Top 19 Best Waterfalls Ireland: Stunning Nature Escapes

I still remember the first time I chased a waterfall in Ireland it was Torc, just after a morning drizzle, and the mist felt like nature’s own magic show. Ireland has this quiet way of surprising you, with its wild green heart and hidden gems tucked behind forest trails and winding mountain roads. If you’re a nature lover, hiker, or just someone who loves capturing raw beauty, the best waterfalls in Ireland are an unforgettable part of the journey. In this guide, I’ve rounded up 19 stunning waterfalls with personal tips, a helpful map, and honest reflections to help you plan your own Irish waterfall adventure. Ready to dive in? Let’s find your next favorite spot.

Map of the Best Waterfalls in Ireland

When I first started planning my Irish waterfall road trip, I felt both excited and overwhelmed. Ireland is full of hidden trails and winding roads, and without a proper plan, it’s easy to miss those tucked-away gems. That’s why I created this map of the best waterfalls in Ireland to help fellow explorers like you find all 19 locations without the guesswork.

Visit the waterfalls in Ireland map

This interactive waterfalls in Ireland map lays it all out clearly. From the well-loved Torc in Kerry to the sea-splashing Dunseverick in the north, each spot is pinned so you can build your own route. Whether you’re after a short stop with a photo op or a full-blown hike through forested paths, this map makes planning easy.

Quick tip: If you’re road-tripping, having these pinned ahead of time saves so much stress. I remember getting lost near Sally Gap and stumbling upon Glenmacnass by accident it turned out to be a highlight of the day!

This is more than just a map it’s your shortcut to unforgettable memories. So go ahead, zoom in, plot your path, and let Ireland’s natural beauty lead the way.

Snippet-worthy answer: The best waterfalls in Ireland map helps you plan your road trip with ease by showing all 19 must-see spots in one place.

Top 19 Best Waterfalls in Ireland

If you’ve ever stood near a roaring waterfall and felt that mix of peace and awe you know the feeling I’m talking about. That’s exactly what chasing waterfalls in Ireland is like. Below, I’m sharing 19 of the best waterfalls in Ireland each with its own magic. You’ll find famous falls, hidden gems, easy hikes, and jaw-dropping views. I’ve added personal tips, travel advice, and the best photo spots to make your planning super easy.

Let’s start exploring:

1. Torc Waterfall, County Kerry

📍 Address: Muckross, Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Torc Waterfall is probably one of the most famous waterfalls in Ireland, and for good reason. Just outside Killarney, it’s part of the lush Killarney National Park and only a 5-minute walk from the main road. That means easy access and stunning views, all in one go.

The falls drop about 20 metres and are best seen after a good Irish rain. I first visited after a morning drizzle and it felt like stepping into a live nature show the mist, the sound, the stillness. If you’re doing the Ring of Kerry, this is a must-stop.

Quick tip: To avoid crowds, go in the early morning or late afternoon. It gets popular quickly!

2. Glencar Waterfall, County Leitrim

📍 Full Address: Glencar Waterfall, Formoyle, Glencar, Co. Leitrim, Ireland

It’s located west of Manorhamilton, not far from the peaceful waters of Glencar Lough (also called Glencar Lake). If you’re coming from Sligo Town, it’s a straight shot—about 15 to 20 minutes by car. From Manorhamilton, you’re looking at just under 20 minutes heading west. You’ll know you’re getting close when the lake appears, calm and glassy, with the mountains rising softly in the background.

Glencar Waterfall is in Formoyle, Glencar, Co. Leitrim, just west of Manorhamilton, near Glencar Lake, close to the Sligo-Leitrim border.

3. Devil’s Chimney, County Sligo

📍 Address: Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird Trail, Glencar, Co. Sligo, Ireland

This is Ireland’s tallest waterfall, dropping a massive 150 metres. Locally known as Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (meaning “stream against the height”), it sometimes blows upward when the wind is strong like nature defying gravity!

It’s a bit of a hike about 30 minutes uphill but the views are totally worth it. The trail isn’t paved, so wear decent shoes.

Answer-first tip: The Devil’s Chimney is the biggest waterfall in Ireland, making it a top spot for hikers and adventurers.

4. Powerscourt Waterfall, County Wicklow

📍 Address: Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

This 121-meter waterfall, which is part of the Powerscourt Estate, is the highest in Ireland. It’s a super accessible spot and ideal for families, with picnic benches, toilets, and open space to let the kids run free.

