Top 8 Lakes around Leitrim
Best lakes around Leitrim are found in a region characterized by its natural beauty and diverse aquatic landscapes. County Leitrim features numerous picturesque lakes nestled among mountains and woodlands, offering varied natural features. These bodies of water contribute to the county's unique geographic character, providing an environment for outdoor activities and wildlife. The area is known for its serene landscapes and opportunities for historical exploration and immersion in nature.
Best lakes around Leitrim
- The most popular lakes is Slieve Binnian summit, a summit that offers some of the best views in the Mournes. It provides fantastic views down to Silent Valley Reservoir and south towards Carlingford.
- Another must-see spot is Silent Valley Reservoir, a viewpoint. This reservoir is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes, offering well-kept paths and a quiet atmosphere.
- Visitors also love Slieve Loughshannagh summit, a viewpoint that rewards hikers with wide, open views over Silent Valley, Slieve Binnian, and the western Mournes. The climb is not overly demanding, and the summit has a peaceful, windswept feel.
- Leitrim is known for large freshwater lakes, smaller loughs, and designated swimming spots. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with historical significance to those ideal for recreation.
- The lakes around Leitrim are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 photos and over 120 upvotes shared by users.
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
Highlight • Viewpoint
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
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Blue Lough
Highlight • Lake
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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 natural features can I see around Leitrim's lakes?
Leitrim's lakes offer diverse natural beauty. You can find impressive mountain backdrops around Lough Allen and Glenade Lough, unique ecosystems with diverse fish species in Lough Melvin, and protected Old Oak Woodlands surrounding Lough Gill. For a more rugged experience, the Blue Lough is a picturesque mountain lake embedded in a wide trough valley.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Leitrim?
Yes, several lakes in Leitrim are great for families. Keeldra Lough is Leitrim's only officially designated swimming spot, known for its excellent water quality, sandy shore, and amenities like toilets, changing rooms, and parking. The Silent Valley Duck Pond also offers a gentle spot with picnic benches and a kids' play park.
Where can I go wild swimming in Leitrim?
For wild swimming, Keeldra Lough is an officially designated spot with clear, calm waters and a sandy shore. Lough Allen also offers a prime wild swimming spot at Cormongan Pier, suitable for all skill levels. Lough Melvin is another favored spot for wild swimming, with a sandy shore near Rossinver, known for its excellent water quality.
Which lakes in Leitrim are best for fishing?
Leitrim is a fantastic destination for anglers. Lough Allen is popular for trout and pike. Lough Melvin is internationally renowned for its salmon and a unique community of brown trout, including Ferox, Gillaroo, and Sonaghen, as well as Arctic Char. Garadice Lough is also a popular fishing destination, home to species such as bream, roach, rudd, tench, perch, and pike.
Are there any historical sites near Leitrim's lakes?
Yes, several lakes have historical significance. Near Lough Allen, you can observe historical remnants like crannogs (ancient fortified dwellings) when water levels are low, and the ruins of an early Christian church on Inishmagrath. Lough Rynn is famous for the Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens, and the ruins of the medieval Mac Raghnaill's Castle are also nearby. Garadice Lough has early mentions in 9th-century Irish Annals.
What outdoor activities are available near Leitrim's lakes?
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, you can find various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes available, including challenging trails like 'Route 7 - The Rostrevor Route' or 'Kilbroney Park – Rostrevor Forest loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as 'Rostrevor trails park loop' and 'Pierce's Castle climb loop'. You can explore more options for cycling, MTB, and gravel biking around Leitrim.
Are there walking trails around Leitrim's lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer scenic walking opportunities. Garadice Lough features a beautiful loop walk around its perimeter. The Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens on Lough Rynn provide tranquil walks through scenic woodland. Even the Silent Valley Reservoir, though not in Leitrim, offers well-kept paths for visitors to stroll along.
What makes Lough Melvin unique?
Lough Melvin is internationally renowned for its unique ecosystem and pristine condition. It's a significant salmon and trout fishery, attracting anglers with its early run of Atlantic salmon and a distinctive fish community that includes three unique varieties of brown trout: Ferox, Gillaroo, and Sonaghen, as well as Arctic Char.
Can I find literary connections near Leitrim's lakes?
Yes, Lough Gill is famously associated with the poet W.B. Yeats. Its most famous island, Innisfree, inspired his renowned poem 'The Lake Isle of Innisfree', making it a significant spot for literary enthusiasts.
What amenities are available at Keeldra Lough?
Keeldra Lough, as Leitrim's only officially designated swimming spot, offers convenient amenities for visitors. These include toilets, changing rooms, and parking facilities, making it a comfortable and accessible choice for families and swimmers.
Are there any lakes with folklore or legends in Leitrim?
Yes, Glenade Lough is steeped in local folklore. It is associated with the legend of the Dobhar Chú, a mythical 'water dog' monster, adding an intriguing mystical element to its tranquil setting within the spectacular Glenade Valley.
What is the largest lake in County Leitrim?
The largest of the three main lakes on the River Shannon, with the majority located within County Leitrim, is Lough Allen. It is nestled between the Sliabh an Iarainn and Arigna Mountains, offering impressive natural surroundings.
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