Killaloe, Lough Derg
May 2011
Lough Derg is one of the most attractive lakes in the country, large and with a varied shore line. The swimming spot, about 5 kilometres outside Killaloe, is a lovely place to visit .
This is a well kept area with lots of grass and a number of seats and picnic tables. You can access the water from a small sandy beach , where the water is quite shallow and good for children to play in. For swimmers you need to wade out from here into your depth. Alternatively, you can get in from the slipway to the side where the water is deeper. Whichever way you go, please remember to be careful of hidden rocks.
As well as having a swim there is plenty of room to picnic and a forest area with short walks. Toilets are located nearby
The water here is soft and dark and the views across the lake as you swim are most impressive. Unfortunately, there are signs warning you of algae in the summer months so do be careful.
Blue Flag location.
Directions:
From the M7 take exit 27 and get onto the R494 for Killaloe. From there you take the R463 signposted Tuamgraney. The swimming spot is located about 5kms from Killaloe and you will know it by the good sized car parking area at the roadside on the right hand side.
Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 58
]]>
If you have been to Killaloe recently, how was your swim experience?
I went for a swim here yesterday. I did four laps of the buoys which was about 1.8km in total. Water was peaty which is usual for many Irish lakes, but it was clear and not to cold (though I was in a wetsuit). Good facilities and views. Recommended.