You’ll pay a small entrance fee, but honestly, it’s worth it for the easy access and facilities.

⏱️ How long do you need at Powerscourt Waterfall?

About 1.5 to 2 hours is perfect time for a wander, a picnic, and lots of photo-taking.

Quick tip: Come on a weekday morning for a quieter experience and more space to explore.

5. Glenmacnass Waterfall, County Wicklow

📍 Address: Sally Gap Drive, Laragh, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

This one feels wild and remote just the way I like it. Found along the Sally Gap scenic drive, Glenmacnass pours down a rocky hillside like silver thread unspooling.

There’s no official car park, just pull in safely along the roadside. No hike required just hop out and take it in.

Hidden gem alert: Glenmacnass is one of the most scenic roadside waterfalls near Dublin.

6. Glenevin Waterfall, County Donegal

📍 Address: Straid, Clonmany, Co. Donegal, Ireland

This charming 12-metre fall is tucked away in Inishowen. A gentle 1km walk leads you through a lovely wooded path with little fairy doors and riverside spots.

Perfect for families or solo wanderers who want that peaceful forest vibe.

Top tip: There’s a tearoom near the entrance for post-walk coffee and cake!

7. Clare Glens Waterfalls, County Limerick

📍 Address: Murroe, Co. Limerick, Ireland

If you love quiet forest trails and off-the-beaten-path beauty, Clare Glens is your place. This isn’t just one waterfall it’s a series of rapids and cascades running through a forested gorge.

The looped walk is around 4km and mostly easy, but wear sturdy shoes just in case.

Quick note: You won’t find crowds here. It’s a peaceful hidden gem in Limerick.

8. Kilfane Glen Waterfall, County Kilkenny

📍 Address: Kilfane, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland

This one feels like stepping into a Jane Austen novel. The waterfall itself is modest, but it’s set in an 18th-century romantic garden complete with stone paths and moss-covered bridges.

Kilfane Glen is only open seasonally in summer, so check ahead.

Fun fact: It was designed as a “picturesque garden” in the 1790s. Total period-drama vibes.

9. Mahon Falls, County Waterford

📍 Address: Comeragh Mountains, Mahon Bridge, Co. Waterford, Ireland

Majestic and moody, Mahon Falls is surrounded by dramatic cliffs in the Comeragh Mountains. The walk from the car park is easy (about 20 minutes), and the valley views feel like something out of a fantasy novel.

Bring layers it gets windy up there!

Photo tip: The best shots are taken from below, looking up into the V-shaped valley.

10. Gleninchaquin Waterfall, County Kerry

📍 Address: Gleninchaquin Park, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Hidden deep in a private valley near Kenmare, this spot is absolutely worth the detour. The falls cascade down a cliff face into a quiet, green glen with trails and picnic spots all around.

It’s a privately run park, so there’s a small fee, but it helps maintain the stunning grounds.

Personal tip: Come in the late afternoon when the sun hits the falls just right it glows.

11. Tullydermot Falls, County Cavan

📍 Address: Tullydermot, Co. Cavan, Ireland

If you’re looking for something less known but just as photogenic, Tullydermot Falls is the one to seek out. Tucked away in the quiet countryside, it’s a 15-meter cascade surrounded by lush greenery.

I stumbled across it on a road trip through the Cavan countryside. The peacefulness of this place really struck me no crowds, just you and nature.

Quick tip: It’s a perfect spot to pull over for a quick break on your way to other attractions in County Cavan.

12. Glenbarrow, County Laois

📍 Address: Glenbarrow, Clonaslee, Co. Laois, Ireland

Glenbarrow Waterfall is a hidden gem. It is tucked away amid the Slieve Bloom Mountains. The 3km walk to the falls takes you through an enchanting forest mossy rocks, little streams, and the sound of the waterfall growing louder the closer you get.

On misty mornings, the falls have a smoky, ethereal feel, almost as if nature’s mist is giving it a dreamy aura. If you’re into those mystical, fog-covered shots, this one’s a winner.

Tip for photographers: Early morning shots can capture the “Irish waterfall smoke” effect. Perfect for a moody Instagram post!

