Dunservick Harbour
July 2016
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Clogga Beach, Arklow
May 2010
Clogga is a good sized beach and well established swimming spot. There is good depth to the water as you enter and it is a bit exposed so you can expect some waves. Also look out for submerged or semi submerged rocks at the far end. The beach itself is a bit stony, but good for walking.
When we were there in May it was dull, windy and the water was cold. Lovely swimming, but we couldn’t understand why no one else was in the water with us ?
Directions
Coming from Dublin Clogga is a few kilometres past Arklow town. It’s best to drive through the town and at the end of the various roundabouts take the N 11 Wexford signpost. After a short distance watch out for a left turn signposted Clogga. Follow this twisty road which will lead you to a good sized car park. Access to the beach is down a long, rough path followed by some steps. It’ s not wheelchair or buggy accessible.
Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 62
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Cleevaun Lough
September 2009
Serious walkers only need apply. Cleevaun Lough is a corrie lake set at the foot of Wiclow’s 849 metres high Mullaghcleevaun Mountain. This one is not for the fainthearted.
The lake can be approached from a few different directions but whichever way you go requires at least a two hour hike. So this is only for experienced and well equipped hikers and, indeed, experienced swimmers.
However, if you get there it’s well worth the effort. Set at the base of impressive Mullaghcleevaun, Cleevaun Lough is surrounded by the mountains of Duff Hill, Gravale and Carrigvore which stretch back to the Sally Gap.
The lake’s waters are dark, clear and refreshing. As always this and any other lake has to be treated carefully as you can’t see the bottom or its submerged rocks. Don’t swim here alone.
This is a lovely spot for a swim, sunbathing and a picnic. If you see anyone else while you are there, count yourself lucky (or unlucky as the case may be).
Directions
Firstly, you need Ordinance Survey Map 56 to find your way across the mountains. From Dublin the best route is to take the R115 Military Road and head for the Sally Gap. From the Gap you stay on the Military Road and after a few kilometres s there is a small parking area, marked on Map 56.
From here you have a good, strong walk across four peaks and you can descend to the lake from Mullaghcleevaun East Top or Mullaghcleevaun itself.
Be warned that there is a steep descent to the lake which needs to be negotiated slowly and carefully.
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Old Head Beach, Fallduff Strand, Louisburgh
September 2009
Old Head is a popular beach located just outside Louisburgh.
The beach is long, narrow and sandy. It’s protected by cliffs, with an attractive old style harbour at one end. The water here is clear and it’s sandy underfoot. This is a good spot for kids as it doesn’t get deep too quickly. As you swim you have lovely views across the water to Croagh Patrick. Indeed, this is a good place to come and refresh yourself after your climb.
The beach itself is well maintained and there is ample car parking and toilets. There’s also a nice campsite nearby and Louisburgh is just a mile away.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
Blue Flag Beach 2012.
Directions
From Westport you take the R335 and drive along this coast road past the impressive slopes of Croagh Patrick. Before you get to Louisburgh you will see a right turn signposted for Old Head, follow this and it will lead you the beach.
Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No. 30
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Barfinnihy Lake
Barfinnihy Lake
July 2009
Barfinnihy Lake is set within one of the most beautiful parts of the country. It’s right in the midst of lakes, mountains and fabulous views. The lake is located at the base of impressive Boughil Mountain. You can access it from Mollys Gap where you can stop and admire the spectacular view.
Barfinnihy appears to be a fisherman’s lake as there were quite a few people fishing from the shore when we were there. We walked around to the far side and had a lovely swim in clear, fresh water.
Like all lakes it needs to be treated carefully and watch out for hidden rocks.
Directions
Coming from Kenmare you take the N 71 which runs to Killarney. At Molly’s Gap you take the R568, sign-posted for Sneem. After a couple of kilometres you will see the lake on your right and space for car parking on the left hand side.
