Ireland is a country known for its natural beauty, and one of its most stunning features is its vast network of lakes. With over 12,000 lakes, or loughs as they are known in Ireland, the country is home to some of the most breathtaking and serene bodies of water in the world. These loughs are spread throughout the country, from the rugged coastlines of the west to the rolling hills of the midlands.
The largest lough in Ireland is Lough Neagh, which is located in Northern Ireland. It covers an area of over 150 square miles and is surrounded by picturesque countryside. Lough Corrib is the second-largest lough in Ireland and is located in the west of the country. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Other notable loughs in Ireland include Lough Derg, Lough Allen, and Lough Erne, each with its unique charm and character.
Visitors to Ireland can enjoy a wide range of activities on these loughs, including fishing, boating, and swimming. Many of the loughs are also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including otters, swans, and herons. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, the loughs of Ireland offer something for everyone.
Top 5 Lakes in Ireland
Ireland is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the world. From the serene waters of Lough Corrib to the vast expanse of Lough Erne, there is no shortage of stunning lakes to explore. Here are the top 5 lakes in Ireland:
Lough Corrib
Lough Corrib is located in the west of Ireland and is the second-largest lake in the country. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Connemara Mountains, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, swans, and herons.
Lough Derg
Lough Derg is located on the River Shannon and is the third-largest lake in Ireland. It is a popular spot for water sports, including sailing and windsurfing, and is also home to a number of historic sites, including ancient monasteries and castles. The lake is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a popular destination for walkers and hikers.
Lough Erne
Lough Erne is located in County Fermanagh and is one of the largest lakes in Ireland. It is known for its stunning scenery, including the rugged cliffs of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is also home to a number of historic sites, including the ruins of Devenish Island Monastery.
Lough Ree
Lough Ree is located on the River Shannon and is the second-largest lake on the river. It is a popular spot for fishing and boating and is also home to a number of historic sites, including the ruins of a 13th-century monastery. The lake is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a popular destination for walkers and hikers.
Lough Mask
Lough Mask is located in County Mayo and is one of the largest lakes in Ireland. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Connemara Mountains, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, swans, and herons.
Overall, Ireland’s lakes offer visitors a chance to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone on Ireland’s lakes.
Other Notable Lakes in Ireland
Lough Allen
Lough Allen is a freshwater lake located in the northwest of Ireland, in County Leitrim. It covers an area of approximately 8,000 acres and is surrounded by the Arigna Mountains. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, with species such as pike, trout, and salmon found in its waters. Visitors can also enjoy boating and kayaking on the lake, or take a walk along the Lough Allen Canal.
Lough Arrow
Lough Arrow is a glacial lake located in County Sligo, in the northwest of Ireland. The lake covers an area of approximately 1,200 acres and is known for its clear waters and scenic views. Visitors to Lough Arrow can enjoy fishing for salmon and trout, or take a walk along the lake’s shoreline. The lake is also home to several small islands, including Church Island, which is home to the ruins of a 6th-century church.
Lough Gill
Lough Gill is a freshwater lake located in County Sligo and County Leitrim, in the northwest of Ireland. It covers an area of approximately 8,000 acres and is surrounded by the Dartry Mountains. The lake is known for its scenic beauty, with several islands and peninsulas located within its waters. Visitors to Lough Gill can enjoy fishing for pike, trout, and salmon, or take a boat tour of the lake to explore its many hidden coves and inlets. The lake is also home to several historic sites, including the 17th-century Parkes Castle.
Famous Activities on Irish Lakes
Ireland is known for its beautiful lakes that offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From fishing to kayaking, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular activities to try on Irish lakes.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities on Irish lakes, and for good reason. Ireland is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, and pike. Many lakes offer boat hire and fishing equipment, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a day out on the water. Some of the best lakes for fishing include Lough Corrib, Lough Derg, and Lough Ree.
Boating
Boating is another popular activity on Irish lakes. Visitors can hire a boat and explore the lake at their own pace, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. Some lakes also offer guided tours, which provide visitors with a more in-depth look at the lake’s history and wildlife. Lough Erne, Lough Ree, and Lough Derg are some of the best lakes for boating in Ireland.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore the lakes of Ireland. Visitors can paddle through calm waters and take in the stunning scenery. Some lakes offer guided tours, while others allow visitors to explore on their own. Lough Neagh, Lough Derg, and Lough Corrib are some of the best lakes for kayaking and canoeing in Ireland.
Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity on many of Ireland’s lakes, especially during the summer months. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the stunning scenery. Some lakes have designated swimming areas, while others allow swimming anywhere on the lake. Lough Key, Lough Derg, and Lough Erne are some of the best lakes for swimming in Ireland.
Overall, Ireland’s lakes offer a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to fish, boat, kayak, or swim, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the beautiful lakes of Ireland.
Conservation Efforts for Irish Lakes
Irish lakes are an important natural resource that provide habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. However, many of these lakes are under threat from pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species. As a result, there have been numerous conservation efforts implemented to protect and restore these valuable ecosystems.
One of the primary conservation efforts for Irish lakes is the monitoring of water quality. Inland Fisheries Ireland is responsible for monitoring water quality in Irish rivers and lakes to ensure that they are meeting the standards set by the EU Water Framework Directive. This monitoring includes testing for pollutants and other contaminants that can harm aquatic life and threaten public health.
Another important conservation effort is the restoration of degraded lake habitats. Fota Wildlife Park has been a leader in this area, working to restore native habitats and remove invasive species from Irish lakes. This work includes planting native vegetation, removing invasive species such as zebra mussels, and restoring the natural flow of water in degraded areas.
Additionally, there are efforts to protect lakes from the impacts of agricultural practices. The Irish River Project has identified agriculture as a significant pressure on Irish lakes due to the potential for pollutants such as phosphorus, sediment, and pesticides to enter the waterways. To address this issue, the organization has worked with farmers to implement best management practices that reduce the amount of pollutants entering the lakes.
Overall, these conservation efforts are critical for protecting the health and biodiversity of Irish lakes. By monitoring water quality, restoring degraded habitats, and reducing the impacts of agriculture, we can ensure that these valuable ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come.
