Ballynahinch Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballynahinch Lake |
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 Location in island of Ireland
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| Location | County Galway |
| Coordinates | 53°28′2″N 9°51′30″W / 53.46722°N 9.85833°W |
| Native name | Loch Bhaile na hInse Error {{native name checker}}: parameter value is malformed (help) |
| Primary inflows | Derryclare Lough |
| Primary outflows | Owenmore River |
| Catchment area | 155.23 km2 (59.9 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | Ireland |
| Max. length | 3.9 km (2.4 mi) |
| Max. width | 0.9 km (0.6 mi) |
| Surface area | 1.7 km2 (0.66 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 7 m (23 ft) |
Ballynahinch Lake (Irish: Loch Bhaile na hInse) is a beautiful freshwater lake in the west of Ireland. It is located in the amazing Connemara area of County Galway. This lake is a popular spot for nature lovers and has a rich history.
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Where is Ballynahinch Lake?
Ballynahinch Lake is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long. It is also about 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide. You can find it about 10 kilometers (6 miles) east of Clifden town. It's also about 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Galway city.
Mountains and Castles Nearby
The impressive Twelve Bens mountain range stands to the north of the lake. One of these mountains, Benlettery, looks directly over the water. On the western side of the lake, you can see the historic Ballynahinch Castle.
How Water Flows Through Ballynahinch Lake
Ballynahinch Lake gets its water from Derryclare Lough. Derryclare Lough is located at the eastern end of Ballynahinch Lake. In turn, Derryclare Lough gets its water from another nearby lake called Lough Inagh.
The Owenmore River
Water flows out of Ballynahinch Lake to the south. It leaves through a small river called the Owenmore River. This river is also sometimes called the Ballynahinch River. It's important not to confuse it with another river of the same name in County Mayo. The Owenmore River eventually flows into Bertraghboy Bay.
Animals and Nature in the Lake
Ballynahinch Lake is home to different kinds of fish. You can find salmon and brown trout swimming in its waters.
Special Area for Nature
Ballynahinch Lake is a very important place for nature. It is part of a larger area called The Twelve Bens/Garraun Complex. This whole area is a Special Area of Conservation. This means it is protected to help keep its plants and animals safe.
