LOUGH TAY

LOUGH

TAY

POCKET IRELAND › Place Guides › Lough Tay

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Nestled within the Wicklow Mountains, Lough Tay is a spectacle of dramatic contrasts. Often referred to as "The Guinness Lake," it sits in a deep valley between the imposing peaks of Djouce and Luggala. The atmosphere is wild and moody; shifting clouds often skim the mountaintops, casting rapid shadows over the valley floor.

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Unique Features

The lake’s most striking feature - and the source of its famous nickname - is its uncanny resemblance to a pint of stout. The water, stained dark by the peat of the surrounding boglands, meets a dazzlingly white sandy beach on its northern shore. This sand was imported by the Guinness family, whose ancestral Luggala Estate encompasses the lake, completing the visual illusion of a giant pint topped with creamy foam.

Culturally, the landscape is as dramatic as its geology. The sheer granite cliffs of Luggala Mountain that loom over the water have served as a backdrop for numerous films, most notably serving as the setting for the village of Kattegat in the hit TV series Vikings. The view from above offers a cinematic sweep that perfectly captures the rugged romance of the Irish wilderness.

Best Viewpoint

Since the lake itself is on private property, you cannot walk along the shoreline. The best way to experience it is from above. Head to the Military Road (R759); there are designated viewing points near the junction with the Wicklow Way that offers the classic, high-angle photo opportunity. N.B. This area is an exposed mountain pass. Even on sunny days, the wind can be fierce and the temperature is significantly cooler than at sea level. Bring layers!

The J.B. Malone Hike

For a more immersive experience, park at the J.B. Malone car park and take the short, steep hike up the boardwalk toward Djouce Mountain. The elevation gain provides a superior panoramic angle of the lake and the winding valley beyond.

Timing

The small lay-bys for parking fill up quickly on weekends. Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to secure a spot and enjoy the view in solitude.