County Armagh has fewer prominent wild swimming spots compared to coastal counties, with Camlough Lake being the primary public location. Wild Water Armagh is a private pond, so access may be restricted. Bring appropriate gear (wetsuit, swim shoes, towel, warm clothing for post-swim), and consider a tow float for visibility. Check water quality updates from local authorities or the European Environment Agency. Both locations have active swimming communities, with events like triathlons and ice swims offering opportunities to connect with locals.
Camlough Lake: Located near Camlough village, Camlough Lake, also known as the “Crooked Lake,” is a large disused reservoir located in a steep valley between Camlough Mountain and Slieve Gullion. It’s a well-known spot for open-water swimming, with a 750m loop marked by buoys starting from the slipway on the Crossmaglen road. Stunning views of Slieve Gullion and surrounding hills, with calm, predictable water conditions due to the lake’s ribbon shape acting as a wind funnel. Newry Triathlon Club maintains a container with changing facilities and safety equipment storage. The lake hosts triathlons and occasional night swims. Swimmers can expect cold, fresh water, ideal for long swims (e.g., 250m to the first buoy or a full 750m loop). The lake has a vibrant swimming community, with events like the Ireland Ice Swim attracting enthusiasts. Not a designated swimming area, so swimmers should follow depth markers and stay near the edge to avoid boat traffic. Check water quality and weather conditions beforehand.
Wild Water Armagh (Conroy’s Pond): A private open-water natural swimming pond in Armagh, known for its unique setting and community-driven events. It gained attention for hosting the Ireland Ice Swim in February 2015, where swimmers braved water under 5°C. A secluded, tranquil pond with a natural, almost back-garden feel, offering a peaceful escape. The water can be icy, especially in winter, with historical accounts of swimmers breaking through thin ice.
Expect a challenging, invigorating swim, particularly for those seeking the thrill of cold-water dipping. The pond is popular for its health benefits, with swimmers reporting feeling energized and revived.
A friendly, local swimming community, with events like the ICE Challenge drawing adventurous swimmers. The pond is private, so access may require permission or event participation. Cold water poses risks, so swimmers should be prepared for extreme conditions, never swim alone, and ensure proper warm-up post-swim. Check with Wild Water Armagh for access details. Safety First: Wild swimming in County Armagh can be exhilarating but requires caution. Always swim with a companion, check local guidelines, tides (if applicable), and weather, and be aware of cold-water risks like hypothermia. Refer to Water Safety Ireland for guidelines (https://watersafety.ie/open-water-swimming/).
County Armagh:
Ireland’s County Armagh is steeped in history and natural beauty, with the Navan Fort, an ancient ceremonial site, offering archaeological intrigue. The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium provide stargazing opportunities, while the city’s two cathedrals reflect its ecclesiastical heritage. Other attractions include the nearby Slieve Gullion Forest Park with its hiking trails and panoramic views. Armagh is Ireland’s fifth smallest county by size (1,253 square km) and tenth largest by population (194,394). Population peaked at 232,393 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 108,815, in 1937. In terms of hospitality, Armagh is Ireland’s 26th most visited tourist county with around 57,000 international visitors per year.
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