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The Long Point: Loughrea's Lakeside Gem

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Discover The Long Point in Loughrea: a Blue Flag beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, picnics, and lakeside relaxation in County Galway.

The Long Point, located on the shores of Loughrea Lake in County Galway, is a popular Blue Flag beach and amenity area. It offers clear waters, a sandy beach, and well-maintained facilities, making it a favorite spot for swimming, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.

A brief summary to The Long Point

  • Lake Rd, Loughrea, Knockanima, Co. Galway, IE
  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-10 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Visit during the summer months to take full advantage of the lifeguard services and swimming facilities.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables overlooking the lake.
  • Take a walk along the looped sensory walk to fully experience the natural beauty of the area.
  • Note that the lake is a popular fishing spot for trout, perch and pike.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in Loughrea town, The Long Point is accessible on foot. Head east on Main Street, then turn left onto Lake Road. Continue for approximately 2 km (1.2 miles). The walk is scenic and takes about 30-35 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Galway City, take a Bus Éireann service to Loughrea. The journey takes about 45 minutes. From Loughrea town, you can walk (approximately 25 minutes) or take a local taxi to Lake Road in Knockanima. A taxi should cost around €10-€15. A single bus fare from Galway to Loughrea ranges from €6-€13.

  • Car

    If driving from Galway City, take the N6 road towards Loughrea. Continue for about 30 km (18 miles) until you reach the Loughrea exit. Follow the signs for Loughrea, then head towards Lake Road in Knockanima. Free parking is available near The Long Point. Note that recent projects have reconfigured the parking layout.

Discover more about The Long Point

The Long Point is a scenic and well-maintained lakeside amenity located on Loughrea Lake in County Galway. This popular destination boasts a Blue Flag beach, indicating high water quality and environmental standards. The lake itself is a large limestone lake formed during the Ice Age, adding to the area's natural beauty and historical significance.Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at The Long Point, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The facilities are well-maintained and include ample parking, seating, picnic tables, changing rooms, and even a cold shower. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty, ensuring a safe swimming environment for all.The area is also of ecological importance, serving as a habitat for various waterfowl. The lake contains several islands, believed to be ancient crannogs (fortified dwellings), adding archaeological value to the site. Recent enhancement projects have focused on improving accessibility, increasing parking capacity, and adding amenities such as a circular viewing deck and improved walkways. Whether you're looking for a refreshing swim, a relaxing picnic, or a scenic walk, The Long Point offers a delightful escape into nature.
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