Lough Owel
County Westmeath’s quality landscape and rich natural heritage includes many scenic lakes. Lough Owel is located 4km from Mullingar and is accessible by road, cycling or walking from the town by way of the N4 or the Royal Canal Greenway. The Royal Canal Greenway has a 4km spur that runs from Mullingar to Lough Owel, following the Lough Owel Feeder allowing visitors to safely walk or cycle to the lake.
The
Mullingar sailing club is situated at Lough Owel and is popular with both the locals and visitors. The facilities at the sailing club include clubhouse, hard standing and launching slipway and there are a number of junior and adult training programmes available throughout the year.
Lough Owel is one of the best examples of a large, spring-fed calcareous lake in the country and is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and is also a Special Protection Area (SPA) for many species of birds.
Activities & Amenities nearby
Lough Owel is one of three
Designated Bathing Area's in Westmeath. Click
here for a map showing the locations and dive into the refreshing clear waters of Westmeath's lakes. If you plan to head out for a swim, always stay safe.
The
Royal Canal Greenway is a scenic 130km walking and cycling amenity stretching alongside the historic 225-year-old canal. Not only Ireland's longest greenway, it's also known for its scenic beauty, rich heritage and abundance of wildlife.
Fishing and bird watching are popular activities at Lough Owel. The lake is managed by
Inland Fisheries Ireland click
here for more information and map of boat drifts on the lake.
Mullingar town is a short 5 minute drive away, famous for its musical heritage and vibrant culture it is definitely worth a visit. The town bustles with a fantastic range of coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and high quality accomodation options.
Belvedere House, Gardens & Park where architectural beauty holds hands with unspoilt nature, and open rolling parklands give way to whimsical discoveries is waiting to be discovered.
Off the beaten track you will find
Weirs Bar and Restaurant in Multyfarnham, well worth the short drive it is located 7km from the lake. Good food is promised with old world charm, centrally located in the picturesque village of
Multyfarnham