Lough Gill

Nestled in the heart of Yeats Country, the picturesque Lough Gill is a serene freshwater lake in the northwest of Ireland. This idyllic expanse of water is a hidden gem, located in the counties of Sligo and Leitrim, and serves as a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. Spanning over 8 square kilometers, Lough Gill is famed for its scenic beauty and the inspiration it provided to the Nobel laureate William Butler Yeats, who mentioned the lake in several of his poems.

Lough Gill's crystal-clear waters are encircled by rolling green hills and a patchwork of dense woodlands, offering a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and leisurely boat tours. The lake boasts over twenty small islands, with the most noted being the enchanting Isle of Innisfree, which further rose to prominence through Yeats' poetry.

Visitors to Lough Gill can embark on the Lake Isle of Innisfree Boat Tour, which provides an immersive experience of the lake's natural and literary significance. Anglers also frequent the lake, as it is home to a variety of fish, including pike, perch, and trout, making it an angler's paradise.

For those who prefer to stay on land, a drive around the lake offers stunning views and the opportunity to visit historic sites such as Parke's Castle, a restored 17th-century plantation castle on the shores of Lough Gill. Hiking trails around the lake allow for leisurely strolls or more challenging treks through the surrounding woodlands.