Lough Dan - A Fantastic Walk Close To Dublin

Lough Dan is a must-see!

Lough Dan (Gaelic for Lake Dan) is a stunningly beautiful lake that's not too far from Dublin. Which means if you're looking for mountains, lakes, and some history not too far from Dublin then this is the perfect place to go. Not to mention, it just so happens to be one of the locations where they shot part of the History Channels highly successful TV show 'Vikings'.

What you need to know

Lough Dan is around 40 minutes from Dublin by car just in the next county south of the capitol, the picturesque Co. Wicklow. Lough Dan is a fairly easy trek for any walker, apart from the short climb back to the car which might get the heart pumping but taken slowly it shouldn't be a problem. This lake is a great addition to any weekend spent in Dublin or Ireland for the whole family.

There is no car park as such but you can park your car on the road outside the entrance at the top of the hill. You will see a large gate with a pedestrian gate to the left which you can enter. The location to enter is in the google map link below.

When you pass through the gates you will see the mountain 'Luggala' in all its glory, which overlooks Lough Tay. Lough Tay is actually part of the private Guinness estate. Some call it the Guinness lake because of its dark colour and sandy beach which is imported sand. The private Guinness estate sits on this land.

Directions once your there

As you walk down you will be able to see farmhouses to the left and right. Keep following the road. You will cross a scenic wooden bridge and a wooden walkers barrier which you will need to scale but its not difficult. There are hills on the right and an open valley on the left. If you're lucky on the day, you might catch a large number of deer grazing on the grass, popping their head up every once in a while to catch a glimpse of the walkers passing by.

There are old brick walls on the right and left side and a few farmers gates that you will either need to climb or walk around. Don't be afraid to do so, just be sure to close the gates if you open them. You will then see a small river on the right as you get close to Lough Dan and an old abandoned house in front of you which is very close to the lake.

Views

On a clear, calm day, Lough Dan does not look like a lake, but more so a beautiful mirror. It truly is stunning. You can sit down on the grassy verge and simply take in the beauty. While your at it, why not dip your feet in the clear water, relax and unwind. Bring a sandwich and a flask and you're all set!

It is the possible to camp on the site. Although, it is very remote in comparison to many other walks you may do. There are flat grassy areas that are perfect for a tent and a few already created fire pits that you could use if you want to spend the night.

How to get back

The return part of the journey is going back the way you came, and its great because you get a totally different perspective from where you came from including a different view of Luggala mountain and possibly a glimpse of the Guinness estate if the weather is good.

So all in all, Lough Dan is a great walk and a great and less travelled adventure as part of you're weekend in Ireland.

Cost: Free

Travel time from Dublin: 40 minutes by car

Walking time: 100 minutes

Google Maps location here

You can find the entrance to the Lough Dan walk here