Devil's Punch Bowl: Kerry's Mystical Lake
Discover the mystical beauty of the Devil's Punch Bowl, a glacial lake steeped in Irish legend, offering breathtaking views and invigorating hikes.
High in the mountains of County Kerry, near Killarney, lies the enigmatically named Devil's Punch Bowl. This corrie lake, a remnant of the Ice Age, sits on the north side of Mangerton Mountain, approximately 700 meters above sea level. The lake's depth and steep sides give it a dramatic, bowl-like appearance. Local legend says the lake's name comes from a tale of the Devil and the Chief of the O'Donoghue clan. They say the two shared drinks by the lake, argued, and the Devil threw a chunk of the mountain at O'Donoghue, forming Devil's Island in Muckross Lake. Others suggest the name derives from 'Poll an Ifrinn' (Hole of Hell). The Devil's Punch Bowl is the source of the Owengarriff River, which flows down Mangerton Mountain and over Torc Mountain, creating the beautiful Torc Waterfall. The area offers various trails for hikers of all levels, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From the summit, you can see the Lakes of Killarney and the Magillicuddy's Reeks. The vibrant landscape changes with the seasons, offering new experiences throughout the year.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views and surrounding wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning natural scenery.
A brief summary to Devil's Punch Bowl
- Devils Punch Bowl, Ferta, Co. Kerry, IE
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are in Ferta, the closest village to the Devil's Punch Bowl, you can walk to the attraction. Follow the local road signs towards the Devil's Punch Bowl. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and offers scenic views of the countryside.
-
Car
If driving from Killarney, head southwest on the N71 towards Kenmare. Continue for about 30 kilometers until the junction with the N70. Turn left onto the N70 and follow signs for Sneem. After approximately 18 kilometers, turn right onto the R568 towards Ferta. The Devil's Punch Bowl is about 5 kilometers down this road. Look for a small parking area near the site. Parking is free.
-
Public Transport
To reach the Devil's Punch Bowl via public transport, take a bus from Killarney to Kenmare. From Kenmare, you can take a taxi or local shuttle service to Ferta. Confirm the availability of these services in advance. A taxi from Kenmare to the Devil's Punch Bowl will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Taxi fares may vary.
