Bay Lough – A Corrie Lake in the Knockmealdown Mountains

Overview

Bay Lough, sometimes written Baylough, is the classic corrie lake that sits on the slopes of Knockaunabulloga, one of the peaks that form the Knockmealdown Mountain range. The lake lies just outside the village of Clogheen in South Tipperary and is a magnet for hill walkers, photographers and anyone who enjoys a quiet, high‑altitude water‑edge. The lake’s surface mirrors the surrounding peaks, and on a clear day the view stretches across the Golden Vale to the distant Galtee Mountains.

History & Folklore

The name “Bay Lough” is thought to be a mis‑interpretation of the Irish word bealach (pronounced “ba‑lock”), meaning “pass” or “way”. Early English map‑makers assumed the word described the lake itself, when in fact it originally referred to the mountain pass that runs alongside it. This linguistic quirk is a reminder of the many Anglicised place‑names that pepper the Irish landscape.

The pass that skirts Bay Lough is believed to date back to the early Christian pilgrim St Declan, who travelled from Ardmore to Cashel along a route that later became known as St Declan’s Way (Rian Bó Phadraig). Hikers can still follow sections of this historic trail, linking the lake to a broader spiritual and cultural landscape.

Local folklore adds a darker shade to the lake’s reputation. According to tradition, a woman known as “Petticoat Loose” was condemned to empty the lake with a thimble – a task that, of course, could never be completed. Another long‑standing belief holds that Bay Lough is “bottomless” and that swimming across it is impossible, despite its modest size. These stories give the lake an aura of mystery that complements its natural beauty.

What to See & Do

Walking the Corrie

The most popular way to experience Bay Lough is on foot. A short, well‑marked trail leads from a small car park on the Waterford side of the lake to the water’s edge. The walk is gentle enough for families with children, yet it offers enough elevation change to feel rewarding. Walkers typically reach the furthest accessible point – roughly half a circuit around the lake – where a small viewing platform provides a panoramic snapshot of the surrounding peaks.

Connecting Trails

Beyond the immediate lake loop, the area is a hub for longer treks. The historic “Soldiers Path”, a former main road that linked Cappoquin and Lismore to Clogheen before the early‑19th‑century V‑shaped road was built, now serves as a forestry trail. It can be continued past the lake toward Mount Anglesby for those seeking a more challenging ascent.

St Declan’s Way also passes close to Bay Lough, allowing walkers to combine a spiritual pilgrimage with mountain scenery. The Vee viewpoint, a short drive away, offers sweeping vistas of the valley below and is a popular photo stop for those touring the Knockmealdown range.

Seasonal Highlights

The lake’s surroundings burst into colour during the last two weeks of May and the first two weeks of June, when rhododendron shrubs in the surrounding woodlands flower in profuse pink and purple hues. This short window creates a spectacular contrast against the dark lake water and the grey‑green mountain slopes – a favourite moment for landscape photographers.

Flora & Fauna

The rhododendron bloom is the most conspicuous seasonal feature, but the mixed‑oak woodland around the lake also supports a variety of native wildflowers such as bluebells and wood anemones in spring. Birdwatchers may spot meadow pipits, skylarks and, on quieter days, the occasional buzzard soaring over the corrie. The lake itself is home to brown trout, though swimming is discouraged by local folklore.

Photography & Art

For visual inspiration, the photographer Shooting Séan has compiled a series of moody black‑and‑white images of Bay Lough, available on his blog. The stark contrasts of the lake against the craggy terrain make it an ideal subject for both colour and monochrome work.

Practical Information

Bay Lough is a completely free attraction; there is no admission charge and no need to book in advance. The most convenient access point is the small car park on the Waterford side of the lake. The exact location can be found using the Loc8 code YZS‑26‑53G (see the map on the Clogheen website). Visitors should note that the parking area is the terminus of the road – you cannot drive beyond the lot, but the trailhead begins immediately opposite the car park.

Because the lake lies within a mountainous environment, the path can be wet or slippery after rain, but the surface is generally firm enough for standard walking shoes. The trail is not wheelchair‑accessible due to natural terrain and uneven ground.

Getting There

From Clogheen, follow the local signs toward the Waterford side of the pass; the road is well‑marked and leads directly to the parking area. Public transport options are limited, so a private vehicle is the most reliable way to reach the site. Once parked, the walk to the lake takes about 10‑15 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Visitor Tips

• Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
• The trail is short but can be steep in places; keep an eye on children and pets.
• No facilities (toilets, café) are available on‑site – plan accordingly.
• Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect ground‑nesting birds.
• Respect the folklore: swimming is discouraged and the lake is considered bottomless by tradition.

Nearby Attractions

While in the area, consider visiting the nearby Vee viewpoint, Grubb’s Monument, the Liam Lynch Monument at Goatenbridge, and the historic Cahir Castle. For a broader mountain experience, the Devil’s Bit Mountain – Legend, Views & Walks in County Tipperary offers a contrasting landscape a short drive away.

For more detailed walking routes, see the Walks page on the Clogheen tourism site.

Further Information

The official Bay Lough page on the Clogheen website provides up‑to‑date maps and additional visitor advice: Bay Lough – Clogheen.

Bay Lough offers a blend of natural splendour, gentle adventure and a touch of myth, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Knockmealdown Mountains or seeking a peaceful lakeside walk in County Tipperary.