13. Assaranca Waterfall, County Donegal

📍 Address: Assaranca, Dungloe, Co. Donegal, Ireland

Visible right from the road, Assaranca Waterfall is perfect for a quick stop. A short walk along a small path brings you right to the falls, which spill 20 metres into a shallow river below.

The surrounding landscape of Donegal is raw and rugged, and Assaranca adds to that untamed charm. It’s a simple, peaceful spot to catch your breath.

Pro tip: Bring a picnic to the nearby area it’s a lovely, quiet spot to enjoy lunch while listening to the soothing rush of the waterfall.

14. Tourmakeady Waterfall, County Mayo

📍 Address: Tourmakeady, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Tourmakeady Waterfall is one of those places that make you feel like you’ve stepped off the map. Nestled deep in the hills of Mayo, it’s a fantastic picnic and hiking spot. The waterfall itself, which cascades softly into a pool below, is breathtaking.

If you’re planning to visit, I highly recommend walking the nearby trails for a full experience. The surrounding views of Lough Mask and the rugged mountains are worth the effort.

Tip: This is one of the quieter falls, so it’s perfect for a peaceful day out.

15. Mare’s Tail Waterfall, County Cork

📍 Address: Mallow, Co. Cork, Ireland

This one’s wild Mare’s Tail is one of Ireland’s tallest waterfalls, cascading down cliffs in a dramatic display. The falls are remote and require a bit of a trek to reach, but the effort pays off when you’re standing in front of such power.

The surrounding landscape is rugged and untamed, offering great opportunities for hikers and nature lovers. It’s definitely more for the adventurous type.

Insider tip: Make sure to check weather conditions before you go strong winds can make the hike tricky.

16. Aasleagh Falls, County Mayo

📍 Address: Aasleagh, Leenane, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Aasleagh Falls is one of those places where everything seems perfectly in place. Tucked near the village of Leenane, the falls spill dramatically into the wide, open space below. This is salmon country, so depending on the time of year, you might even spot salmon leaping over the falls!

It’s an easy-to-access spot, and with the stunning surrounding views, it’s perfect for a quick visit or a longer stay.

Tip: If you’re into wildlife photography, Aasleagh is a fantastic spot to catch migrating salmon.

17. Dunseverick Falls, Northern Ireland

📍 Address: Dunseverick, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

The striking Dunseverick Falls are famous for dropping directly into the sea, creating an almost magical scene. Situated near the Giant’s Causeway, it’s an easy addition to your Northern Ireland itinerary.

The falls themselves are powerful and dramatic, but the coastline is just as impressive. Make sure to check out the nearby cliffs and enjoy the full view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Quick tip: Visit during sunset for the most breathtaking views of the falls meeting the ocean.

18. Glenariff Forest, County Antrim

📍 Address: Glenariff, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

Glenariff Forest is the place to go if you enjoy walking. The forest has multiple waterfalls scattered throughout its walking trails, making it a real adventure for nature lovers. The falls are serene and peaceful, surrounded by lush vegetation that changes with the seasons.

This place is perfect for a whole day out pack a lunch and enjoy the hiking paths. And if you’re lucky, you might catch some wildlife along the way.

Pro tip: The forest trails can be muddy, so wear sturdy footwear.

19. Glenoe Waterfall, County Antrim

📍 Address: Glenoe, Larne, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

Tucked away in the heart of the Glens of Antrim, Glenoe Waterfall is one of the most fairy-tale-like locations in Ireland. The waterfall drops into a beautiful, lush gorge, making it a peaceful and magical spot to visit.

It’s very close to Belfast, making it ideal for a day trip. The area around the waterfall is so picturesque that it feels like stepping into a scene from a storybook.

Tip for visitors: It’s best visited after heavy rain for that dramatic, full-flowing effect.

Top 5 Waterfalls in Ireland (Quick Pick)

So, you’re short on time but still want to experience the absolute best of Ireland’s waterfalls? I’ve got you. These five are my personal go-to picks the kind that leave you standing there in awe, camera in hand, wondering how something so beautiful can just exist like that.

I chose these based on a mix of popularity, ease of access, and that wow-factor you just can’t fake. Whether it’s your first time in Ireland or your fiftieth, these are the ones that stick with you.

1. Torc Waterfall, County Kerry

Torc was my very first Irish waterfall, and it completely set the tone for all the ones that followed. It’s easy to reach, right off the main road in Killarney National Park, but still feels like stepping into a mossy fairytale. I still remember the mist brushing my face like nature’s own greeting.

