10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Ireland

You’ll never find a country as naturally diverse and breathtakingly beautiful as Ireland. Aptly nicknamed the ‘emerald isle’, its glorious landscapes and lush sceneries are ideal for outdoor adventurers and a lovely escape from the city hustle.

One of the best things you could ever find while on a hike up a mountain or through forests are charming waterfalls, and there’s a lot in Ireland.

These spectacular water cascades easily make a long, strenuous hike even more worthwhile. When in Ireland, make it a point to see a few.

From dramatic and remote waterfalls tucked in the mountains to those hidden in forests near busy highways, here are ten of the best waterfalls in Ireland.

10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Ireland

1. Torc Waterfall – Killarney, Kerry

Located in the massive Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall is among the top attractions in Killarney and for anyone doing the Ring of Kerry tour.

This waterfall is about 70 to 80 meters high, found at the base of the lush Torc Mountain.

From the car park, it only takes several minutes of walking before you reach the falls. It is surrounded by scenic woodland and one of the prettiest sights in this part of Ireland.

For a better view, climb up about a hundred steps on the side of the falls. Everything looks even more magical from there.

The place gets busy during the summer months so plan your trip ahead.  Set out early to really enjoy this famous Ireland attraction. 

 

2. Assaranca Waterfall – Ardara, Donegal

 

 

 

 

 

 

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If you’re headed to the quaint fishing town of Killybegs in County Donegal, you won’t miss this beautiful surprise just off the side of the road.

The picturesque Assaranca waterfall is found on your way to the stunning Maghera caves. Stop and admire the winding cascades and take a moment to just enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Seeing this waterfall won’t even cost you hours of hiking so stop, rest for a while and take lots of photos! 

3. Aasleagh Falls, County Mayo

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The easily accessible Aasleagh Falls is situated along the River Erriff in County Mayo, very close to the border with County Galway.

From the parking spots, it only requires a short walking distance to reach this stunning piece of paradise.

Aasleagh Falls is quite a sight — sweeping cascades that flow abundantly over rocks and into a rolling stream. The place is also known for salmon fishing so you might want to try that as well if you have more time.

Since the Aasleagh Falls is close to the borders of Galway and Mayo, there are plenty of equally cool places you can visit nearby.

Some of these are the Killary Fjord, Connemara National Park, and Kylemore Abbey. 

4. Glencar Waterfall — Co. Leitrim

Located in County Leitrim, the 50-foot tall Glencar Waterfall is a must-see.

Regarded as among the prettiest waterfalls in Ireland, it falls through the Dartry Mountains then flows into Glencar Lough.

Gorgeous and romantic, the waterfall is said to have inspired the W.B. Yeats poem called “The Stolen Child,”.

It is widely believed that how Glencar looks like after rain as water gushes down the mountainside, was in the lines:

Where the wandering water gushes

From the hills above Glen-Car…

Set put early and spend at least half a day here and simply take in the sight of this waterfall.

Pack a picnic brunch or lunch and hang out at the picnic area that offers great views of the Glencar waterfall. There’s also a playground in the area which makes it a family-friendly place to visit. 

5. Gleninchaquin Falls – Kenmare, Kerry

 

 

 

 

 

 

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You may not have heard of Gleninchaquin Waterfalls, but if you’re doing the Ring of Kerry tour, this should be part of your itinerary.

At 459ft tall, it is among the highest waterfalls in Ireland. You’d have to view it at a certain distance to fully appreciate its unique beauty, and it’s totally worth it.

The route to Gleninchaquin takes you through lush meadows surrounded by mountains from afar, an idyllic sight that’s perfect for an afternoon walk.

Once you see the cascades, pick a spot for a picnic or simply to hang out and enjoy the scenery. The area has amenities like a car park, restrooms and even a tea room for your convenience.

6. Glenevin Waterfall – Clonmany, Donegal

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The short walk to Glenevin Waterfall in County Donegal’s Inishowen is one of the prettiest sights ever. The wooded valleys with a stream winding through it invite you to stop every once in a while to take it all in.

Once you reach the cascades, rest and enjoy. Rising at, or falling from a 30 feet drop — this waterfall is one of the most spectacular attractions in Inishowen.

If you’re up for an adventure, the waterfall is also a good starting point for a more challenging hike to Raghtin More.

There are a car park and restrooms in the area as well as a tea house. There are no entrance fees but there’s a donation box to help provide for the upkeep and repairs.

The surrounding parts and the walking trails have been damaged due to flooding so that’s something to consider when you go visit Glenevin. 

7. Glenoe Waterfall, — Co. Antrim (Northern Ireland)

A beautiful addition to the must-see waterfalls in Ireland is found in Glenoe Village in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Majestic and fairytale-like, Glenoe Falls is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the main street of the village, which is situated at a scenic glen. This glen is where you’ll find the 40-feet high waterfall.

Walk to the footbridge and watch as the water cascades through lush vegetation. Listen as the waterfalls and flows into a brook, the sound of it is quite relaxing.

If you’re staying in Belfast, it’s just a short drive from there. Just head up north, Glenoe Falls is just a few miles past Carrickfergus Castle. 

8. Kilfane Waterfall and Glen – Thomastown, Kilkenny

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Listed as an Irish Heritage garden, the remote beauty that is Kilfane Waterfall and Glen is a must-see if ever you’d like to wander off the beaten path.

The place is not as well-known as the others in this list, but this historical paradise entices with its stunning surroundings.

To get here, wear comfortable hiking shoes and get ready for a storybook-like adventure. You’d trek through lush forests, walk on small bridges under tall trees, down to the valley that leads to the waterfall.

Here, you’ll find an 18th-century cottage. Take in the glorious sight that has delighted visitors for centuries. This off-the-beaten-path adventure is definitely worth it. 

9. The Devils Chimney Waterfall – Leitrim/Sligo border

A unique waterfall in Ireland that you must see if only to find out what the name was all about, is located by the Leitrim and Sligo border.

If you’re already in Glencar Waterfall, just head to the west and you won’t be too far from The Devils Chimney Waterfall.

Also called the ‘Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird’ (the stream against the height), the waterfall is reached by a moderately challenging hike that takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on your fitness level.

The views on the way become more and more beautiful as you get closer to the waterfall itself.

The Devil’s Chimney towers at 492 feet and got its name from a strange occurrence that’s caused by the weather in the area.

When the wind blows from the south, the waterfall is blown back upwards, and over the same cliff where the water drops. It’s strange and beautiful, a sight you shouldn’t miss when you’re in the area. 

10. Tourmakeady Waterfall — County Mayo, Ireland

Nestled in the scenic Tourmakeady Forest Park Walk, this waterfall is another unmissable sight in Co. Mayo

Accessed through a trail that only takes a couple of miles to navigate, the majestic Tourmakeaday is the reward waiting after a short trek through woodlands.

It is set at the highest point in the trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. This romantic setting is part of the Glensaul River and considered one of the best waterfalls in Ireland to visit.

Legend has it that this is where a key figure in the 1916 Easter Rising, Èamon de Valera, courted his wife. 

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