Ever wondered about the world’s tallest waterfall? Angel Falls in Venezuela takes the crown with an impressive drop of 979 metres!
If you’re looking for one in Ireland, its charming waterfalls are scattered from the wild Ring of Kerry to County Wicklow’s lush landscapes.
Here’s our curated list of the most enchanting waterfalls across Ireland.
The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Ireland
If you’re on the lookout for some seriously beautiful waterfalls in Ireland, notable ones include Assaranca, Torc, Glencar, The Devil’s Chimney, and Powerscourt.
Assaranca Waterfall
Location: Ardara, Co. Donegal
GPS: 54° 45′ 30.945″N, 8° 30′ 48.9168″W
Assaranca Waterfall is a contender for the most impressive waterfall in Donegal, Ireland. This beauty deserves a spot on your must-visit list for its breathtaking cascades, serene surroundings, and a blend of natural beauty and local charm.
What makes this waterfall a winner? Well, for starters, it’s a stone’s throw from the village of Ardara, known for its quaint streets, traditional pubs, and vibrant festivals, and it’s got this low-key vibe that’s hard to beat.
And guess what? You can park up so close that you don’t even have to break a sweat to see it. It’s a perfect destination that embraces everyone, regardless of their mobility limitations.
As you approach, the waterfall’s stunning beauty unfolds, and the crashing sound greets you as soon as you open your car door. You’ll likely get this misty embrace, like a gentle face-splash of cool water, on a particularly adventurous day.
In contrast to more remote waterfalls, Assaranca Waterfall showcases the simplicity of experiencing nature’s wonders without elaborate infrastructure.
Pro Tip:
It’s best to time your visit to Assaranca Waterfall after a heavy rain. While this captivating cascade is accessible throughout the year, its true splendour emerges during or after rain showers. If you’re up for a little extra adventure, take a quick 1-kilometre jaunt down the road to check out Maghera Beach and the intriguing Maghera Caves.
Torc Waterfall
Location: Torc, Killarney, Co. Kerry
GPS: 52°00’08.5″N, 9°30’22.9″W
Torc Waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in Killarney, Ireland, but it can be a bit of a ride, especially if driving in. Beyond the chaos, this body of water has its own charm, with proximity to the best spots in Kerry and scenic walking trails.
Location-wise, you’ll find Torc Waterfall chilling at the base of Torc Mountain, just a short hop from Killarney Town and Muckross House’s doorstep.
Now, about the waterfall itself, it’s not your run-of-the-mill situation. It stands tall at 20 metres and stretches a whopping 110 metres, all thanks to the Owengarriff River doing its thing, draining from the ‘Devil’s Punchbowl’ lake.
And here’s a little nugget of history for you: Torc Waterfall earned its name from the Irish word for ‘Boar’. There’s even a wild legend floating around about some poor soul cursed by the Devil turning into a boar right there at Torc Waterfall!
Pro Tip:
For a laid-back Torc Waterfall adventure in Killarney, snag a bike rental from town! It’s a chill way to roll straight into the scenic Killarney National Park.
Glencar Waterfall
Location: Largandoon, Glencar, Co. Leitrim
GPS: 54°20’25.1″N, 8°22’06.5″W
Glencar Waterfall is a stunning 50-foot cascade in Ireland surrounded by greenery and cliffs. This makes it a pretty spot for visitors near Glencar Lough.
It charmed Ireland’s leading poet, William Butler Yeats, who expressed its beauty in his poem ‘The Stolen Child’.
Now, the deal with Glencar Waterfall is that it might not be the biggest waterfall in Ireland, but it’s hands down one of the most picturesque. It’s got this romantic allure with its gentle waterfall, pretty surroundings, and peaceful vibes for couples.
You can take a short stroll through a scenic wooded path, like a 5 to 10-minute walk, to catch different viewing spots of the waterfall.
For a longer adventure, try a 2-hour hike from the car park to the waterfall, circling back along the road and up a nearby hill. It’s a nice way to stretch those legs and take in the scenery.
And guess what? Entry is free! Plus, they’ve got a car park, a picnic area, public toilets (always handy), a kids’ playground, and a tourist information spot.
Pro Tip:
After checking out Glencar Waterfall’s views, swing by the cafe at Glencar Lough for a coffee or a snack. It’s right around the corner!
