Poulaphouca Reservoir, Artificial reservoir in County Wicklow, Ireland.
Poulaphouca Reservoir is a large artificial lake in County Wicklow created by damming the River Liffey. The water body stretches across a broad valley bordered by woodlands and hills, with recreational areas along its shores.
Work on the dam began in 1937, with the valley flooding starting in 1940 as part of Ireland's early hydroelectric development. This project represented a major step in the country's energy infrastructure at that time.
The name comes from Irish "Poll na Phúca," referring to a mythical creature from folklore said to inhabit the original waterfall in the area. This story remains woven into how locals and visitors understand and speak about the place today.
The reservoir is accessible by road from surrounding towns and has designated viewpoints and walking trails around the shoreline. Visitors should expect changeable weather and wear sturdy footwear when exploring the walking routes.
Creating the lake required submerging entire villages and homes, with some historic buildings relocated to new sites before flooding began. This hidden history beneath the water's surface continues to shape how locals relate to the landscape.
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