Overview
Lough Doon is one of Ireland’s highest lakes, set deep within a steep-sided canyon at the foot of the Conor Pass. The location is remote and atmospheric, with the water acting as a mirror to the rugged peaks of the Brandon Mountains across the valley. It is a spot that feels distinctly off the main tourist trail, offering a quiet escape into the high hills of north Kerry.
Access to the lake is via the Conor Pass road (R560). At the base of the canyon, a modest car park accommodates roughly eight vehicles. From there, a well-marked footpath climbs 70 metres to the water’s edge. The path is unpaved but stable, making the approach manageable for most walkers. Because heavy goods vehicles are prohibited on the Conor Pass, access is restricted to cars and vans, which helps preserve the tranquility of the site.
Doon Fort
The defining feature of Lough Doon is Doon Fort, a substantial drystone enclosure situated on a small island in the centre of the lake. Classified as a Western Stone Fort, the structure is characterised by thick, imposing walls that still rise to a height of 15 feet. Archaeological evidence suggests the fort served as a residence for the O’Boyle chieftains, with some links pointing to the Breslin clan as early as the 5th century. While the exact date of construction remains a subject of debate, the site spans from the late Iron Age into the early medieval period.
The fort has undergone significant attention over the decades. In 1954, Bord Fáilte funded a restoration programme to stabilise the structure and halt its decay. More recently, the Ardara GAP Heritage and History Group has taken stewardship of the monument under the Heritage Council’s Adopt a Monument scheme. Their work involves vegetation control, structural surveys, and the development of a conservation plan in partnership with the National Monuments Service.
Visitors should note that the fort is a designated National Monument and public access is currently suspended while conservation work continues. The island remains a striking visual anchor for the lake, even if the walls are off-limits.
Walking and Views
Lough Doon serves as a gateway for hikers looking to explore the surrounding high ground. The most notable route is the “Lough Doon to Gob an Iolair” trail, which begins directly at the lake’s edge.
- Route: Point-to-point hike from Lough Doon to the summit of Gob an Iolair.
- Distance: 15.6 km.
- Elevation Gain: 767 m.
- Estimated Time: Approximately 4 hours 23 minutes.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with a steady ascent over varied terrain.
The trail offers expanding vistas as you climb, rewarding walkers with further views of the Brandon range and the surrounding valleys. The lake itself is best enjoyed from the shoreline, where the reflection of the mountains is particularly clear in the stillness of early morning.
Practical Information
Getting There Follow the Conor Pass road (R560) and look for signs directing you to Lough Doon. The car park is located at the base of the canyon. Due to the HGV ban on the pass, larger vehicles cannot reach the site and should park in nearby towns.
Parking A level parking area holds approximately eight cars. Parking is free of charge. Arriving early is advisable, especially on weekends, as space is limited.
Access Notes The footpath from the car park to the lake is accessible year-round. Conditions can be muddy or slippery after heavy rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Fort Access Doon Fort is currently closed to the public. In previous years, small boats were sometimes available for rent at the nearby McHugh Farm, but this service is not guaranteed. Always check the latest status before planning a visit.
Contact For enquiries regarding the fort, parking, or local heritage updates, contact Kate Kennelly at the Kerry Arts Office:
- Email: arts@kerrycoco.ie
- Phone: +353 (0)66 718 3541
Map A location map is available here.
Before heading out, verify the current access status of Doon Fort on the Screen Kerry website, as conservation work can affect site availability without prior notice.