Glencar Lough Ireland
A serene lough fringed by hills, featuring Ireland's tallest waterfall and the mystical Devil's Chimney.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For a powerful waterfall
Glencar Lough Ireland
Best Time
For a powerful waterfall
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lough fringed by hills, featuring Ireland's tallest waterfall and the mystical Devil's Chimney.
"A must-visit place with mind-blowing views of the waterfall and beautiful lake scenery."
Free Entry & Facilities
:moneywithwings: Parking and entry to Glencar Waterfall are free! Toilets and picnic areas available.
Best Waterfall Views
:camerawithflash: Hike to the waterfall for the most impressive views. The Devil's Chimney is also a unique sight.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 67 reviews
Type
Lake
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Glencar Waterfall
Near the lake's north shore
Ireland's tallest waterfall, a breathtaking cascade surrounded by lush greenery. A must-see!
Glencar Lough Views
Various viewpoints around the lake
Serene lake vistas reflecting mountains, especially stunning on clear days. Perfect for peaceful contemplation.
The Devil's Chimney
Near the Leitrim border
A unique waterfall that can blow upwards, signaling incoming bad weather. A local legend!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Waterfall Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Facilities
:moneywithwings: Parking and entry to Glencar Waterfall are free! Toilets and picnic areas available.
Best Waterfall Views
:camerawithflash: Hike to the waterfall for the most impressive views. The Devil's Chimney is also a unique sight.
Layer Up!
☁️ Weather changes fast! Bring waterproofs and layers for comfort in this beautiful but unpredictable landscape.
Fisherman's Viewpoint
:fishing_pole: Prefer the viewpoint used by fishermen for slightly better lake views than the waterfall area.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Facilities
:moneywithwings: Parking and entry to Glencar Waterfall are free! Toilets and picnic areas available.
Best Waterfall Views
:camerawithflash: Hike to the waterfall for the most impressive views. The Devil's Chimney is also a unique sight.
Layer Up!
☁️ Weather changes fast! Bring waterproofs and layers for comfort in this beautiful but unpredictable landscape.
Fisherman's Viewpoint
:fishing_pole: Prefer the viewpoint used by fishermen for slightly better lake views than the waterfall area.
Rainbow Spotting
🌈 Keep an eye out for incredible rainbows after rain – they're a common and magical sight here! 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Glencar Lough for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the impressive Glencar Waterfall. The free access, convenient facilities, and breathtaking scenery make it a highly recommended stop, especially for those seeking peaceful landscapes and photo opportunities.
"Must visit place. There is a waterfall near the lake in the name of Glencar waterfall which will give you a mind blowing view. The parking and entrence is free here. You will get toilet facility and and picnic area as well. You will also get fantastic view of the lake as well from the parking lot as well."
Muhsin Ali
"Beautiful lake we visit number of times every year. Something for everyone, Glencar waterfall, Devils chimney, number of hiking trails, fishing and boating and breathtaking scenery."
Stan Vrabec
"Beautiful 😍 on a clear day the lake reflects the mountain and the view is stunning 🗻 there are 2 viewing points by the lake. I prefer the one the the fishermen use as I think the view is a little bit better. The second is by the waterfall and teahouse, it has a small visitors centre and public toilets. Parking and entry to the waterfall are free. I think campers can park there overnight without issue too."
Niamh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glencar Lough is easily accessible by car from Sligo town. Take the R286 north, which leads you directly to the lake and the waterfall area. The drive itself offers scenic views.
Public transport options are limited. While buses may go to nearby areas, a car is the most convenient way to reach Glencar Lough and explore its surroundings.
Driving to the designated parking areas near the waterfall and lake is recommended. From there, you can walk to the viewpoints and the waterfall base.
Yes, cycling is a great option for the adventurous. The roads around Glencar Lough are scenic, but be prepared for some hills.
The parking area near the waterfall offers good views without extensive walking. However, some trails may be challenging for those with severe mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Glencar Lough and the Glencar Waterfall is completely free. You can enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees.
Glencar Lough is a natural landscape and is accessible at all times. The visitor facilities, like toilets, will have more standard operating hours.
There is a small visitor center near the waterfall and teahouse, offering public toilets and information.
It appears campers may be able to park overnight without issue, though it's advisable to confirm locally if planning an extended stay.
Parking at the main viewpoints and near the waterfall is free of charge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the Glencar Waterfall, enjoy the lake views, hike trails, fish (check regulations), and spot local wildlife like ducks and swans. +1
The walk to the base of the Glencar Waterfall is generally short and manageable. Some longer hiking trails are also available in the area.
The lough is home to salmon, ducks, and swans. Keep an eye out for other local birdlife as well.
Yes, there are picnic areas available, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch amidst nature.
The Devil's Chimney is a waterfall near the Leitrim border that can blow upwards, traditionally seen as a sign of approaching bad weather.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The viewpoints by the lake, especially the one favored by fishermen, offer stunning reflections. The base of Glencar Waterfall and the Devil's Chimney are also prime photo locations.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light. After rain, you might capture dramatic skies and even rainbows, which are spectacular here.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lough and waterfall. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflections on the water.
Drone footage is popular here, capturing the scale of the lough and waterfall. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Look for the rare upward-blowing 'Devil's Chimney' waterfall or the vibrant rainbows that frequently appear after showers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit