If you’re dreaming of a day trip filled with the most beautiful mountain views, blooming rhododendrons and a little dose of magic, then look no further than The Vee Pass and Bay Lough, nestled between the Knockmealdown Mountains on the Tipperary/Waterford border. It’s one of Ireland’s hidden gems and the perfect place for a family-friendly adventure outdoors.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful spot to picnic and let the kids run wild, The Vee offers something for everyone—and spring and early summer are especially beautiful when Bay Lough bursts into colour with purple-pink rhododendron blooms.
We’ve been to The Vee Pass and Bay Lough twice now and have not been disappointed by the gorgeous views on each visit. However, on our most recent visit, at the end of May, we got to witness the beautiful rhododendrons blooming all over the mountains and around the lake. It was nothing short of stunning! There’s even a Rhododendron Walking Festival, which takes place in the Vee during the rhododendron season, giving people a chance to witness this beautiful floral display in all it’s glory.
How to Get There
The Vee is located about a 15-minute drive from Clogheen, Co. Tipperary, and roughly 30 minutes from Lismore, Co. Waterford. It’s an easy journey from Cork (1 hour 30 minutes) and a similar distance from Waterford city, making it ideal for a day trip for those living in Munster. If you live further afield it’s most definitely worth the trip though. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in Ireland.
Google Maps location: Bay Lough Car Park
Parking is available at the top of the Vee at the Bay Lough Car Park. From here, you can follow the marked walking trail down to the lough—perfect for families with children who can manage a 15–20-minute forest walk. We brought an umbrella-fold buggy for our youngest son, as we knew he’d want to be carried on the way back up, and even though the terrain is rough in parts, we still managed fine.
Google Maps location: Whitewall Bridge View Point
When driving through The Vee Pass, do not miss Whitewall Bridge View Point, which, during rhododendron season, gives you the most stunning view of a valley filled to the brim with rhododendron flowers. It makes for the most beautiful photo opportunities!
What to Expect at Bay Lough
The Bay Lough loop is about 2.4km return, and while it’s not buggy-friendly, it’s doable for most children over five with sturdy shoes.
The reward? A truly magical sight. Bay Lough, a corrie lake surrounded by heather and rhododendrons, looks like something from a fairy tale. It’s often misty in the morning, giving it an ethereal quality that photographers and nature-lovers will adore. We didn’t walk the full 2.4km loop, but my eldest son and I walked up the hillside to a beautiful viewing point above the lough. It made for some lovely picture opportunities. My partner and our younger sons stayed by the lough and took a walk down a path just by the lough which has the most beautiful views of a valley filled with rhododendrons below. The boys would have happily sat by the lough for hours. Bring a picnic and enjoy this scenic spot to your hearts content.
Local legend says that Bay Lough is home to the infamous witch Petticoat Loose, who was banished to the lake with a stone tied to her neck. A fun (and slightly spooky) tale for older children to enjoy on the walk down.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Rhododendron season (late May to early June) is peak time to visit, as the lake is surrounded by flowering bushes.
- Picnic spots with stunning views abound—bring a blanket and enjoy lunch overlooking the valley.
- Photography lovers will find endless inspiration, from sweeping vistas at The Vee Pass to the moody waters of Bay Lough.
- Hiking options range from easy strolls to longer treks for more adventurous families.
Need-to-Know Tips
- There are no toilet facilities at The Vee, so plan accordingly. We drove through Lismore on our way to The Vee and used the public toilets there before driving on to The Vee. There’s a great playground located next to the toilets in Lismore, so it makes for a good stop off point for the kids.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks, or stop off in Clogheen or Lismore for a bite to eat before or after your walk.
- Dogs are welcome on leads, but be mindful of wildlife and other walkers.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and bring waterproofs just in case—this is Ireland, after all. It was raining and sunny during our visit.
Make a Day of It: Other Nearby Attractions
If you have time to explore further, here are a few more stops that are worth the detour:
- Lismore Castle Gardens – A stunning historic spot perfect for families and one of our favourite places to go during the summer months. The castle gardens are absolutely stunning!
- Glenshelane Forest – A peaceful woodland walk just outside Lismore, suitable for buggies and younger kids.
- Clogheen’s local café, like The Old Convent, offer a treat on the way home. Book ahead for special dining experiences.
Why We Love The Vee and Bay Lough
There’s something truly calming about The Vee. It’s wild and untamed, but incredibly welcoming too. It’s where little legs can hike just enough to feel proud, and where adults can breathe deeply and soak in the view. In a world that often feels too fast-paced, The Vee invites you to slow down, look out and just be present and I love that.
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous sunny day out or marking your calendar for rhododendron season, The Vee and Bay Lough should definitely be on your family day out bucket list.
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Want more days out like this? Check out our posts on The Swiss Cottage in Cahir or our Top 10 Family Walks in Munster.
