Lough Gur is a shallow lake measuring 3.5 meters at its deepest level. It is fed from underground springs and is not free flowing.
Lough Gur was home to Gearóid Iarla who was banished to the bottom of the lake by the Goddess Áine. He will return to the surface every 7 years in an effort to break the curse that was placed upon him. He is said to sleep in a cave and will emerge at the time of Ireland's need to gallop around the lake on his great silver-shod white horse.
The lake and the surrounding area is known to be one of Ireland’s most important archaeological sites. Humans have lived at Lough Gur since Neolithic times around 3000 BC. The site of Lough Gur is the only area in all of Ireland where you will see visible remains of every age of mankind throughout the centuries.
Grange stone circle (the largest stone circle in Ireland) and a dolmen are located near the lake.
Visitors to the Heritage Centre at Lough Gur can find out about the rich heritage of Lough Gur by visiting the interactive multimedia exhibition that brings to life over 6,000 years of archaeology and history.