• Best for: First-timers, nature lovers, photographers
• Quick tip: Go early or late to avoid the crowds and catch that soft, golden light.

2. Powerscourt Waterfall, County Wicklow

Within a magnificently planted estate, Powerscourt resembles the big stage of Irish waterfalls, tall, dramatic, and exquisite. Perfect if you’re traveling with kids or want a place to picnic under the trees.

• Best for: Families, chilled-out days, Instagram shots
• Fun fact: It’s the highest visible waterfall in Ireland at 121 metres.

3. Glencar Waterfall, County Leitrim

Glencar is gentle and poetic, the kind of place that feels like it’s humming with Irish myths. No surprise W.B. Yeats found inspiration here. It’s peaceful, accessible, and quietly magical.

• Best for: Poets, dreamers, day-trippers
• Nearby bonus: You can also hike to the Devil’s Chimney while you’re there!

4. Devil’s Chimney, County Sligo

This one blew my mind literally. On windy days, the water actually blows upward. It’s the tallest waterfall in Ireland and feels like something out of a fantasy novel. Quite the ascent, but well worth it.

• Best for: Adventurers, hikers, those chasing “the biggest”
• Answer-first note: This is officially the biggest waterfall in Ireland.

5. Glenariff Forest Waterfalls, County Antrim

Honestly, this place is a whole vibe. You’re not just getting one waterfall you’re wandering through a forest filled with them. It’s peaceful, green, and the kind of spot where time slows down.

• Best for: Full-day nature walks, forest bathing, waterfall hopping
• Local tip: Pack lunch and wear proper boots it can get muddy but magical.

So, what are the top 5 waterfalls in Ireland?
The final shortlist includes Torc, Powerscourt, Glencar, Devil’s Chimney, and Glenariff, each of which offers a distinct aspect of Ireland’s natural essence. If you can only fit in a few, start here. You won’t regret it.

Waterfalls Near Dublin, Ireland (Bonus Tips)

Looking for waterfalls near Dublin, Ireland that are actually worth the drive? You’re in luck some of the country’s most peaceful and photogenic falls are just a day trip away from the city. I’ve done these as weekend escapes, last-minute adventures, and even spontaneous detours and every time, I’ve come back feeling recharged.

Whether you’re short on time or just want a quick break from the buzz of the city, here are three gems that offer fresh air, forest trails, and that calming sound of rushing water.

Glenmacnass Waterfall – Wild and Windy on the Sally Gap Drive

Just over an hour from Dublin, Glenmacnass feels like stepping into another world raw, rugged, and completely peaceful. It’s right off the Sally Gap drive, one of the most scenic routes in Wicklow. I once ended up here by accident after getting lost (classic me), and honestly, it was better than anything I had planned.

Short answer for snippet: Glenmacnass is one of the best waterfalls near Dublin for nature lovers, located along the stunning Sally Gap drive in County Wicklow.

• Distance from Dublin: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Best for: Scenic drives, photography, peaceful stops
• Top tip: No major hike here just pull over, soak it in, and snap that perfect wide shot of the valley.

Powerscourt Waterfall – Grand and Family-Friendly

Powerscourt is the kind of place you can visit with your granny, your kids, or your camera crew it just works for everyone. It’s Ireland’s highest visible waterfall at 121 meters, and it sits inside the beautifully kept Powerscourt Estate. I’ve visited on sunny days and misty mornings, and each time felt like a postcard moment.

Short answer for snippet: Powerscourt is a top-rated Dublin Ireland waterfall, ideal for families and picnics, located just 45 minutes from the city.

• Distance from Dublin: ~45 minutes
• Best for: Family trips, relaxed nature days, Instagram-worthy views
• Local tip: Go early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment under the trees.

Kilfane Glen Waterfall – Romantic and Off-the-Beaten-Path

Kilfane is a bit more under the radar, and that’s part of what makes it so special. This 18th-century garden in County Kilkenny has a dreamy, romantic feel think ivy-covered trails, hidden grottos, and a small but picture-perfect waterfall. It’s not massive, but it feels like a secret straight out of a storybook.

Short answer for snippet: Kilfane Glen is a hidden waterfall near Dublin with romantic charm and historical gardens, perfect for a day trip.