If you’re up for more walks, you’re in luck. You can explore cool trails like Benbulben Forest Walk, the calm Lough Gill, and easygoing Union Wood.
The Devil’s Chimney Waterfall
Location: Leitrim/Sligo Border in Glencar Valley
GPS: 54°20’51.4″N 8°23’35.0″W
Ireland’s The Devil’s Chimney Waterfall, also known as ‘Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird’, is a special, quirky place in Leitrim and Sligo. What makes it unique is that, in strong winds, the waterfall can flow backwards, creating a beautiful and unusual sight.
Standing tall at nearly 490 feet, it’s officially Ireland’s highest waterfall, as per the World Waterfall database. The Irish name, which translates to ‘stream against the height’, makes sense when it’s wet and the wind blows from the south.
Checking out the Devil’s Chimney is kind of a time-sensitive thing, thanks to Ireland’s chill weather. But if you swing by during or right after a good rain, you’re in for a treat—picture water doing its thing, gracefully pouring down the cliff.
Now, the Devil’s Chimney walk is one of the oddest among the Sligo walks. It’s a loop, about 1.2km long, and takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Thirty minutes up, 15 minutes down.
Starting from the pedestrian ‘kissing gate’ on the right of the trailhead sign, the walk kicks off on a proper path before you hit the woods and start the climb. It still seems easy to follow, though, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views.
Pro Tip:
Spice up your visit by checking out The Devil’s Chimney Waterfall’s nearby spots in Sligo!
Take a stroll or drive through the 10-kilometre Gleniff Horseshoe, catch a glimpse of Ireland’s tallest cave—Grainne and Diarmuid, and soak in the views of the Annacoona cliffs.
Powerscourt Waterfall
Location: Deerpark, Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow
GPS: 53°08’46.3″N 6°12’40.3″W
Powerscourt Waterfall is a standout in the Irish waterfall scene, towering impressively at 121 metres and earning its stripes as a must-see in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Driving up to the waterfall, you’re surrounded by ancient trees and buzzing wildlife. The whole scene is like a painting, especially when the waterfall crashes into the Dargle River at the base of the Wicklow Mountains.
Now, if you’re feeling all outdoorsy, Powerscourt Waterfall is perfect for a summer picnic. If you’re a parent, no worries! There’s a playground here to keep the kiddos busy.
Oh, and heads up—if you’re not in the mood for a homemade picnic, there’s a kiosk open from June to August near the car park where you can just grab some snacks and drinks. How convenient!
Pro Tip:
When visiting Powerscourt Waterfall in the warmer months, be aware of midges or small flies. Bring repellent to keep them at bay, and consider eating in your car to avoid any hassle.
Glenevin Waterfall
Location: Straid, Clonmany, Co. Donegal
GPS: 55°15’45.0″N 7°26’39.4″W
Glenevin Waterfall is a stunning sight to behold in the heart of Donegal, Ireland. This cascading beauty is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
To reach the waterfall, you can follow a scenic trail that starts from the car park next to Glen House B&B.
Just follow the gravel path for about a kilometre through the serene woods. You won’t need a compass for this one; it’s a straightforward trail.
And in just 25 to 30 minutes, you’ll be standing in front of Glenevin Waterfall—talk about a piece of cake!
You’ll see a wedge-shaped waterfall tossing fresh mountain water over black rock from 30 feet up—pretty impressive, right? This skinny flow of freshwater keeps going through the forest, ending up in a cute little stream.
And hey, if you’re in the mood for a whole day out, why not pack a picnic and make it a combo with Glenevin Waterfall?
The Glenevin Waterfall is also part of the Inishowen 100, a drive that hits up the coolest spots on the peninsula. You could technically do it all in a day, but we’d say spread it out over two days for the full experience.
Pro Tip:
Toss Mamore Gap to your Glenevin Waterfall trip—it’s just a short 10-minute drive away! It offers the most scenic views on a narrow, steep road between Urris and Buncrana.
Tourmakeady Waterfall
Location: Tourmakeady, Co. Mayo
GPS: 53°39’10.2 N, 9°22’33.3″W
Tourmakeady Waterfall is a secluded and accessible natural retreat in Ireland, offering a peaceful escape from crowds with its tranquil surroundings and year-round retreat.
What’s cool about it? Well, it’s part of the ‘People’s Millennium Forest’, which means you can access it 365 days a year. No need to worry about opening hours—just show up whenever you fancy.
