Best Outdoor Swimming Spots In Ireland To Dip Your Toe In This Summer

Get your head under, quick!

Everyone loves to relax by the sea on a hot summers day, but beaches can get pretty crowded, and sometimes you just want to make a quick splash. If you want to try out somewhere new this Summer, here are some beautiful outdoor swimming spots.

1)Belderrig Tidal Pool

If you’re new to outdoor swimming, or maybe you’re just not the strongest swimmer that’s okay! Tidal pools will be your best friend this summer. Belderrig Tidal Pool in North Co. Mayo is a beautiful and serene place to get your feet wet. Close to the pier, there is a circular formation of rocks which has created the perfect little natural swimming pool for everyone who wants to relax in the seawater this summer.

2)Peddler’s Lake

If you are up for a bit of hike then get yourself over to Dingle. This gorgeous mountian lake is nestled at the top of a short climb which over looks the equally impressive Conor’s Pass. The fresh water is cool, refreshing and defintly worth the trip. The area is a bit rocky so be careful when your climbing in out of the water.

3)Valentia Rock Pools

If you want to take a bit of adventure take a road trip to Valentia Island and find this beautiful swimming spot.

Just off the sides of the cliffs on the north side Valentia Island there is a naturally formed rock pool that is big enough to swim in, on the very However it is a bit of a challenge locate it, but it’s definitely worth the trek.

You will need to follow the outer road of the island until you reach a signpost for St Brendan’s Well on the right. Follow the track all the way down to O’Sheas pub, unfortunately the pub is no longer open. You can park here and walking the rest of the way. When you get to the well there is a gateway off to the right, head up that way and follow the wall to the left down towards the sea. Keep an eye out  for y#the rock pool because it’s 500m away on the right. This sounds pretty complicated but it’s definitely worth it! We recommend taking a picnic and making use of the natural seating arena, with built in view of passing whales.

4)Coolalingo Falls

Glenmalure Valley, Co. Wicklow has some amazing hikes suitable for all ability levels. This beautiful water fall is the perfect place to cool down afterwards, or just chill out for the day. The spot is only a twenty minute walk from the Glenmalure Lodge. They may be little bit tricky to find at first but if you head over the bridge and follow the river you’ll get there in no time.

 

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5)Rinnaman Point

Lough Derg is one of the most attractive lakes in the country with a beautiful shore line and a perfect spot for swimming.  Rinnaman Point is about 5 kilometres outside Killaloe Co. Clare. This area is perfect for families with lot’s of grass, seats and picnic tables. You can access the water from a small sandy beach , where the water is quite shallow or  you can get in from the slipway to the side where the water is deeper. Either way, please remember to be careful of hidden rocks.

 

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