Top 5 Lakes around Clare
Lakes around Clare, Ireland, offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The county is characterized by its freshwater lakes, some of which are part of larger river systems or unique karst environments like The Burren. These lakes provide settings for various outdoor activities and are home to diverse ecosystems.
Best lakes around Clare
- The most popular lakes is Craigavon Lakes, a lake that features family-friendly, traffic-free cycling and walking paths, including some single-track gravel sections. The paths are wide and suitable for families, offering views of the water.
- Another must-see spot is Lurgan Park Lake, a viewpoint. This lake has a path for cycling and walking and is also used by anglers.
- Visitors also love Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, a forest located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh. It offers gravel and woodland trails, bird watching hides, and a discovery center.
- Clare is known for its freshwater lakes, including those within karst landscapes and larger river systems. These bodies of water support various fish species and provide habitats for wildlife.
- The lakes around Clare are appreciated by the komoot community, with 14 upvotes and 6 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Craigavon Lakes
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View of Lough Neagh
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Lurgan Park Lake
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Bench With a View of Lough Neagh, Oxford Island
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At Kinnagoe Marina, the boats rock in the water, their masts reaching silently into the sky. The reflections in the water and the quiet clinking of the rigging put you in a maritime mood. As you walk further, dense bushes alternate with sparse forest patches through which you can look through and the evening sun's rays illuminate the path. It is a beautiful place to experience nature and tranquility before continuing your hike.
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Oxford Island National Nature Reserve
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The reserve is also home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons, so keep your eyes peeled as you jog along.
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Tips from the Community
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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On your hike around Oxford Island, you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest. A bench on the shore invites you to sit down for a moment and enjoy the view of Lough Neagh. The gentle lapping of the water and the swaying trees create a peaceful atmosphere - an ideal place to just take a deep breath. At Kinnagoe Marina, the boats rock in the water, their masts reaching silently into the sky. The reflections in the water and the quiet clinking of the rigging put you in a maritime mood. As you walk further, dense bushes alternate with sparse forest patches through which you can look through and the evening sun's rays illuminate the path. It is a beautiful place to experience nature and tranquility before continuing your hike.
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The beautiful Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh. The reserve hosts a number of wonderful gravel and woodland trails as well as bird watching hides, a discovery centre, marina, and a bushcraft centre. The reserve is also home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons, so keep your eyes peeled as you jog along.
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Popular spot for watersports and fishing to the south west of Belfast. Good views if you're taking a break.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for visitors in County Clare?
Among the most popular lakes in County Clare are Lough Derg, known for its vastness and water activities; Lough Inchiquin, nestled in The Burren with serene walks; and Lough Graney, appreciated for its tranquility and literary connections.
What water activities are available on the lakes in County Clare?
Lough Derg is a prime location for water activities, offering sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and fishing. It also features two Blue Flag inland beaches at Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon, complete with picnic facilities and an Aqua Park at Ballycuggeran.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, Lough Derg offers boat trips to Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), a renowned monastic site featuring a well-preserved round tower, ruins of six churches, and three cemeteries. Additionally, Lough Graney is famous for being the setting of Brian Merriman's 1780 poem, 'Cúirt An Mheán Oíche', commemorated by a carved stone. Lough Inchiquin also has the nearby ruins of Inchiquin Castle, adding historical context to the area.
Which lakes are best for fishing in County Clare?
Anglers will find excellent opportunities across several lakes. Lough Graney is known for perch, ferox trout, roach, and bream. Lough Inchiquin is popular for brown trout, pike, rudd, perch, and tench. Lough Atedaun supports perch, rudd, pike, and the critically endangered European eel. Lough Bridget is also a charming spot, well-stocked with coarse fish like roach, bream, tench, and pike, with good fishing stands and boat launching facilities.
Are there hiking opportunities around the lakes?
Yes, the Slieve Bernagh range surrounding Lough Derg offers excellent hiking opportunities with stunning lakeside views. Lough Inchiquin also provides hiking trails around its shores, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging explorations of The Burren landscape.
What unique natural features can be found among Clare's lakes?
Lough Inchiquin and Lough Atedaun are both situated within the unique karst landscape of The Burren and are part of the East Burren Complex Special Area of Conservation, highlighting their ecological importance. Lough Gash is a notable turlough (a seasonal lake common in karst areas) and a Special Area of Conservation, recognized for its distinctive plant communities, including rare species.
Which lakes are considered 'hidden gems' for nature lovers?
Lough Atedaun, though it can have overgrown banks and lower water levels in summer, is considered a 'hidden gem' for anglers and nature lovers due to its diverse fish population and connection to the River Fergus system. Lough Bridget also offers tranquil surroundings ideal for peaceful walks and wildlife observation.
What amenities are available at the lakes for visitors?
Lough Derg features Blue Flag inland beaches at Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon, which include picnic facilities, and Ballycuggeran also has an Aqua Park. Lough Bridget offers well-maintained fishing stands and easy boat launching facilities, particularly at Silvergrove and Swan Island.
Are there any lakes suitable for peaceful walks and nature observation?
Lough Inchiquin is known for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and opportunities for peaceful walks and nature observation. Lough Bridget also provides tranquil surroundings, making it ideal for peaceful strolls and wildlife spotting.
What is a turlough and where can I find one in County Clare?
A turlough is a unique type of seasonal lake found in karst areas, which fills and empties depending on groundwater levels. Lough Gash, located west of Newmarket-on-Fergus, is a notable turlough in County Clare, recognized as a Special Area of Conservation for its distinctive plant communities and ecological interest.
Where can I find more information about the East Clare area?
For more information on the East Clare area, including highlights and attractions, you can visit the official tourism website: visitclare.ie.
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