Whether you’re training for Gaelforce Great Swim Trilogy or just looking to wash away the week with a salty dip, Ireland’s coastline and inland lakes offer some of the most spectacular swimming on the planet.
Here is your ultimate guide to the best local swimming spots and scenic routes to take you there.
1. Spanish Point Beach, Co. Clare
Named after the ill-fated ships of the Spanish Armada, this is a soul-stirring spot on the Wild Atlantic Way.
- The vibe: wild, rugged, and energetic.
- The route: take the coastal road from Lahinch for stunning cliff views before dropping down into the bay.
- Best for: first-time wild swimmers, families, sunset chasers.
- Know before you go: No lifeguard service, always check conditions.
- Gaelforce pro tip: best at mid-to-high tide for a proper swell. It’s a great spot to practice your "sighting" in moving water, perfect prep for Gaelforce Great Fjord Swim.
2. Lough Ramor, Co. Cavan
A freshwater haven that feels worlds away from the hustle of the city.
- The vibe: peaceful and glassy.
- The route: easily accessible via the N3, making it the perfect pitstop if you’re heading North or West.
- Best for: families, leisurely wild swimmers, nature lovers.
- Know before you go: Check local water quality advisories before visiting.
- Why we love it: the shoreline near Virginia offers easy entry points. It’s an ideal training ground for Gaelforce Great Lake Swim leg of our trilogy.
3. Lough Lene, Co. Westmeath
Often cited as one of the cleanest lakes in Ireland, Lough Lene is a Blue Flag beauty.
- The vibe: crystal clear and serene.
- The route: wind through the rolling hills of Westmeath toward Collinstown. The drive is as calming as the swim.
- Best for: wild swimmers, families, early risers.
- Know before you go: minimal facilities, bring everything you need. Worth every bit of the effort.
- Why we love it: the visibility here is unparalleled. If you’re a "skins" swimmer, the water quality here is a dream for the skin.
4. Velvet Strand, Portmarnock
Don’t let the proximity to Dublin fool you, once you’re in the water, it feels vast and infinite.
- The vibe: classic, expansive, and reliable.
- The route: a short hop from the city, but we recommend the coastal drive through Howth first to build the anticipation.
- Best for: city dwellers, families, long beach walks.
- Know before you go: lifeguard service runs seasonally. Arrive early on sunny weekends, the car park fills fast.
- Why we love it: with 5km of sandy shoreline, it’s the best place on the East Coast to practice long-distance endurance sets.
5. Keem Bay, Achill Island
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, Keem is the "Grand Finale" of Irish swimming spots.
- The vibe: breathtaking. Literally.
- The route: the drive over the Minaun Heights and down the winding cliff road to Keem is, quite frankly, world-class.
- Best for: adventurers, photographers, confident swimmers, nature watchers.
- Know before you go: Narrow steep road, drive carefully. Lifeguard in summer. Arrive early in peak season.
- Gaelforce pro tip: Keep an eye out for basking sharks in the summer months, they’re gentle giants and a magical sight from the water!
As you head out to explore these hidden gems, remember to always respect the water: check the tides, bring a tow-float, and never swim alone. The Atlantic and our inland lakes are generous, but they are powerful.
So, pack the dry robe, prep the thermos, and take the scenic route. We’ll see you in the water, and hopefully on the start line for our next Great Swim!
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