll be buzzed up on endorphins afterwards, so head into the medieval town of Carlingford where lots of cosy pubs, cafés and restaurants await. Yes, Lilliput! If you plan on heading out for a swim, always stay safe. There is really nothing as glorious as topping off a visit to this slice of Connemara heaven with a dip in the beautiful Killary Fjord. Afterwards, warm the cockles with tea and scones at the brilliant Mullichain Café, right on the doorstep. Lough Derg in the Shannon River Basin 09. The Lakes were formed 50 years ago by the building of the Poulaphouca Dam and hydroelectric station. Have you something to add about "Freshwater Swimming in Ireland"? There are slipways to take you into the water and decent facilities including toilets and a changing room as well as a nice grassy area with plenty of seating for picnics. There are life guards on duty during the summer, and it is very important to consult with them and stick to designated bathing areas as the lake can in parts be quite dangerous. Warm up afterwards with a bowl of Strangford mussels at The Fullerton Arms on Ballintoy's Main Street. Once you've cleared the cobwebs with a swim, walk up to local favourite The Snug and warm yourself up with pizza and tapas. Unlike Lough Ennell, the water here is deep and has a reputation for being very cold. Five unique regions. There is a carpark, toilets and picnic facilities and a life guard on duty during the summer months. The village of Mountshannon is particularly charming and has won several awards for tidiness and for being generally maintained in an attractive state and it is worth taking some time for a wander around. With so many air and ferry routes to choose from, Ireland is accessible no matter where you are in the world. 10 Most Awesome Lakes to Visit in Ireland 10. We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you. Freshwater Swimming in Ireland Water Cleanliness. One amazing island. Its name in Irish – Lough Riach – means ‘the grey lake’, probably due to the reflection of often grey skies on its smooth calm surface because on a sunny day it is decidedly blue. Currents or undergrowth present often unseen hazards and, unless you have consulted locally about the safety of any place you think looks likely,  you should not swim in strange waters. Travel options and businesses may be affected by local restrictions. Found at the southern end of Dublin Bay, the … Photo credit. The Causeway Coastal Route is one of Northern Ireland's greatest adventures. This large limestone lake is a popular swimming place locally and has good facilities with... Co … 1.Glendalough Upper Lake, County Wicklow; 2.Lough Cullin, County Mayo; 3.Lough Ree, Counties of Longford, Westmeath & Roscommon; 4.Lough Derg, Counties Clare, Galway & Tipperary; 5.Lough Leane, County Kerry; 6.Lough Corrib, Counties Galway & Mayo; 7.Lough Conn, County Mayo; 8.Lough Allen, Counties Leitrim & Roscommon Wild Swimming in Ireland: Discover 50 Places to Swim in Rivers, Lakes & the Sea Journeying from county to county, this guide to fifty of Ireland’s best wild swims will inspire readers to get off the beaten track and find amazing locations for skinny-dipping, diving, swimming and snorkelling. All the lakes we list are rated according to the ages they are suitable for, facilities and whether they are suitable for rainy days or best when the sun is shining. With beautiful beaches, secret coves, mountain lakes and rolling rivers, Kerry has it all. As an island nation we are surrounded by water and have a wide choice of beaches, lakes and rivers to enjoy swimming, diving and a host of watersports. The bathing place is in a Water Recreation Park, a well kept area with lots of grassy space for picnicking, a carpark, toilets and a changing area with showers. Here are our Top Spots … Your email address will not be published. It... 3. It is a sad fact that many Irish lakes and waterways which would otherwise make great locations for a... Loughrea Lake, Galway. Follow the flat towpath trail from the lovely village of Graignamanagh and you're into a stunning natural wonderland of glassy reflections, forests and picturesque lock houses. It’s very popular with locals – it’s where many children in Leitrim learnt to swim – and can be quite busy in warm weather. The lake can be fished for trout and coarse fish, though there are reports of declining stocks in recent years. Confusingly there are two Lough Dergs in Ireland. In some cases this is because untreated sewage is discharged into the lake or one of the rivers that feed it. The lake is popular too for coarse fishing, with good catches of pike, perch, roach and other species common. Mix and match for your perfect holiday. