The Notebook

The Long Way RoundNotebook No 138June 2026

Lough Tay from the Sally Gap, in the wrong weather

The dark inland lough below the Wicklow uplands, seen from the bog road above, on a day the cloud will not lift.

Collected by Deborah. Read her editorial perspective

From the Sally Gap and the bog road above, we see Lough Tay on a day the cloud will not lift. The small glacial corrie, a bare hour south of Dublin, is defined by its tea-black waters, a half moon of white quartz beach, and the steep western scree of Luggala. From this high perspective, the lough truly mimics a pint of stout with a frothy head of sand.

Lough Tay from the Sally Gap, in the wrong weather

Slea Head

You should approach from Roundwood on the R759 to Sally Gap, then take the three-minute path from the signposted lay-by to the viewpoint. This lough reveals its true character on a day of low, gray skies and shifting rain. Bright sunshine diminishes its presence for us; proper weather deepens its mood.

Park at the upper lay-by and walk twenty meters to the wooden bench. Brief breaks in the clouds illuminate the white beach against the dark water, a perfect instance of transient drama we remember.

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From the notebook

Editorial itineraries from Ireland.

Collected notes. A few times each season.