Wild Atlantic Way

In the heart of Glengarriff, we found the Blue Pool, a tidal harbour tucked away in the woods. Formed where the river meets the sea, the pool is a beautiful rocky inlet surrounded by lush vegetation. We also walked around the little loop walk to see the best views of the local harbour.

The pool is usually blue as it gets its blue colour from light diffraction caused by tiny clay particles suspended in the water. The pool was originally a clay pit dug in the 17th century to extract blue ball clay for British pottery companies.

After it was abandoned, rainwater filled the pit in the early 19th century, creating a mesmerising colour phenomenon. The sun's rays beat down on the water, causing the molecules to absorb light from the red end of the spectrum but not the blue light. The water then reflects the blue light, giving the pool its distinctive and ever-changing hues.

The Blue Pool also has clear waters that visitors can swim in, with a designated bathing area, pontoon, and stone steps or diving board for entry. However, as you can see, the tide was out when we visited so we didn't see this beautiful sight! 🤣Read more