Overview
Lough Doon lies in a dramatic, steep‑sided canyon at the foot of the Conor Pass, making it one of Ireland’s highest lakes. The water mirrors the rugged peaks of the Brandon Mountains across the valley, creating a picture‑perfect scene that feels far removed from the tourist trail. A modest car park at the lake’s base holds roughly eight vehicles; from there visitors face a short, 70‑metre ascent to the water’s edge. Heavy goods vehicles are barred from the Conor Pass, so access is limited to vans and cars.
History & Background
The lake’s most intriguing feature is Doon Fort, a large drystone enclosure perched on a tiny island in the centre of the lough. The fort is classified as a Western Stone Fort – characterised by thick, high stone walls – and is thought to have been the residence of the O’Boyle chieftains. Its exact construction date is uncertain; archaeological opinion places it anywhere from the late Iron Age to the early medieval period, with links to the Breslin clan as early as the 5th century.
In 1954 the Bord Fáilte funded a restoration programme to halt the fort’s decay. Decades later, the Ardara GAP Heritage and History Group, working under the Heritage Council’s Adopt a Monument scheme, has taken stewardship of the site. Their work includes vegetation control, structural surveys, and the preparation of a conservation plan in partnership with the National Monuments Service. Although the fort is a designated National Monument, public access is currently suspended pending further work.
What to See & Do
- Lake Vista – From the shoreline you can soak in sweeping views of the Brandon range, especially striking at sunrise when the peaks catch the first light.
- Doon Fort Island – While the fort itself remains closed to visitors, the island provides a compelling photographic subject. The dry‑stone walls, still rising up to 15 ft, hint at the power of early Irish chieftains.
- Hiking – The popular “Lough Doon to Gob an Iolair” trail begins at the lake’s edge. It covers 15.6 km, gains 767 m in elevation, and typically takes just over four hours. The route traverses varied terrain, offering further vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Nearby Attractions – The Conor Pass road, a short drive away, provides additional high‑altitude scenery. For broader exploration, the nearby Lough Doon Bridge and the Panorama at Lisnamovaun lie within a kilometre radius.
Practical Information
Getting there – The lake is reachable via the Conor Pass road (R560). Follow signs for Lough Doon; the car park sits at the base of the canyon. Because HGVs are prohibited, larger vehicles should seek alternative parking in nearby towns.
Parking – Space for roughly eight cars is available on a level surface adjacent to the trailhead. No fee is charged for parking.
Access to the lake – From the car park, a well‑marked footpath climbs 70 m to the lake. The path is unpaved but stable, suitable for most walkers.
Doon Fort access – The fort sits on private land and is currently closed to the public. In past summers, the adjacent McHugh Farm offered small boats for rent, allowing visitors to reach the island. For the latest status, check the official Screen Kerry page or contact the Kerry Arts Officer.
Trail details – The Lough Doon‑to‑Gob an Iolair hike is a point‑to‑point route. Below is a quick reference:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.6 km |
| Estimated time | ~4 hrs 23 min |
| Elevation gain | 767 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate – steady ascent |
| Starting point | Lough Doon car park |
| End point | Gob an Iolair summit |
Contact – For enquiries about the fort, parking, or local events, reach Kate Kennelly at arts@kerrycoco.ie or call +353 (0)66 718 3541.
Map – A Google Maps location is available here.
Seasonal notes – The lake and surrounding trails are accessible year‑round. The fort’s access status may change with conservation work, so checking the latest information on the Screen Kerry website before planning a visit is advisable.