by Brian Kenny | Jul 5, 2019 | Monaghan
Annaghmakerrig Lake April 2011 Don't even think of trying to find this lake without a map, compass or sat-nav, preferably all three. The lake is located in the grounds of the Tyrone Guthrie Centre, a retreat where artists can come and stay and work on their artistic creations. Obviously the artistic community are a resourceful lot because there isn't much in the way of signposts, certainly none when you come on the R183 between Ballybay and Newbliss. However, when you do find it Annamakerrig is a lovely tranquil place. You can combine your swim with walks along the lake shore, through attractive forests. The best place to swim appears to be at the old boat house down from the main house. There is a grassy area here and you can get in along the side of the boat house. The water is fresh and cool and there are attractive views as you look across to the forests on the far side. Like all lakes you need to be careful. Swim slowly and beware of submerged rocks. This is a popular fishing lake as well, so on occasion you might be competing with the angling fraternity. Directions : View Larger Map Take the R183 from Ballybay toward Newbliss. After you go through the Swans Cross roundabout/junction the turn off for the lake is about 3-4 kilometres further on. However, as there doesn't appear to be a signpost you will need a map or maybe just ask for directions. [...]
by Brian Kenny | Jul 5, 2019 | Mayo
Doolough Valley and Lake September 2009 Doolough Valley must be one of the most spectacular locations in Ireland Doolough is best approached from Louisburgh where, after a few miles, you come over a hill and meet the wonderful view down the valley. The lake itself, Doo Lough to be precise, is flanked by the Mweelrea Mountains on one side and the Sheffrey Hills on the other. This is lovely place to stop and ramble and have a swim The road runs alongside the lake and there are various places to pull in and have a quick dip. Like all lakes it must be treated carefully, so watch out for submerged rocks and boulders Directions View Larger Map From Louisburgh you take the R335 which leads you into the valley and to the lake. This road runs all the way to Leenane at the tip of Killary Harbour OS Map No. 37 [...]
by Brian Kenny | Jul 5, 2019 | Mayo
Old Head Beach, Fallduff Strand, Louisburgh September 2009 Old Head is a popular beach located just outside Louisburgh. The beach is long, narrow and sandy. It's protected by cliffs, with an attractive old style harbour at one end. The water here is clear and it's sandy underfoot. This is a good spot for kids as it doesn't get deep too quickly. As you swim you have lovely views across the water to Croagh Patrick. Indeed, this is a good place to come and refresh yourself after your climb. The beach itself is well maintained and there is ample car parking and toilets. There's also a nice campsite nearby and Louisburgh is just a mile away. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. Blue Flag Beach 2012. Directions View Larger Map From Westport you take the R335 and drive along this coast road past the impressive slopes of Croagh Patrick. Before you get to Louisburgh you will see a right turn signposted for Old Head, follow this and it will lead you the beach. Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 30 [...]
by Brian Kenny | Jul 5, 2019 | Mayo
Mullaghroe Beach, Belmullet April 2010 Mullaghroe is a nicely curved, secluded beach. The sand is soft, the water is clear and sheltered and there are nice views across Blacksod Bay. Not surprisingly, on a nice day in April, we were the only ones there and most definitely the only ones swimming There are dunes for shelter and rocks at either end, so it's a good spot to bring the kids Mullaghroe has a small car park which leads across a small sandy stretch to the beach. It's not wheelchair accessible but with effort you could lift a buggy across. In the car park there is one small, marble like picnic table which seem to be a feature of these parts. Nice and quite surreal Blue Flag Beach . Not sure about lifeguards - check with Mayo County Council Directions View Larger Map From Belmullet you take the R313 and watch out for a left turn signposted for Mullach Rua beach Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 22 [...]
by Brian Kenny | Jul 5, 2019 | Kerry
Derrynane Beach July 2009 Derrynane beach is a real gem. When we were there last, the sun shone, the sea was blue and it felt and looked like a Greek Island. The beach is a lovely mix of clear sand, rocks to scramble over, coves and small beaches. There are large stretches to walk on and explore. However, steer clear of swimming in the section marked with warning signs for dangerous currents. At low tide you can walk across to nearby Abbey Island where its graveyard is the burial place of Mary O'Connell, wife ofThe Liberator, Daniel. He got a round tower in Glasnevin and Mary ended up in an overgrown and poorly kept graveyard. The beach has access from nearby Derrynane House, Daniel O'Connell's home (open to the public). Beside it there is a nice coffee shop. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer. Blue Flag beach. Directions View Larger Map The beach is located off the N 70 Ring of Kerry Road. When you get to the small town of Caherdaniel watch out for the signpost to Derrynane. You can park at the house car park and walk a few hundred yards to the beach. Alternatively a bit further on there is another car park with an even shorter walk. There are toilets at this car park. Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 83 [...]