Glanmore Lake

Overview

Glanmore Lake lies deep in the valley of the Beara Peninsula, County Kerry, roughly 12 km southwest of Kenmare. Stretching approximately 2 km north–south and 0.5 km east–west, the lake is framed by the rugged slopes of the Caha Mountains and a patchwork of traditional dry-stone walls. It drains via the Croansaght River, which eventually feeds into Kenmare Bay. The area remains largely unspoiled, offering a quiet retreat for those seeking mountain scenery, clear waters, and a break from busier tourist routes.

History & The Crannog Island

At the centre of the lake sits a small, tree-dotted island that holds traces of early Irish history. The stone remains visible on the island point to a former hermitage, likely dating to the early medieval period. Often described as a crannog – a man-made lake dwelling – the structure would have provided a secure, isolated retreat for monks or local chieftains. Today, the overgrown stones sit quietly among the trees, accessible to visitors who paddle out in a small boat or cross a low wooden bridge that appears when water levels drop.

What to See & Do

Fishing

Glanmore Lake is well-regarded among anglers for its healthy population of Atlantic salmon and sea trout. The deep, clear waters also support pike and gudgeon. Fishing is permitted from the shoreline, and local guides operate in the area, offering boat hire and daily trips for those who want to reach deeper sections. The lake’s still surface often breaks with the occasional leap of a trout chasing insects, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

Wild Swimming

For those comfortable with open-water conditions, Glanmore offers a refreshing freshwater swim. The lake is shaded by surrounding woodland and dotted with small rock islands, some of which support trees growing out of surprisingly thin soil. On calm days, the water acts like a mirror, reflecting the surrounding peaks and the sky above. The temperature remains brisk year-round, so a wetsuit or swim shirt is recommended. There are no marked swimming zones, safety rails, or lifeguards, making it best suited for experienced wild swimmers who are comfortable navigating natural shorelines.

Walking & Cycling

A quiet side road off the R574 leads to a forest-fringed track that loops around part of the lake. The route is popular with walkers and cyclists, offering gentle gradients and close-up views of the water and surrounding moorland. For detailed maps and route advice, visitors can stop at the nearby Pedals & Boots Café, which provides information on local trails that connect to the longer-distance Beara Way. The surrounding valley is lined with ancient dry-stone walls, a testament to generations of agricultural use in this remote part of the peninsula.

Scenic Views & Photography

The best vantage point for Glanmore Lake is from the Healy Pass (R574), which climbs to 334 m above sea level. From the road, the lake unfolds as a shimmering ribbon set against the backdrop of Lackabane Mountain and the wider Caha range. The pass is one of the most photographed stretches on the Beara Peninsula, particularly during sunrise or on clear autumn days when the surrounding heather and bracken turn gold.

Practical Information

Access to Glanmore Lake is free and available year-round. The site is unstaffed, with no ticket office, toilets, or refreshment facilities on site. Visitors should bring their own water, snacks, and appropriate gear for swimming or fishing.

To reach the lake, drive from Kenmare along the R571 for approximately 24 km to the village of Lauragh. At Lauragh, turn onto the R574 toward Healy Pass. Follow the road past signs for local restaurants, then look for a quiet turn-off on the right that leads down to the lakeshore. Roadside parking is available near the track entrance. Mobile phone signal can be patchy in the valley, so downloading offline maps before your trip is advisable.