Dabhach an tSnámha: A Natural Swimming Hole
Discover Dabhach an tSnámha, Inishmore's natural rectangular pool connected to the Atlantic, offering a unique and invigorating swimming experience.
Dabhach an tSnámha, also known as the Serpent's Lair or Doughatna, is a unique, naturally formed rectangular pool on Inishmore Island, part of the Aran Islands in County Galway. Connected to the Atlantic Ocean by an underground channel, this intriguing spot offers a distinctive swimming experience amidst a rugged karst landscape.
A brief summary to Dabhach an tSnámha
- Inishmore, Co. Galway, IE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- The pool is not always easily accessible, so wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking over uneven terrain.
- Check tide times before visiting; the pool is best experienced when filled with fresh seawater.
- Be prepared for cold water – even in summer, the Atlantic waters can be quite chilly.
- There are no facilities nearby, so bring your own refreshments and be prepared to take all trash with you.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kilronan, the main village on Inishmore, Dabhach an tSnámha is approximately a 3-4 hour walk. Follow the main road south towards Killeany, then continue west, following signs for Gort na gCapall. Once in Gort na gCapall, ask locals for directions to 'the Worm Hole' or 'Serpent's Lair'. The walk crosses varied terrain, including paved roads and rocky paths. No costs are associated with walking.
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Bicycle
Bicycle is a popular way to get around Inishmore. Rent a bike at Kilronan , near the ferry pier. Cycle south towards Killeany, then west towards Gort na gCapall. From Gort na gCapall, follow local directions to Dabhach an tSnámha. The journey involves some uphill cycling and can take 1-2 hours. Bike rentals typically cost €10-€20 per day.
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Taxi/Mini-Bus
Taxis and mini-buses are available from Kilronan. Negotiate a fare to Dabhach an tSnámha, specifying that you want to go to the 'Worm Hole' near Gort na gCapall. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a one-way trip.
Discover more about Dabhach an tSnámha
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tigh Fitz
1.0 km
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Ard Einne House
1.2 km
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Aran Islands Hotel
2.2 km
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Aran Celtic Tours
2.4 km
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Seacrest B&B
2.4 km
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Thomas Faherty Tours
2.4 km
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Visit Aran Islands
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Man of Aran Fudge
2.4 km
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Aran Islands Information
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Fáilte Bus Tour, Aran Islands.
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Discover Aran Islands
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Aran Tourist Information Centre
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Pier House Guesthouse
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Ard Mhuiris B&B
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Claí Bán Bed & Breakfast
2.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Teampall Bheanáin
0.6 km
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Aran Islands
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Dún Dúchathair (Black Fort)
1.2 km
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Iaráirne
1.3 km
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Kilronan Beach
2.2 km
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Inis Mór (Port)
2.3 km
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Aran Sweater Market
2.3 km
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Cliffs of Aran
2.8 km
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Frenchman's beach
3.1 km
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Dún Eochla
3.7 km
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Synge’s Chair
4.3 km
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Inishmore
4.6 km
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Seal Colony Viewpoint
5.2 km
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Dún Chonchúir
5.4 km
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Teach Synge - Synge's Cottage
5.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Bayview Restaurant
2.4 km
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The Bar
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Tigh Joe Mac
2.4 km
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The Galley Fish & Chips
2.5 km
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Tigh Ned
10.4 km
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Café Úna
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Inis Oírr Hotel- Flaherty's
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An Currach
10.7 km
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Gus O'Connor's Pub
21.4 km
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The Ivy Cottage
21.4 km
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Homestead Cottage
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Anthony's at Doolin Inn
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Glas Restaurant
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STONEWALL WOOD-FIRED PIZZERIA, ORGANIC WINE BAR & COFFEE HOUSE
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Russell's Fishshop
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carraig Donn Aran Islands
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Man of Aran Coffee and Crafts
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Ebike Self Guided Tours Aran Islands
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Aran Islands Cafe
2.4 km
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Aran Islands Knitwear
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Aran Bike Hire
2.4 km
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Dive Academy - Scuba Diving School
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Rainbow Bike Hire
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Spar
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Aran Islands Handcrafts
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Minnie’s Café
4.0 km
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Siopa Ruaidhrí Beag
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Stigutha
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An Púcán Aran Sweaters
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Innismann
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Teach Ósta
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Fitz's Pub
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McGann's Pub
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McDermott's Pub
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Egans Pub
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The Edge
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P Frawley's Bar
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Flanagans Bar
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The Nineteenth Bar
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Kenny's Bar
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The Claremont Bar & Nightclub
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Slatterys bar
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Cullinans Bar
30.8 km
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