The waterfall is pretty versatile; it feels different depending on the weather. So, every time you visit, it’s a new and cool experience.
Imagine strolling along a 2.5 km nature trail, surrounded by native Irish trees, leading you straight to the waterfall. Just keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—it’s like stepping into a woodland wonderland!
Oh, and did you know former Ireland president Éamon de Valera courted his wife there? Yep, right by the Tourmakeady Waterfall.
But that’s not all—veer off the main trail, and you’ll find a stocked lake with brown trout, attracting anglers from all corners. And the views from the highest point just after the waterfall later? Spectacular!
Pro Tip:
When embarking on the scenic journey along Tourmakeady Waterfall, it’s best to wear waterproof shoes for muddy paths, especially after rain. Choose ones good for steep slopes to enjoy the trail comfortably.
Kilfane Waterfall
Location: Kilfane Demesne, Kilfane, Co. Kilkenny
GPS: 52°33’09.4″N 7°05’17.0″W
In Ireland, Kilfane Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in the heart of a 6-acre garden. The waterfall plunges 30 feet into a pool surrounded by ferns and mosses, creating a serene and scenic spot.
The garden is a rare example of the 18th-century ‘Romantic movement’, which favoured wild and rugged landscapes over manicured lawns.
From curated lawns to wild wooded paths, the waterfall offers rustic grottos, hedge mazes, fish ponds, and more! Depending on when you go, it might be a powerful flow or a gentle cascade down the rocks.
And there’s a stream too—just follow it through the gardens, and it leads you to a 30-foot waterfall. The pool at the bottom is super peaceful as well! It’s perfect for a relaxed picnic or just chilling out.
Kilfane is open only from July to August, so don’t miss the chance to visit this hidden gem that has been preserved for over 200 years.
Pro Tip:
Explore the chill vibes around Kilfane Waterfall in County Kilkenny! Take a quick hop to Thomastown by the Nore River or mosey along to Inistoge.Or, if you’re feeling riverside cool, Graiguenamanagh (quite a mouthful, we know) by the River Barrow is another laid-back spot worth checking out.
Glenmacnass Waterfall
Location: Laragh West, Newtown Park, Co. Wicklow
GPS: 53°03’51.7″N 6°20’12.4″W
Ireland’s Glenmacnass Waterfall in the Wicklow Mountains is stunning, with an impressive 80-meter cascade. If you’re cruising through Wicklow and haven’t seen it, you’re missing out on one of the coolest attractions in the area.
The name itself, Glenmacnass, translates to ‘the glen of the hollow of the waterfall’ in Irish—pretty poetic, huh?
Now, there are two ways to soak in the beauty of this natural wonder.
When driving from Laragh village, you can glimpse Glenmacnass Waterfall uphill on the Old Military Road, with limited but photo-worthy spots on the right side.
As you drive, you can also score some killer views of the fields and falls from afar. This makes it a pretty scenic option if you’re feeling lazy and just want to enjoy the sights from your car.
But if you’re more adventurous, there’s a main car park at the top of the hill. There’s plenty of space to park your ride, and from there, you can take a stroll to the top of the falls.
It’s a bit of a hike, but it can be totally worth it to see the water tumbling down into the valley!
Just a heads up: if you go for the walking option, be extra cautious. You have to hoof it back along the road, and with cars zipping by, it can get a tad dicey.
Pro Tip:
Done with Glenmacnass Waterfall? Uncover the beauty of Lough Tay, a stunning lake in the Wicklow Mountains along the Sally Gap Drive.
Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views from convenient viewpoints near the Roundwood to Sally Gap road.
Secret Waterfall
Location: Largysillagh, Largy, Co. Donegal
GPS: 54°37’51.2″N 8°30’28.8″W
The Secret Waterfall is literally a hidden treasure in Donegal, Ireland. Why? Because this isn’t your average stroll-in-the-park kind of destination. Instead, it’s a remote location that demands a challenging hike through a forest and a river crossing.
First things first, though—plan ahead! The route is coastal and slippery, so checking tide times is crucial for safety. Seriously, don’t skip that part.
To get to the waterfall, you’ll also need to navigate a private field, where the owner kindly grants access. It’s advisable to respect the rules: keep your dogs on a lead, pick up your trash, and don’t stand on the gate.
