Top 15 Stunning Lakes to Explore in Ireland

Ireland ranks as the third largest island in Europe and is the second largest among the British Isles. It is renowned for its picturesque landscape featuring coastal and low-lying mountains, abundant vegetation, and numerous navigable rivers. The country is also celebrated for its remarkable castles, elegant estates, and historical monasteries.

The island comprises 32 distinct counties, each possessing its own unique allure. This variety significantly contributes to Ireland’s status as a prime tourist destination, alongside its famous beer, whiskey, and culinary offerings. Nonetheless, many visitors are drawn to the dramatic scenery and breathtaking natural beauty, exemplified by its lakes. Remarkably, there are approximately 12,000 lakes in Ireland, locally referred to as loughs, covering an area of over 120,000 hectares. Below, we present a curated list of the 15 most noteworthy lakes in Ireland.

1. Glendalough Upper Lake; County Wicklow

Despite its modest size, this glacial lake is among the most frequented sites in Ireland. Its popularity is easily understandable, given its stunning location within the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Positioned at an elevation of 130 meters above sea level and encircled by mountains, the lake offers an exceptionally tranquil experience. Furthermore, the historic 6th-century monastic settlement of Glendalough lies just to the east of the lake, providing extraordinary perspectives, particularly from the prominent Round Tower.

The Wicklow Way hiking trail, extending for 131 kilometers, runs along the eastern shore of the lough. While traversing the trail or merely admiring the lake’s beauty, visitors may encounter diverse flora, including white water lily and broad-leaved pondweed.

2. Lough Leane; County Kerry

Lough Leane, the largest of three lakes situated in Killarney National Park, derives its name from the phrase ‘lake of learning’. This designation is believed to originate from Innisfallen Island, a significant center of scholarship during the early Middle Ages.

The lake spans 1,900 hectares and is celebrated for its salmon and brown trout fishing, with excellent boat access available. Boat tours of the lake are highly recommended, providing connections to the other two Killarney lakes.

Along the eastern shoreline, visitors can find the historic 15th-century Ross Castle, while the Muckross Abbey is conveniently located near the lake’s southern edge. Exploring the national park via its numerous hiking trails also offers opportunities for wildlife observation.

3. Lough Derg; counties Clare, Galway & Tipperary

As Ireland’s third-largest lake, Lough Derg traverses three counties within the Shannon River Basin and is recognized as the southernmost lake along the River Shannon. Historically referred to as Lough Dergart, it features a scenic 179-kilometer shoreline adorned with charming towns and villages.

The picturesque environment, complemented by the surrounding Irish countryside, renders it an ideal location for relaxation. Opportunities abound for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding along the lakeshore, while water activities such as sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, and wakeboarding can also be enjoyed.

The region boasts numerous castles and historical landmarks, including the 17th-century Portumna Castle, Brian Boru’s Fort, and Dromineer Castle. A boat excursion to Holy Island is particularly recommended, as it hosts one of Ireland’s most renowned monastic sites.

4. Lough Neagh; Counties Antrim, Down, Armagh, Tyrone & Londonderry

As the largest lake in the British Isles, Lough Neagh encompasses 39,200 hectares and spans five counties in Northern Ireland. Notably, it provides 40 percent of Northern Ireland’s freshwater supply.

Though privately owned by the Earl of Shaftesbury, the lake remains accessible for public enjoyment. Surrounding marinas and water sports facilities offer boat rentals as well as activities including banana boating, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding.

For those who prefer dry land, cycling and hiking opportunities abound, alongside golf courses situated along the lakeshore. Moreover, the area is a sanctuary for birdwatchers due to its diverse avian population present year-round.

5. Lough Ree; Counties of Longford, Westmeath & Roscommon

Similar to Lough Derg, Lough Ree is located along the Shannon River in central Ireland. This lake is designated as a Special Protection Area and is recognized as an Important Bird Area due to its migratory waterfowl.

Lough Ree not only attracts birdwatchers but also anglers, particularly due to its renowned ‘hot water stretch’. Moreover, historians visit the islands of Inchcleraun and Inchbofin to explore various historical sites.

Etymologically referencing ‘Lake of Kings’, Lough Ree is home to numerous idyllic towns and villages. Additionally, notable landmarks such as Rindoon Castle and the distinctive Bogwood Sculptures can be found along its banks.

6. Lough Corrib; Counties Galway & Mayo

Encompassing 6,800 hectares, Lough Corrib is situated in western Ireland, just north of the harbor city of Galway. This lake is the largest in the Republic of Ireland and the second largest overall in the country.

Hosting over 360 islands, including the picturesque Inchagoil Island, known for its forests and beaches that provide stunning views of the Maumturk range and the Connemara mountains. Another significant site is Caislean-na-Circe, which features the national monument Hen’s Castle.

Lough Corrib is classified as both a Ramsar Site and a Special Area of Conservation due to its rich biodiversity. Fishing remains permitted, with the lake being known for its trout, pike, and salmon populations.

7. Lough Allen; Counties Leitrim & Roscommon

Situated along the River Shannon near the Iron Mountains, Lough Allen spans 3,500 hectares. The lake, shaped like an isosceles triangle, is believed to date back to Mesolithic times and later served as a site for ironworks.

Currently, Lough Allen stands as a popular fishing destination and hosts several international angling competitions annually. Although regattas were once common, they have become less frequent in recent years.

