Swim, kayak, hike and discover waterfalls when you visit this huge lake in the northwest of the Republic of Ireland.
Embark on a day of outdoor fun and activities at Glencar Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake at the foot of Kings Mountain. This large body of water is surrounded by a patchwork quilt of lush green countryside and forests.
Enjoy the picturesque scenery with a walk. From the car park, there are three walking routes that take in different parts of the area. Stroll in the open countryside, walk through woods and along the lakeshore. Book a kayak tour of the 0.4-square mile (1.15-square kilometer) lake with local operators. If the weather is mild and the water is calm, go for a swim.
Amble along a paved path to the northeast corner of the lake for the Glencar Waterfall, which drops 50 feet (15 meters) into a deep pool. The cascade was immortalized in The Stolen Child, a poem by W.B. Yeats, a towering figure of 19th and 20th-century Irish and British literature. The poem was first published in 1889 and tells of a child beguiled by fairies.
For a closer look at the gushing water, climb the flight of steps on one side of the fall. If you are feeling hungry, stop for refreshments at the nearby café, which is close to a playground for children. Alternatively, bring a picnic with you and spread out on the grass or take advantage of the picnic tables. Then continue your wanderings through the countryside and see other waterfalls nearby.
Glencar Lake is located approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) northeast of Sligo. There is no public transportation to this rural location so drive and use the free car park. Save some time in your day to explore more outdoor wonders after your lakeside visit. These include Rosses Point peninsula, the Benbulben rock formation and the Devil's Chimney, which lays claim to being Ireland's highest waterfall. All are within a few miles of Glencar Lake.
