Lough Tay

Lough Tay is a small lake in the Wicklow Mountains in County Wicklow, Ireland. It lies between the mountains Djouce (725 m) and Luggala (595 m), whose granite walls dominate the view. The lake covers about 48 hectares, is up to 35 m deep and sits at roughly 246 m above sea level.

It is known as the Guinness Lake, after the former owners of the Guinness estate at Luggala. One story says white sand was spread on the north shore so the lake would resemble a pint of stout; this is not documented. The lake is on private land and public access is restricted.

The well-known photo works from car parks along the R759, for example at Ballinastoe Wood or the J.B. Malone Memorial. Coming from Roundwood, a small lay-by on the right offers a quick view of the lake; the usual ascent of Luggala also starts from the car park on the R759. There is no public transport across the mountains, and the roads are narrow and congested on fine weekends. Do not enter private land and watch for steep drops; access and paths may be closed, so check the situation in advance.