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Wild Swimming Spots in Ireland: 10 of the Best 1. The lough's largest town Enniskillen also hosts the annual Lough Erne Swim, with swims from 1.5km up to 25km long, as part of The Global Swim Series, the world’s largest collection of open-water races. Or just want to scroll yourself happy? Known as the Emerald Isle for its lush, green landscape, Ireland also boasts nearly 1500 km of coastline, and 13,000 km2 of coastal waters. It's also a delightful swimming spot, and while the water here isn't really that deep, it's a great low-key place to go swim and relax for the day, and feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle. It's about a 7km walk or cycle to the village of St Mullins  — your swimming spot. And the best spot for swimming? Lough Derg. "Cool, dark and refreshing," is how Outdoorswimming.ie describes the waters here, but they do also caution that the Barrow is a big river so it's vital to be careful of any flow. There is a good activity centre right by the bathing area where you can arrange kayaking, canoeing and other water sports. Be warned, it's cold — so a wetsuit, or at the very least a wetsuit-top is a good idea if you're taking the plunge. One of the island's biggest freshwater lakes, Lough Derg is one of the island's Blueways and is awash in natural beauty from its sparkling waters to the sandstone hills and mountains that cradle it. So, recently. It's got to be Keem Bay. The Irish have a deep affinity with the water and are spoiled by some of the most beautiful outdoor swimming spots in the world. It’s the largest lake on Ireland longest river, and has a number of bathing places around its shore. Leitrim, though a very beautiful county, is one of the most out of the way and little visited places in Ireland, and this spot is out of the way even for Leitrim! One is in Donegal and is famous as a place of pilgrimage, but the one here is on the River Shannon. Wondering about weather? Add a comment... ... Killary Harbour takes in some of the west coast’s most striking scenery. In spite of the coldness of the water, this is the location for a popular local event – the Christmas Day swim. 10 of the best coastal swimming spots in Ireland Children leap from the jetty at Derrynane, Co Kerry. Most of the lake lies in Galway with a small part of its Northeast corner in Mayo. This not-for profit swim race kicks off the 2020 open-water swimming season in Ireland. Glendalough Upper Lake; County Wicklow Source: Stefano_Valeri / shutterstock Glendalough Upper Lake. There are life guards in summer. Its name comes... 2. This stunning lake is a popular spot for game angling and has 365 islands, including Inchagoill, famous for its enchanted woodlands and spectacular views of Connemara. Roundstone, County Galway. There are a whopping 12,000 lakes in Ireland (called loughs) that cover an area of more than 120,000 hectare. Incredible to be part of, and to watch. Killary Harbour. Park at the harbour, walk back up the road and keep your eye out for a small entrance that leads down a track to a fine stretch of golden sand. Inland, Ireland has over 70,000 km of river channel, 12,000 lakes, and 850 km2 of estuaries. ), there can be an issue here with algal blooms which may cause temporary closure for swimming. Lough Ennell is a calm shallow lake, and the swimming area has a stony beach leading to the shore. Great South Wall. For more safety tips in open water, check out our full guide on Open Water Swimming Safety in Ireland. Hawk Cliff, Dalkey, County Dublin, is the first official nudist beach in Ireland. Are you up for the challenge? Ireland is recognised as being the outstanding fishing holiday destination in Europe. Set in the Wicklow Mountains, the Blessington Lakes cover 5000 acres water. The vast variety and quality of fishing in Ireland makes it the perfect destination for your angling holiday. From Wild Swimming in Ireland – Discover 50 Places to Swim in Rivers, Lakes and the Sea, The Collins Press. Get your feet wet or hit the tarmac: some great ways to explore of the Wild Atlantic Way. Strolling through vibrant city streets? Although this glacial lake is quite small, it’s one of the most visited destinations in all of Ireland! But did you know that Ireland has no less than 22 outdoor swimming pools? It opened in April 2018.

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