Top 9 Lakes around Cashel
Best lakes around Cashel, County Tipperary, offer a diverse range of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. While Cashel itself is not directly on a major lake, the surrounding region provides access to significant loughs. This area is characterized by its rich history, scenic landscapes, and a variety of aquatic environments, from vast expanses to glacial corrie lakes. Visitors can explore a mix of mountain, forest, and lakeside terrains.
Best lakes around Cashel
- The most popular lakes is View of Lough…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho
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Rossmore Point Beacon
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Castle Archdale Marina
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Carrick Lough
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View from the Cliffs of Magho
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Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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The viewpoint at the Cliffs of Magho is sensational. Enjoy panoramic views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean and Blue Stack mountains. Picnic benches, bins, and an information board are provided at the top.
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Covering an area of 9 acres (3.7 ha), Carrick Lough is a small lake compared to some of its impressive neighbours such as Lough Erne. Set amongst green countryside, the lake, although small, is still a lovely place to visit. With a thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach, the lake is popular with anglers. It's also home to diverse flora and fauna. The lakeshore makes for a wonderful picnic on a bike trip!
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Even when you climb to the lookout point, you always have great views of the lake - and on the way several benches invite you to take a break during the ascent.
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Breathtaking views of Lough Earne.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit near Cashel?
While Cashel itself isn't directly on a major lake, County Tipperary offers several popular and picturesque options. Lough Derg is a vast lake known for water sports and scenic villages. For hiking and natural beauty, Lake Muskry in the Galtee Mountains and Bay Lough in the Knockmealdown Mountains are highly regarded. The unique Blue Lagoon (Portroe Quarry) is a popular spot for divers.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Cashel?
Yes, there are excellent hiking opportunities. The Lough Derg Way offers extensive routes along Lough Derg's banks, through forests, and along old roadways. Lake Muskry features a moderate 8.7 km looped trail with panoramic views in the Galtee Mountains. Bay Lough is also a favorite for hill walkers and is part of the historic St. Declan's Way.
What kind of water activities can I do on the lakes near Cashel?
Lough Derg is a hub for water sports, offering kayaking, canoeing, and boat trips. Fishing is also popular there, with species like brown trout and pike. At Bay Lough, kayaking is available on select dates. The Blue Lagoon (Portroe Quarry) is primarily known for controlled scuba diving experiences due to its unique underwater features.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities near Cashel?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. Lough Derg has family-friendly attractions like Aqua Splash Waterpark in Dromineer, along with cycling routes and boat trips. The walk to Bay Lough from the car park is suitable for families, and its tranquil atmosphere is great for quiet observation.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Cashel?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late spring and summer (May to September) are ideal for water activities and hiking, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. For Bay Lough, late May and early June are particularly spectacular when the rhododendron plants are in bloom.
Are there historical or cultural sites near these lakes?
Yes, Lough Derg is home to Holy Island (Inis Cealtra), a significant monastic settlement accessible by boat. Bay Lough is steeped in local folklore, famously associated with the legend of Petticoat Loose, and is part of the historic St. Declan's Way. Lake Muskry also has associations with Irish mythology.
What makes Lake Muskry unique among the lakes near Cashel?
Lake Muskry is a stunning glacial corrie lake, formed over 25,000 years ago in the Galtee Mountains. It sits at 493m above sea level and is the largest of the five corrie lakes in the Galtees. Its unique mountain ecosystem, dramatic Old Red Sandstone landscape, and sense of peaceful stillness make it a special destination for hikers.
Can I go fishing in the lakes near Cashel?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity, especially on Lough Derg. Its waters are home to various species including brown trout, pike, perch, roach, salmon, and bream, making it a prime location for anglers.
What is the Blue Lagoon (Portroe Quarry) and what can I do there?
The Blue Lagoon is a former slate quarry in Portroe that has filled with freshwater, creating strikingly deep blue, crystalline waters. It's primarily a popular spot for divers, offering controlled scuba diving experiences through the Portroe Dive Centre. Its unique underwater landscape includes remnants of its industrial past.
How far are these lakes from Cashel?
The driving distances vary: Lake Muskry is approximately 31.6 km (about 38 minutes) from Cashel. The Blue Lagoon (Portroe Quarry) is around 40-50 km away. Bay Lough is approximately 49.8 km from Cashel. Lough Derg is the furthest, about 62-68 km (around an hour's drive) from Cashel.
Are there any specific natural features to look out for around the lakes?
Around Lake Muskry, you'll find dramatic Old Red Sandstone formations and natural rock formations like O'Loughnan's Castle. Bay Lough is known for its serene, reflective waters that mirror the surrounding slopes, and in late May/early June, the rhododendron blooms are spectacular. Lough Derg boasts 179km of indented shoreline and approximately 30 islands.
Most popular attractions around Cashel
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