Top 9 Lakes around Inishturk

Inishturk's lakes and lagoons offer a blend of serene, untouched landscapes and unique geological formations. You can find tranquil freshwater lakes like Lough Coolaknick, known for its calm, reflective waters and wild beauty. Additionally, Port an Dún, a natural lagoon, features a narrow entrance creating an ideal tidal swimming spot with exceptionally clear waters.

Yes, Lough Coolaknick is a focal point for the "Lough Coolaknick Loop," an easy to moderate 5km walking trail. This path guides visitors through the island's interior, offering expansive views of West Mayo's mountains and neighboring Connemara. For more hiking options, you can explore various routes in the area, such as the easy hikes around Inishturk or more general hiking around Inishturk.

The area around Lough Coolaknick is rich in history, featuring beehive houses dating back to 1500 BC and ancient Bronze Age cooking sites known as Fulachta Fiadh. The loop walk also leads towards the ruins of a Napoleonic Signal Tower on Knocklacken Mountain. Overlooking Port an Dún lagoon are the remnants of a 9th-century Dún (fort), which was once a Viking base.

Many spots around Inishturk's lakes are family-friendly. For instance, the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho offers panoramic views with picnic benches. Rossmore Point Beacon provides serene views from a bench, and Carrick Lough is a lovely place for a picnic. The Lough Coolaknick Loop is also an easy to moderate walk suitable for families.

The best time to visit Inishturk's lakes is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers more favorable weather for walking, swimming, and enjoying the outdoor scenery. However, the island's wild beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different experience.

Besides walking and hiking around Lough Coolaknick, Port an Dún is popular for tidal swimming and pier jumping at high tide. Its clear waters are also inviting for snorkeling and scuba diving. The wider region offers various outdoor activities, including mountain biking trails and additional hiking routes.

Yes, Port an Dún, a natural lagoon on Inishturk's eastern side, is an excellent spot for wild swimming and pier jumping at high tide. Its unique geology with a narrow entrance creates an ideal, sheltered environment, and its exceptionally clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Visitors appreciate the serene tranquility and wild beauty of Lough Coolaknick, often finding it a peaceful escape with prime photo opportunities. The panoramic views over Lough Erne from places like the Cliffs of Magho are also highly praised. Many enjoy the unique experience of swimming and exploring the clear waters of Port an Dún.

Beyond the main attractions, Carrick Lough, though small, is a lovely place set amongst green countryside, popular with anglers and offering a wonderful picnic spot. Meenameen Lough, nestled in Lough Navar Forest, is another peaceful and quiet spot with plenty of tree cover, perfect for taking a break in an unspoilt landscape.

Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the broader region. You can find various MTB trails around Inishturk, including routes like the Scarplands Cycle Trail or longer, more challenging loops that incorporate views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes.

Absolutely. The View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho provides sensational panoramic views. Rossmore Point Beacon also offers serene views over Lough Erne. Additionally, the Boa Island Road cuts through Boa Island, providing views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More, and Cruninish Islands.