The tricky part begins with a 500m rocky and slippery walk to the coast, with the last 350m being even trickier. But the sound of the waterfall is a dead giveaway, and the view is worth the careful trek, especially after some heavy rain.
When you’re done, just backtrack and hit the parking area. But if you’re still up for more nature awesomeness, a 25-minute drive takes you to the Slieve League Cliffs.
Pro Tip:
It’s smart to only go to the Secret Waterfall when you’ve got the whole tide-time thing figured out. Don’t skip the local advice if you’re a bit iffy.
This spot, chilling in a cave, struts its stuff only at low tide, which, by the way, plays hide-and-seek depending on when you swing by.
Poulanass Waterfall
Location: Wicklow Way, Lugduff, Co. Wicklow
GPS: 53°00’12.1″N 6°20’43.7″W
Poulanass Waterfall, near Glendalough Upper Lake, is a mesmerising natural wonder in Ireland. This is where cascading water flows through a moss-covered ravine, emitting a captivating turquoise vibe as it splashes into the pool below.
But here’s the cool part—it’s not some hard-to-reach place. Nope, all you need to do is hop on the Glendalough Waterfall Walk, a chill trail through mossy woods and grassy hillsides.
As you stroll along, a clear stream splashes over boulders. Heads up! There’s some climbing and navigating narrow paths here too.
While you’re on the trail, listen for the jays’ lively chatter and spot a wild goat or two as you walk the trail. After reaching the top of Poulanass Waterfall, the path gently descends through mixed woodlands, guiding you back to the valley floor.
This leg of the journey is buzzing with life—birds doing their thing, and those wild goats adding their charm to the scene. The moss-covered forest also adds a touch of charm to the whole experience.
Pro Tip:
If you’re ever chilling at Glendalough and want a cool spot, check out the Upper Lake for beautiful views of the mountains and the ancient monastic site. It’s just a short walk from Poulanass Waterfall. There’s also a sweet beach nearby, perfect for a laid-back picnic right by the car park.
Mahon Falls
Location: Mountain Breeze, Comeragh, Co. Waterford
GPS: 52°13’58.4″N 7°32’52.5″W
The Mahon Falls, an 80-meter cascade in Ireland, is a magnificent display of nature’s beauty by the River Mahon. Flowing from the Comeragh Plateau, this waterfall gracefully dances over sandstone cliffs, captivating all who visit.
Now, you’d figure that with a waterfall this size, it’d be all kinds of epic, right? Well, not quite our luck—it’s been dryer than a desert lately, so instead of the expected cascade, we got a chilled-out trickle.
Still, the entire place has a great vibe. The walk is easygoing, with a gravel path that’s family-friendly and offers clear views from the start.
Now, about the falls—don’t expect Niagara vibes. Instead, it’s a laid-back cascade, allowing a close-up view from any angle, but it gets wild only after a solid night of rain.
And here’s a little twist—thanks to the dry spell, the rocks around the falls were out in full force, more exposed than usual. Many people take advantage of this by climbing higher up the cliffs.
Pro Tip:
Check out the ‘Magic Road’ right by the Mahon Falls parking lot to add an extra layer of wonder to your visit. Seriously, cars just roll uphill there, like some kind of gravity-defying trick.
Aasleagh Falls
Location: River, Erriff, Co. Mayo
GPS: 553° 3713.1 N, 9°40’14.1″W
Aasleagh Falls is a captivating waterfall destination in Ireland that features a wide cascade that dramatically plunges over a rocky ledge into the River Erriff, eventually meeting the glacial fjord.
This place is perfect if you’re in the mood for a picturesque picnic spot. The scene is a popular pitstop for fjord explorers, and those Killary Harbour boat tours are an absolute must!
Here’s the scoop—there’s no official path to the falls, so it can get muddy, especially after rain. If you’re visiting in wet weather, expect to get dirty and consider bringing an extra pair of shoes.
And hey, if you happen to be a fan of the broadcaster-natural historian David Attenborough, you’ll appreciate the fact that he once perched on top of this falls, sharing tales about the intriguing life of eels with his BBC crew a few years back.
Pro Tip:
For a captivating view of Aasleagh Falls, hop on a laid-back Killary Fjord tour departing from Nancy’s Point. These tours happen daily from April to October, serving up stunning scenery and a chance to catch dolphins in action.