Lough Hyne
Ireland's first marine nature reserve, a saltwater lake linked to the sea by a narrow tidal rapids, where night kayak tours reveal bioluminescence.
Lough Hyne is a saltwater lake connected to the Atlantic by a tidal rapids called The Rapids. In 1981 it became Ireland's first marine nature reserve, and its underwater biodiversity is exceptionally rich. The most popular experience is the summer night kayak tour, when paddle strokes stir up blue-green bioluminescence in the water. A roughly 40-minute walk up Knockomagh Wood, on the lakeshore, leads to the summit, with views over the whole lake and coastline. It lies about 5 km from Skibbereen. Admission is free, but kayaks must be booked in advance.
Opening hours
Open all day (night paddling by seasonal reservation)
Nearby sights
- Skibbereen Heritage Centre
- Baltimore & The Beacon
- Sherkin Island
- Castletownshend
- Glandore
- Cape Clear Island
- Drombeg Stone Circle
- Bantry House & Garden