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Visit Glencar Lake and Waterfall
Shared by counties Leitrim and Sligo, Glencar Valley is where you’ll find the romantic Glencar Waterfall, hidden within the treeline surrounding Glencar Lake.
Glencar Waterfall is like something out of a fairytale. In a dark, intimate space with tree branches hanging overhead, glistening streams of water pour 15 metres down from moss-covered rocks into a green pool surrounded by ferns. The best views of this enchanted scene are from the elevated viewing platform. It’s a meditative space encompassed by nature and is so beautiful that it even inspired poet WB Yeats. Written in 1889, The Stolen Child is set within this idyllic landscape – "where the wandering water gushes" – and explores the faerie folklore that surrounds it.
After crashing down from the waterfall, the water flows into Glencar Lake, a short walk away. The best time to visit is early in the morning when fog lies low in the valley, swans glide across the still water and sheep graze lakeside on the dewy grass. This is the perfect place for salmon fishing – just make sure you secure a permit beforehand. Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are popular ways to explore the lake, but if you don’t feel like getting your feet wet, the Glencar Hill Walk (7km) might be more your speed. It takes you on a route from the car park and traverses around the edge of the lake to Glencar Waterfall. Graded as moderate, there’s a climb involved in this walk and it treats you with exceptional views of Sligo Bay, Knocknarea and the Leitrim Hills.
Glencar Lake, counties Leitrim and Sligo
Need to know
Entry to this attraction is free, and there is a car park and toilets.
Make sure you visit the teaSHED, located by the car park, if you don’t want to miss out on freshly made sandwiches, locally roasted coffee and handmade crafts for sale.
Leave your furry friends at home because unfortunately dogs are not allowed on this walking trail.