For nature enthusiasts, the stunning surroundings of the lake present an excellent opportunity for exploration. The lake also serves as a crucial habitat for various bird species, offering birdwatchers a chance to observe red-breasted mergansers, herons, jays, common sandpipers, and redpolls.

8. Lower Lough Erne; County Fermanagh

Lower Lough Erne is situated along the River Erne, within a carboniferous limestone plateau in Northern Ireland. The lake is home to approximately 90 islands and was historically an important pilgrimage destination.

Presently, Lower Lough Erne is utilized for various recreational activities, allowing visitors to unwind and absorb the beautiful scenery. The surrounding woodlands greatly enhance the area’s natural charm and are frequented by numerous bird species.

Several walking paths encircle Lower Lough Erne, with some trails hugging the shoreline. Notable areas include Ely Lodge Forest, Castle Archdale Country Park, Castle Caldwell Forest, and the Magho Cliffs Walk.

9. Lough Conn; County Mayo

Lough Conn, derived from a Gaelic mythological name, translates to ‘lake of the hounds’, associated with the hounds belonging to chieftain Modh that allegedly drowned here. The lake also features the ruins of Errew Abbey, located on a peninsula along its northwest edge.

Covering an area of 5,700 hectares, Lough Conn is renowned for its exceptional brown trout and salmon fishing, attracting anglers from around the world. Numerous boat ramps are available around the shoreline, with the optimal fishing season occurring from March to July.

To fully appreciate the scenic beauty of the lake and its stunning surroundings, embark on the picturesque Lough Conn Drive. This 140-kilometer loop navigates through various towns and villages, passing close to several ancient ruins.

10. Lough Derg; County Donegal

This site should not be mistaken for the Lough Derg located in counties Clare, Galway, and Tipperary, as this particular Lough Derg is situated in the far northwest of the island, adjacent to the Northern Ireland border. The lake, covering 890 hectares, is primarily renowned for St Patrick’s Purgatory, a pilgrimage site located on Station Island.

St Patrick’s Purgatory features a millennium-old three-day pilgrimage comprising one minimal meal, circular walks around the island, and a 24-hour vigil. Historically, it is thought to have been the gateway to Purgatory.

Even for those lacking religious inclinations, the stunning views of the monastery from various points, especially the southern end of the lake, are worth enjoying. Furthermore, Lough Derg serves as an excellent fishing location, particularly for brown trout, perch, and pike.

11. Lough Derravaragh; County Westmeath

This boot-shaped lake, located along the River Inny, is a favored destination for a variety of recreational activities. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and boating are prevalent pastimes in this picturesque site.

Completely enveloped by the Lough Derravaragh Natural Heritage Area, the lake is stunningly scenic. The heritage zone encompasses wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands, providing ideal habitats for wildlife enthusiasts.

Lough Derravaragh is often linked to the Irish legend of the Children of Lír, detailing how four of King Lír’s children transformed into swans and resided on the lake for 300 years. Following that, they spent an additional 300 years along the Straits of Myle and a further 300 years across the Atlantic Ocean.

12. Lough Tay; County Wicklow

Lough Tay is a compact and picturesque lake situated at an elevation of 246 meters in the Wicklow Mountains. It is recognized as one of the most photographed landscapes in County Wicklow.

This beautiful lake is often referred to as ‘The Guinness Lake’ due to its proximity to an estate owned by the Guinness family along its northern shore. To fully appreciate the views of the lake and the estate, visitors are encouraged to enjoy a pint of Guinness at a pub located on the surrounding cliffs.

Access to the lake itself is restricted, as it is private property; however, stunning vistas are best enjoyed from above, particularly at Military Road, where it intersects with the Wicklow Way.

13. Caragh Lake; County Kerry

This expansive and picturesque lake is a must-see for visitors to County Kerry. Caragh Lake is nestled within a designated Special Area of Conservation, surrounded by beautiful countryside.

The options for activities at this glacial lake are somewhat limited, primarily focusing on fishing and boating. Instead, many individuals visit to enjoy its natural splendor, both from within the water and along its scenic banks.

Dining establishments such as the Carrig Country House & Restaurant and Carrig House are located along the shoreline, providing excellent opportunities to savor a meal while taking in the stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains. Additionally, there are numerous accommodations, predominantly positioned along the northeastern shore of the lake.

14. Lough Key; County Roscommon

It is believed that Lough Key takes its name from a mythical figure named Cé, a druid of the god Nuada, associated with the location of his grave.

Encompassing 844 hectares, the lake is an oasis of tranquility, surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation. Additionally, the Lough Key Forest Park, located at the southern tip of the lake, is a popular destination for walks and outdoor activities.

Lough Key is home to various islands, including Castle Island, which features the National Monument McDermott’s Castle, and Trinity and Church Islands, where remnants of medieval monasteries can be explored.

15. Lough Mask; Counties Galway & Mayo

Lough Mask is a limestone lake situated just north of Lough Corrib in western Ireland. Covering 8,300 hectares, this lake is recognized for having the highest water volume of all lakes in Ireland.

Anglers from across the globe flock to this lake for its renowned trout fishing. In fact, it hosts the World Cup Trout Fly Fishing Championship annually, drawing considerable attention from fishing enthusiasts.

The lake features several islands on its eastern side, which is the shallower area of Lough Mask and is recognized as the optimal section for fishing.