Overview
Coon Beach is a quiet, secluded sandy and pebbly shoreline situated on the north-western shore of Lough Dan in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. Unlike the coastal beaches of Wicklow, Coon Beach is a freshwater lakeside beach surrounded by dramatic glacial mountain slopes, notably Luggala (Fancy Mountain) to the north and Knocknacloghoge to the east. With no commercial facilities, roads, or tourist infrastructure, the beach remains a peaceful sanctuary for hikers, wild swimmers, and anyone seeking an unspoiled wilderness experience.
What to See & Do
Hiking Trails & Access
Coon Beach cannot be reached by car. It is accessible only on foot via scenic mountain trails, making the journey part of the experience.
- From the Old Military Road: The most popular route starts from the Kanturk/Lough Dan car park on the Old Military Road (near the Inchavore River). This is a roughly 5 km walk (approx. 1.5 hours one-way) along a historic track. Hikers follow the path towards the lake, using Logan’s Way to reach the shoreline.
- From Roundwood: An alternative approach can be taken from near Roundwood (close to Lough Dan House), walking along the eastern side of the lake, though parts of this route cross private land.
Wild Swimming & Recreation
The sandy shoreline and clear, dark waters of Lough Dan make Coon Beach a favoured spot for wild swimming. However, swimmers should exercise caution: the water is fresh and remains cold throughout the year, and there is no lifeguard supervision. The lake bed can drop off suddenly, so staying close to the shore is recommended.
Wildlife & Nature
The surrounding oak woodlands, heather-clad slopes, and quiet waters are home to a variety of wildlife. You may spot sika deer grazing on the hillsides, feral goats on the rocky slopes, and birds of prey like peregrine falcons soaring above. Along the shoreline, herons, sandpipers, and ducks are common sights.
Access & Facilities
- Parking: There is no parking at the beach itself. The nearest parking is at the Kanturk/Lough Dan parking area on the Old Military Road, or at Ballinastoe and Roundwood. Spaces are limited, so arriving early is recommended.
- Facilities: There are no toilets, shops, bins, or drinking water at Coon Beach. Visitors must pack out all waste and follow the Leave No Trace principles to protect this sensitive environment.
- Access Status: Much of the surrounding land, including the Luggala Estate, is privately owned. While public access to the main trails and lakeshore is permitted, visitors must respect the privacy of local landowners, stay on established paths, and avoid climbing fences.
- Dogs: Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead to protect local livestock and ground-nesting wildlife in the surrounding mountains.
Nearby Attractions
- Lough Dan – The scenic ribbon lake itself, excellent for longer loop walks and canoeing.
- Glendalough – The famous historic monastic settlement and valley, located a short drive south.
- Luggala – The mountain and estate, also known as the Fancy Mountain, offering dramatic views over Lough Tay.
Check weather conditions and trail maps before setting off, as mountain conditions in Wicklow can change rapidly.