• Distance from Dublin: ~1 hour 45 minutes
• Best for: Couples, slow travel days, historical garden lovers
• Travel tip: It’s only open seasonally (usually summer), so check ahead before you go.

Hidden Waterfalls in Ireland Worth Exploring

Some of the best moments I’ve had while chasing waterfalls in Ireland didn’t come from guidebooks or top 10 lists. They came from wrong turns, friendly tips from locals, or pure curiosity when I saw water glinting through the trees. If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering spots that feel untouched and secret, these hidden waterfalls in Ireland are calling your name.

Hidden waterfalls in Ireland offer peaceful escapes and a real sense of discovery, perfect for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

1. Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (Back Route), County Sligo

You’ve probably heard of the Devil’s Chimney as the tallest waterfall in Ireland but did you know there’s a lesser-known back route up the hill that barely anyone takes? The views are unreal, and the path feels wild and untouched.

This hidden waterfall in Ireland surprises hikers with its uphill mist and reverse flow on windy days.
🗺️ Local tip: Park near Glencar and ask a local for the old path it’s rarely marked, but unforgettable.

2. O’Sullivan’s Cascade, County Kerry

Tucked inside Killarney National Park, this one’s often skipped for the more famous Torc but it has its own magic. The walk to get there is quiet and wooded, and the waterfall flows over layers of dark stone like a silk ribbon unraveling.

O’Sullivan’s Cascade is a hidden gem in Kerry that feels like a secret kept by the trees.
🌿 Best time: Early morning, when the sun filters through the forest canopy.

3. Boolakeel Waterfall, County Cork

This is one I stumbled across by complete accident on a solo drive through Beara Peninsula. There’s no big sign, no crowds just the sound of water and a view that opens up out of nowhere. It’s wild, wind-swept, and completely unspoiled.

Boolakeel is a true hidden waterfall in Ireland, perfect for photographers craving solitude and drama.
📸 Tip: Bring a tripod it’s one of those moody Irish spots that’s made for long exposure shots.

4. Dunseverick Falls (from the side path), County Antrim

Most people pull up for a quick photo from the top, but if you follow the side path along the rocks, you’ll find a different view where the waterfall crashes straight into the Atlantic. It’s raw, windy, and feels like you’re at the edge of the world.

Dunseverick’s hidden view reveals a rare Irish waterfall that spills directly into the sea.
🌊 Safety note: Watch your step these rocks can get slippery in wet weather.

5. Steeple Waterfall, County Mayo

Rarely mentioned, even among locals, this waterfall near the Partry Mountains is one for true wanderers. There’s a sense of total stillness here like the land is holding its breath. It’s not far from Aasleagh, but way fewer people find it.

Steeple Waterfall is one of the most peaceful hidden waterfalls in Ireland perfect for mindful moments.
🧭 Best for: Solo travelers, journaling, and just sitting quietly with nature.

Short answer for snippet:
Hidden waterfalls in Ireland like O’Sullivan’s Cascade, Boolakeel, and Steeple Waterfall offer quiet beauty and peaceful nature escapes ideal for travelers seeking less touristy spots.

Conclusion

There’s something soul-stirring about standing in front of a waterfall in Ireland. Maybe it’s the way the mist catches the morning light, or how the sound of rushing water drowns out every noisy thought in your head. Or maybe it’s just the magic of this island doing what it does best: surprising you when you least expect it.

For me, chasing waterfalls in Ireland isn’t just about ticking off locations on a map. It’s about slowing down. Taking the long road. Finding beauty tucked behind a bend or hidden deep in a forest where your phone signal disappears but your senses come alive.

Short answer for snippet: You should visit Ireland’s waterfalls for their peaceful beauty, hidden locations, and the unforgettable feeling of connecting with nature.

And honestly? Some of the best spots aren’t even the famous ones. Sure, Torc and Powerscourt are breathtaking but it’s places like O’Sullivan’s Cascade or Boolakeel that really stick with me. They’re the kind of places you stumble upon, and then carry with you long after you’ve left.

So here’s my invitation: go find your own favorite. Maybe it’ll be one that’s already pinned on the map or maybe it’ll be one you find on a wrong turn, like I did near Glenmacnass. Either way, I’d love to hear about it.

Tell me your waterfall story in the comments. Have a favorite? A hidden gem I missed? Share it I’m always looking for new spots to explore.

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