Overview
Glenade is a glacial lake in north-west County Leitrim that most people stop for on the strength of its setting alone. The lough lies below the steep, enclosing slopes of the Dartry Mountains. Its Irish name, Loch Ghleann Éada, means ‘lake of the glen of jealousy’, and the valley is still known locally as the Jealous Valley. Leitrim Tourism lists a car park and viewing area at the southern end of the lake, reached on the R280 roughly 9 km north-west of Manorhamilton and 12 km south of Kinlough. Use that stop rather than pulling in along the R280. It’s Stop 6 on the Manorhamilton–Glenade Valley scenic looped drive, and honestly it’s a viewpoint rather than a day out: twenty minutes and a camera, then on to the next glen.
History & The Legend of the Dobhar-chú
The valley was carved during the last Ice Age. The lake drains south into the Bonet River, and the wider glen has stayed largely free of intensive development, keeping its quiet, rural character.
The folklore is what most people know it for. Local tradition tells of the Dobhar-chú, an otter-like water hound said to have lived in the lake. The best-known story holds the creature responsible for the death of a local woman, and Leitrim Tourism records a carving associated with the story at Conwell Cemetery, a tangible link to the legend for anyone willing to seek it out.
Wildlife & Conservation
The National Parks and Wildlife Service protects the lake’s habitat, including white-clawed crayfish and slender naiad, an aquatic plant. Stay on established public ground and leave the reeds undisturbed.
What to See & Do
- Photography & Landscape Watching – The lake’s still waters reflect the surrounding fields and mountains. Early morning light often brings a soft mist over the surface, which suits landscape photography. Take your photographs from the car park and viewing area at the southern end.
- Bird-watching – Bring binoculars to scan the reed beds and open water.
- Quiet Contemplation & Sketching – The reed-lined shoreline is a peaceful place to sit and look. Keep to established public ground.
- Exploring Local History – The Conwell Cemetery carving linked to the Dobhar-chú legend is the local-history stop for this valley.
Practical Information
- Access: Turn off the R280 between Manorhamilton and Kinlough and use the car park and viewing area at the southern end of the lake.
- Facilities: Check ahead for facilities before you go, and bring your own water, snacks and sturdy footwear.
- Seasonal Tips: Summer mornings often feature mist and clear reflections. Autumn brings foliage against the lake’s dark water, while winter offers stark, atmospheric skies.
- Conservation Reminder: Stay on established public ground, leave the reeds undisturbed, and do not introduce or spread invasive plant or animal species.
- Contact: For conservation queries, contact Leitrim County Council or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Nearby Stops
Glenade is one of the seven North Leitrim Glens, and it’s best strung together with the others rather than visited alone. Hag’s Leap is a separate stop in Glenade Valley: see the crag from its signed viewing area and leave the cliffs and slopes undisturbed. Glencar Lough and its waterfall, the one W.B. Yeats put in ‘The Stolen Child’, is the standout of the group, and Fowley’s Falls is a quieter alternative. For old stone, Creevelea Abbey is a well-preserved Franciscan friary ruin near Dromahair. Manorhamilton and Kinlough are the practical bases for fuel, food and a bed.
Come to Glenade on a still morning if you can: the lake is at its best mirror-flat under mist, and that’s the shot everyone stops for.