Top 7 Lakes around Leitrim
Best lakes around Leitrim are found in a region known for its abundant waterways, nestled between mountains and offering diverse natural landscapes. This area features a collection of lakes that provide opportunities for water sports, angling, and exploring historical sites. The landscape is characterized by serene waters, lush woodlands, and unique ecosystems, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best lakes around Leitrim
- The most popular lakes is Lough Allen, a large lake known for water sports like kayaking and windsurfing, and its international reputation for fishing. It is a significant natural feature nestled between Sliabh an Iarainn and the Arigna Mountains.
- Another must-see spot is Lough Gill, a picturesque freshwater lake straddling the border with Sligo. Visitors can explore its beauty through boat tours and enjoy the surrounding woodlands.
- Visitors also love Lough Melvin, a pristine post-glacial lake recognized for its unique range of plants and animals. It is a designated Nature Reserve and Special Area of Conservation.
- Leitrim is known for large lakes, picturesque loughs, and smaller, tranquil ponds. The region offers a variety of aquatic environments to explore, from expansive waters ideal for boating to secluded spots perfect for swimming or birdwatching.
- The lakes around Leitrim are appreciated by the komoot community, with 126 upvotes and 101 photos highlighting their natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Slieve Binnian summit
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Fantastic views down to silent valley reservoir and south towards Carlingford.
As with any hill walking - be prepared for a change in weather and have good footwear. Enjoy
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Silent Valley Reservoir
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Situated in the Mourne Mountains AONB near Kilkeel, Silent Valley Reservoir not only supplies most of the water for County Down and Belfast, but it is also a beautiful spot to visit.
Nestled in the heart of the Mournes between Slieve Binnian and Slieve Muck, Silent Valley lives up to its name as one of the most peaceful and tranquil spots in County Down.
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Slieve Loughshannagh summit
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Blue Lough
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Silent Valley Duck Pond
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Tips from the Community
The Duck Pond feels like a calm secret waiting to be discovered. Recommended by hikers and tucked into a protected area, it’s a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds and mountains frame the quiet mirror below.
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Slieve Loughshannagh is one of the quieter summits in the Mourne Mountains, but it rewards hikers with wide, open views over Silent Valley, Slieve Binnian, and the western Mournes. The climb isn’t too demanding, and the summit has a peaceful, windswept feel, making it a lovely spot to pause and take in the rugged beauty of the landscape.
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Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.
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The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.
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At 617m high, Slieve Loughshannagh isn't the highest in the Mournes but it does offer fantastic views down over the lough and deeper into the Mournes.
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Nice duck pond with picnic benches and kids play park
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The Blue Lough is a picturesque mountain lake embedded in a wide trough valley in the southern Mournes. It's the perfect place, to pause, catch your breath, and enjoy the impressive nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes in Leitrim for water sports?
Lough Allen is a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kayaking, Canadian canoeing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The Lough Allen Adventure Centre provides equipment and instruction. Lough MacNean and Glencar Lake also offer activities like canoeing and SUP boarding.
Which lakes in Leitrim are best for fishing?
Lough Allen is internationally renowned for pike and trout fishing, with large pike often caught. Lough Melvin is famous for its exceptional salmon and trout fishing, home to unique Gillaroo, Sonaghan, and Ferox trout. Lough MacNean is popular for boat fishing, especially for pike and trout during the mayfly season. Lough Garadice is a significant coarse fishing destination, abundant with bream, tench, roach, and pike. For more information on angling, you can visit Leitrim Tourism's angling page.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Leitrim with amenities?
Yes, Keeldra Lough is Leitrim's only officially designated swimming spot, featuring excellent water quality, a sandy shore, and facilities like toilets, changing rooms, and parking. Lough MacNean Amenity Area also provides car parking, picnic areas, and a playground. Acres Lake in Drumshanbo offers a floating boardwalk and is ideal for a relaxing break with children.
Which lakes offer scenic walks or hiking trails?
Lough Gill is surrounded by lush woodlands like Hazelwood and Slish Wood, providing scenic walks and cycling trails. Keeldra Lough features a 2.7 km lakeside walk. Glencar Lake has three walking routes from its car park, exploring the countryside, woods, and lakeshore, with the Glencar Hill Walk offering exceptional views. Lough Melvin also offers diverse hiking landscapes with crystal-clear waters and rocky shorelines.
What historical or cultural sites can be found near Leitrim's lakes?
Lough Gill is famously associated with poet W.B. Yeats and features Parke's Castle, a 17th-century fortified manor house overlooking the lake. Lough MacNean lies within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, offering access to unique geological landscapes and ancient woodlands, along with a sculpture trail. Lough Rynn is home to the luxurious Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens.
Where can I find wild swimming spots in Leitrim?
Cormongan Pier on Lough Allen is a popular swimming spot within the Shannon Blueway, known for its calm waters. Keeldra Lough is an officially designated swimming spot with excellent water quality and a sandy shore. The sandy shore near Rossinver on Lough Melvin is also noted for its excellent water quality and is a favored spot for wild swimming.
Are there any unique natural features or wildlife to observe around Leitrim's lakes?
Lough Allen is home to the rare Irish Lady's Tresses orchid and pollan, a freshwater fish relict from the last Ice Age. Lough Gill is a protected site supporting Atlantic Salmon, otters, and pine martens. Lough Melvin is internationally recognized for its unique range of plants and animals, including three distinct species of trout. Glenade Lough is a Special Area of Conservation supporting unique wildlife like the white-clawed crayfish.
What outdoor activities, besides water sports, are available near Leitrim's lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. For broader outdoor activities in the region, you can explore various routes. For example, you can find hiking routes around Leitrim, road cycling routes, and general cycling tours in the area.
Which lake is known for its association with W.B. Yeats?
Lough Gill is famously associated with the poet W.B. Yeats, who drew inspiration from its serene beauty, particularly the iconic Lake Isle of Innisfree. Glencar Lake is also renowned for its proximity to Glencar Waterfall, which was immortalized in Yeats' poem "The Stolen Child".
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Leitrim?
The lakes in Leitrim offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn provides stunning foliage for walks, while winter offers tranquil, atmospheric landscapes for quieter visits. Specific activities like fishing may have seasonal peaks, such as the mayfly season for trout fishing on Lough MacNean.
Are there any lakes with unique engineering or boardwalks?
Acres Lake in Drumshanbo is home to Ireland's first floating boardwalk. This 600-meter boardwalk forms the beginning of a 6.5 km linear walking and cycling trail along the Shannon Blueway, offering spectacular scenery.
Which lakes are known for their picturesque settings and viewpoints?
Lough Gill is exceptionally picturesque with its small islands and lush woodlands. Glencar Lake is renowned for its stunning setting and its close proximity to the iconic Glencar Waterfall, offering magical views. Lough Allen, nestled between Sliabh an Iarainn and the Arigna Mountains, provides expansive lake views, particularly from Cormongan Pier.
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