Glencar Lake, County Leitrim
Where: Steep cliffs drop dramatically to the shores of Glencar Lake, which straddles the border between counties Leitrim and Sligo. The only sound you're likely to hear in this tranquil oasis is the water cascading over nearby waterfalls, the most famous of which was immortalised in words by the great WB Yeats in his mystical poem, The Stolen Child.
What’s nearby: After taking in the peaceful lake, wander over to Glencar Waterfall, found on the hills above. Explore the unique crafts of the area at Leitrim Design House in the town of Carrick-on-Shannon. If you love the water, be sure to enjoy a cruise along the Shannon-Erne Waterway, which starts in the quaint Leitrim Village and winds its way to the town of Belturbet in County Cavan.