The Lough, County Cork Travel Guide

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Escape to Cork's tranquil Lough: a wildlife sanctuary in the city, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. Discover a serene urban oasis.

The Lough, a serene freshwater lake in Cork City, is a designated wildlife sanctuary and one of Ireland's oldest protected areas, dating back to 1881. This urban oasis provides a habitat for diverse bird species, including swans, ducks, and migratory birds, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers and a popular spot for leisurely walks.

A brief summary to The Lough

Cork Lough, Cork, The Lough, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Lough.

Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and stunning sunrise views.
Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife, especially the diverse bird species around the lake.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail around the lake can be uneven in parts.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly, especially near the water.
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.

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Explore The Lough on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Lough, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Cork city center (e.g., Patrick Street), head south towards Grand Parade, then turn left onto Oliver Plunkett Street. Continue straight until you reach Washington Street, then turn right. Follow Washington Street as it turns into The Lough Road. Continue walking straight, and you will reach The Lough area. The walk is approximately 1.8 km and takes about 21 minutes.
Public Transport

From Cork city center, walk to the Parnell Place Bus Station. Take Bus Éireann route 214 towards CUH. Stay on the bus until you reach the 'The Lough' stop or Westbourne Terrace. The bus journey takes approximately 7 minutes and departs every 30 minutes. A single fare costs between €3 - €5.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Cork City. A taxi from the city center (e.g., Patrick Street) to The Lough takes approximately 3 minutes. The estimated fare is between €8 - €10. Keep in mind that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Discover more about The Lough

The Lough, also known as Cork Lough, is a captivating freshwater lake nestled in the southwestern part of Cork City. This tranquil location has been a designated wildlife sanctuary since 1881, making it one of Ireland's oldest protected areas. The name 'Lough' itself comes from the Irish word for 'lake'.With an average depth of just one meter and a total area of 4 hectares, The Lough provides a unique habitat for a variety of wildlife. The lake's large central island, dominated by willow woodland, serves as a refuge, roosting, and breeding area for residential and migratory birds. Visitors can commonly spot various gull species, coots, mute swans, mallards, and moorhens. During the winter months, keep an eye out for little egrets and shovelers.The Lough is also a popular spot for coarse angling, particularly carp fishing. The lake is home to other fish species like eel, tench, perch, and rudd. A 1 km trail loops around the Lough, offering both an inner path close to the water's edge and an outer path following the main footpaths. The Lough Road, which runs alongside the lake, provides benches and colorful lampposts, creating a pleasant environment for visitors. A playground is also available for children.Historically, The Lough was once a marshy area before evolving into the lake we know today. It has long been a focal point for recreation, including ice skating during harsh winters. Today, The Lough continues to be a valuable natural space within Cork City, blending its wildlife sanctuary status with the rhythms of modern suburban life.