Looking for the best photo spots in Leitrim? Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned professional, County Leitrim offers stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique hidden gems that are perfect for your next photography adventure. From lush lakes and rugged mountains to quaint villages and historic sites, Leitrim is a treasure trove of breathtaking scenery waiting to be captured.
1. Glencar Waterfall
Arguably one of Leitrim’s most iconic locations, Glencar Waterfall is a must-see for any photographer. This stunning 50-foot waterfall, nestled in the lush countryside near Glencar Lough, offers an ethereal backdrop for nature photography. The waterfall is particularly enchanting after rainfall, with mist and flowing water creating captivating long-exposure shots. Surrounding walking trails also provide beautiful views of the waterfall from various angles.
Tip: For the best shots, visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and take advantage of softer lighting.
2. Lough Allen
Lough Allen is one of the largest lakes in Ireland and is surrounded by serene landscapes perfect for nature and landscape photography. Whether you’re capturing the calm reflections of the lake, the rolling hills in the distance, or the local wildlife, Lough Allen offers endless opportunities for stunning shots. During sunrise and sunset, the lake’s waters mirror the sky, making for dramatic and colorful photos.
Tip: Head to Drumshanbo on the southern shore of Lough Allen for panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains.
3. The Shannon-Erne Waterway
The Shannon-Erne Waterway winds its way through Leitrim, offering a perfect blend of calm waters, charming canal locks, and traditional Irish countryside. This waterway is ideal for capturing long-exposure shots of boats or simply photographing the peaceful beauty of rural Ireland. Along the way, you’ll find picturesque bridges, quiet walking paths, and opportunities to photograph local wildlife, including swans and herons.
Tip: The section near Leitrim Village is particularly scenic, offering both river and canal views.
4. Fowley’s Falls
Hidden in the village of Manorhamilton, Fowley’s Falls is an underrated gem for photographers. This series of cascading waterfalls is surrounded by dense woodland, offering a mystical setting perfect for nature and waterfall photography. The secluded nature of this spot also makes it a great place to experiment with different angles and long-exposure techniques without interruption.
Tip: After heavy rain, the falls are especially dramatic, providing opportunities for dynamic shots of flowing water.
5. The Glenade Valley
For those looking to capture sweeping landscapes, The Glenade Valley is an extraordinary location. Nestled between the Dartry Mountains and Benbulben, this valley offers photographers expansive views of rolling hills, green pastures, and dramatic cliffs. The valley is especially captivating in the early morning when mist often hangs over the fields, creating an atmospheric scene straight out of a fairy tale.
Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the valley and its surrounding peaks.
6. Carrick-on-Shannon
For those interested in urban and street photography, Carrick-on-Shannon, the largest town in Leitrim, offers a mix of charming streets, colorful houses, and riverside views. Stroll along the River Shannon to capture shots of the quaint bridges and boats, or explore the town’s historic buildings for architectural photography. Carrick-on-Shannon is also a vibrant town, so you’re likely to find interesting street scenes and local life to photograph.
Tip: Visit St. George’s Heritage Centre for shots of the town’s historical architecture and interiors.
7. The Iron Mountains
The Iron Mountains are a remote, lesser-known spot perfect for photographers seeking rugged, wild landscapes. These rolling hills and windswept ridges are ideal for capturing the raw beauty of Ireland’s wilderness. The area also offers stunning views over the Leitrim and Sligo countryside, and on a clear day, you can even see as far as Lough Gill and the Atlantic coast.
Tip: Sunset and sunrise provide the best light for landscape photography, highlighting the textures and contours of the mountains.
8. Parke’s Castle
For a mix of history and photography, visit Parke’s Castle, located on the shores of Lough Gill. This beautifully restored 17th-century castle offers striking views over the lake and surrounding countryside. Whether you’re photographing the castle’s stone walls, the reflections of Lough Gill, or the lush greenery around the estate, Parke’s Castle is a fantastic spot for capturing Ireland’s historical beauty.
Tip: Try shooting the castle at dusk or dawn for atmospheric lighting that complements the historic architecture.
9. The Blueway
Leitrim’s Blueway is a network of walking, cycling, and paddling trails that runs through the county, offering countless scenic viewpoints along the way. The section between Carrick-on-Shannon and Drumshanbo is particularly picturesque, with the canal, countryside, and surrounding wildlife providing plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you’re capturing the tranquility of the water or the scenic beauty of the rural landscape, the Blueway is a must-visit for photographers.
Tip: Consider visiting in autumn when the trees lining the Blueway turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange.
10. Dromahair Village
The charming village of Dromahair offers photographers a mix of rural landscapes and historic sites. Stroll through the village to capture shots of traditional Irish cottages, stone bridges, and the peaceful Bonet River. Just outside the village lies Creevelea Abbey, a 16th-century Franciscan friary with beautifully preserved ruins perfect for architectural and historical photography.
Tip: Explore the abbey’s interior for dramatic shots of stone archways and ancient carvings.
Plan Your Photography Trip to Leitrim Today!
From cascading waterfalls to historic castles and serene lakes, Leitrim offers an abundance of beautiful locations for photographers of all skill levels. Whether you’re capturing wide landscapes, intimate nature scenes, or charming Irish towns, Leitrim’s diverse scenery provides endless opportunities for creativity.
Pack your camera and explore these amazing photo spots in Leitrim! Don’t forget to share your shots on social media and tag us—Leitrim is waiting to be discovered through your lens.
