country guide

The best waterfalls in Ireland

A hand-picked guide to 3 of the most stunning waterfalls in Ireland. Each entry below has our personal notes, photos, driving directions and the practical detail you need to plan a visit — from parking and hike lengths to swimming rules and the best time of year to go.

#1 · 121 m drop

Powerscourt Waterfall

Enniskerry · Wicklow · Ireland

Powerscourt Waterfall — heroPowerscourt Waterfall — photo 2

**Powerscourt Waterfall**

Located in County Wicklow, Ireland, this county is incredibly beautiful — with high mountains, extinct volcanoes, and winding mountain roads that make driving an absolute thrill.

Powerscourt Waterfall is a perfect spot for a family picnic. There are wooden benches throughout the area, and best of all, there are iron plates available, so you can bring disposable BBQ trays and grill on the spot!

#2 · 20 m drop

Torc Waterfall

Killarney · Kerry · Ireland

Torc Waterfall — hero

Torc Waterfall is located in Killarney National Park, Ireland, and is one of the most famous natural attractions in the region. It sits at the base of Torc Mountain and is formed by several streams coming together, creating a powerful and dramatic cascade.

Visitors can easily reach the waterfall via a short walking trail surrounded by lush, green forest, offering a very scenic and peaceful experience.

Torc Waterfall is one of the most popular sights in Killarney National Park, attracting many visitors throughout the year. During the rainy season or spring melt, the flow becomes even stronger, making the waterfall especially impressive. Up close, you can feel the power of the water and the refreshing mist.

#3 · 15 m drop

Glencar Waterfall

Glencar · Leitrim · Ireland

Glencar Waterfall — heroGlencar Waterfall — photo 2

Glencar Waterfall: The Place I Wish Time Would Just Stop

I've been meaning to write about this one for a while. Glencar Waterfall, over in Sligo, is my favourite place, full stop. The falls themselves actually sit just across the county line in Leitrim, right by Glencar Lough, with Sligo only a short drive away.

It's not a big site. You could walk the whole thing in fifteen minutes if you wanted to. But there isn't a bad angle anywhere in it — turn in any direction and you're looking at something worth stopping for, like every few steps is its own little painting. I've stood in one spot longer than made any sense, just because I didn't want to move yet. Genuinely, I've wished more than once that time would just stay right there.

Waterfall canyon
Safety first

Stay safe at every waterfall

Wet rocks, hidden currents and fast-changing weather catch out experienced hikers every year. Read our quick safety guide before you head out.

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