Discover the Mystery of Loughareema!

Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland lies Loughareema, famously known as The Vanishing Lake. This intriguing body of water captivates scientists and visitors alike with its perplexing ability to drain and refill within mere hours!

A Geological Marvel!

What makes Loughareema so extraordinary? Three streams feed into this mysterious lake, but the only exit is a drain at the bottom. This drain often gets mysteriously blocked and then unblocked, leading to dramatic fluctuations in water levels.

Imagine standing by the lake in the morning, gazing at its serene beauty, only to find it almost empty by lunchtime! This spellbinding phenomenon is attributed to an enigmatic underground drainage system that channels water to a spring located 1.6 miles (2.5 kilometers) away in the Carey River, as noted by The Geological Society.

Experts Ponder the Puzzling Mechanism!

"Loughareema is a dynamic landscape that keeps you guessing," explains Paul Wilson, a hydrogeologist from the British Geological Survey in Belfast. He highlights the excitement of never knowing whether the lake will be brimming or nearly empty during a visit, as it drains into an underground system shrouded in mystery.

The Cycle of Water and Legends!

As water swells into Loughareema, it brings debris that gradually blocks the drain. Once sealed, the water rises rapidly until pressure forces the blockage to give way, sending levels plummeting once again.

Interestingly, a small road cuts through the heart of Loughareema, remaining accessible even at high water levels! Set against a backdrop of stunning blanket bog, lush peatland, and foggy conditions, this hidden gem is both eerie and enchanting.

Ghostly Tales of the Vanishing Lake!

Adding to its allure are chilling local legends. Folklore recounts a tale from the 19th century when a horse-drawn carriage attempted to cross Loughareema under the cover of night, tragically resulting in a watery demise. It's said that the phantoms of the carriage and its horses haunt the shoreline, making ghostly appearances whenever the lake is full! Could you dare to visit and see for yourself?