Best lakes around Glebe are not traditional natural lakes, as this inner-city Sydney suburb is characterized by its extensive foreshore parks and waterfront access to Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay. These bays are integral parts of Sydney Harbour, offering scenic water views and recreational opportunities. The area provides an urban waterscape experience, with interconnected parks stretching along the waterfront.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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Camlough Lake The often calm, tranquil waters of Cam Lough stretch for just over two kilometers in a north-west to south-east direction. This narrow, elongate lough provides rich waters for the fisherman and marks a break in the lines of hills that surround Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion.
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The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is somewhat smaller than the South Cairn; it measures about 18 meters in diameter. During excavations, two stone boxes from the Bronze Age were found in the hill. Right next to it is the "Calliagh Beara's Lough" on top of the ridge.
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Glebe, an inner-city Sydney suburb, doesn't feature traditional natural lakes. Instead, its charm lies in its extensive foreshore parks and waterfront access to Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay, which are integral parts of Sydney Harbour. These areas offer scenic water views and recreational opportunities akin to lakeside environments.
Yes, the Glebe Foreshore Walk is a popular pedestrian and cycling path that meanders through interconnected parks like Federal Park, Jubilee Park, Bicentennial Park, and Blackwattle Bay Park. These paths offer stunning views of Sydney's skyline and the bay, perfect for leisurely strolls.
The interconnected Glebe Foreshore Parks, including Federal Park, Jubilee Park, Bicentennial Park, and Blackwattle Bay Park, are highly recommended. They offer expansive grassy areas, water views, and various amenities.
Absolutely. The foreshore parks are well-equipped for families. Federal Park includes a playground for various ages, and Jubilee Park has a smaller playground suitable for younger children. Expansive grassy areas are perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Yes, the Glebe Foreshore Parks are dog-friendly. Federal Park, in particular, features a designated off-leash area, making it a popular spot for dog owners to enjoy with their pets.
The Glebe Foreshore Walk, which connects the various parks, is generally well-maintained and offers accessible paths suitable for wheelchairs, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic waterfront views.
Beyond walking and cycling, kayaking and rowing are common activities in the bay waters. There's a sandy spot near the Rozelle Bay Pontoon for easy kayak entry. The bays are ideal for enjoying the urban waterscape.
While people do fish in the bay, consuming the catch is not recommended due to historical industrial contamination and the presence of heavy metals. The foreshore areas are primarily for recreation like walking, cycling, and enjoying the views, rather than swimming.
Yes, the Glebe Foreshore Parks offer public toilets and BBQ facilities, particularly at Federal Park, making them convenient for longer visits and gatherings.
The foreshore parks are enjoyable year-round. Mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant for walks and cycling, offering beautiful light and often cooler temperatures. Weekends can be busier, especially in good weather.
For those seeking traditional natural lakes, areas further afield from Glebe within the greater Sydney region, such as Centennial Park's Lily Pond or Narrabeen Lagoon, offer more conventional lake experiences.
An ongoing oyster installation along the seawall in these areas is part of an effort to improve water quality in Blackwattle Bay, demonstrating a commitment to environmental enhancement.


Still not found your perfect lake around Glebe? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.