Overview
Coomasaharn Lake (Irish: Lough Coomasaharn) lies about 4 km west of the coastal village of Glenbeigh, tucked into a valley that is hemmed in on three sides by mountains. The lake’s dark, almost black water mirrors the sky, while the surrounding peaks – Coomreagh (593 m), Teermoyle (760 m), Coomacarrea (772 m) and others – create a dramatic backdrop that changes with the light. The site is part of the Reeks District, a recognised Dark Sky Reserve with a gold‑tier rating, meaning the night sky is exceptionally clear for stargazing and night paddle‑boarding.
History & Mythology
The Coomasaharn valley is steeped in Irish legend. Ancient pathways dating back over 4,500 years criss‑cross the area, evidence of Bronze‑Age travel, early Christian pilgrimages and medieval coaching roads. According to myth, the Fianna – the legendary band of warriors led by Fionn Mac Cumhaill – hunted deer here with a pack of 500 Irish Wolf Hounds. The nearby Seefin Mountain (Suí Finn, “Seat of Finn”) and the Ogham stones on Drung Hill attest to the lasting imprint of these stories. Similar Ogham stones can be seen at the Ballintaggart Ogham Stones. The name Ciarraige, derived from Queen Maeve’s son Ciar, is thought to have given Kerry its Irish name Ciarraí.
What to See & Do
Walking the Coomasaharn Horseshoe Loop
The most celebrated activity is the Coomasaharn Horseshoe Loop Walk, a series of routes that encircle the lake on the surrounding ridge. Three popular variations are documented by ActiveME:
| Route | Distance | Approx. Time | Main Peaks | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short Loop | 12 km | 4–5 h | Coomreagh, Teermoyle, Coomacarrea, Meenteog | Moderate |
| Medium Loop | 16 km | 6–7 h | Been Hill, Mullaghnarakill, Teermoyle, Coomacarrea, Meenteog, Knocknaman | Strenuous |
| Long Loop | 24 km | 8–10 h | All of the above + Macklaun Mountain (607 m) | Strenuous |
The walk is traditionally tackled anti‑clockwise, starting at the lake’s outlet (about 7 km from the N70 at Glenbeigh). A narrow country road leads to a modest roadside parking area – space is limited, so early arrival is advisable. The route weaves past ancient rock art, Ogham stones and a mysterious stone wall that still guides hikers along the rim. Highlights include:
- Panoramic vistas of Dingle Bay, Rossbeigh and Inch Beaches to the north, the Skellig Coast and Valentia Island to the west, and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the east.
- Cultural landmarks such as the ancient wall and Bronze‑Age rock‑art panels, offering a tangible link to the valley’s 4,500‑year‑old human presence.
- Mountain summits with 360° outlooks, especially from Coomacarrea (772 m) where the sky seems to open up.
Angling & Water Activities
The lake is renowned for trout fishing; local anglers often cast from the shore or from a small boat. The water is also used for paddle‑boarding, and the Dark Sky Reserve promotes a unique night‑paddle experience where the moonlit surface reflects a canopy of stars. The lake’s calm waters make it suitable for kayaking, though the Big Five Challenge lists a night‑paddle as a specialist activity requiring a permit from the Reeks District visitor centre in Killorglin.
Dark‑Sky Stargazing
Because Coomasaharn lies within one of only four gold‑tier dark‑sky reserves worldwide, the area attracts astronomers and photographers. The low light pollution allows the Milky Way to be seen in vivid detail, and the surrounding peaks provide natural “observation decks”. The Irish Times notes that the lake’s black waters amplify the night‑time reflections, creating a surreal, meditative setting.
Practical Information
Getting There
From the Ring of Kerry (N70), turn left at the Coomasaharn sign 4.5 km west of Glenbeigh, then right at the next T‑junction. The parking area is another 2.5 km on a narrow, farm‑used road. The site is sign‑posted, and a small lay‑by provides space for a few cars; it is a restricted parking area, so leave room for local traffic.
Access & Facilities
- Parking: Limited roadside space; free of charge but shared with local farmers. Arrive early, especially in summer.
- Toilets: None at the lake itself; the nearest public facilities are at Rossbeigh Strand (≈5 km away) and in Glenbeigh village.
- Contact: Kate Kennelly, Kerry Arts Officer (arts@kerrycoco.ie) can provide up‑to‑date information on parking and any seasonal restrictions.
Navigation Aids
ActiveME supplies a free GPS‑enabled map via its mobile app – ActiveME App – which can be used alongside a traditional map and compass. The app shows stage start points, elevation profiles and way‑points for each loop variation.
Seasonal Considerations
The walk is accessible year‑round, but the steep arête between Teermoyle and Coomreagh can be challenging in wet conditions; the Irish Times describes it as requiring “special care”. Winter snow may linger on higher cols, so a sturdy pair of trekking boots and crampons (if icy) are advisable for the more ambitious sections.
Nearby Amenities
Glenbeigh offers a range of B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels. Rossbeigh Beach, just a short drive away, provides a sandy stretch for a post‑hike dip or a picnic. The village also hosts a modest selection of pubs and eateries where you can sample fresh Kerry trout.
Adventure Sports
Coomasaharn features in the Big Five Challenge, a five‑day adventure that includes night paddle‑boarding on the lake. Participants must collect a passport from the Reeks District visitor centre in Killorglin and complete the paddle‑board leg under a moonlit sky.
Please verify opening hours before planning your visit.