St. Kevin's Pool - History and Legends!

Sit yourself down or stand yourself up for a grand story about my visit to none other than St. Kevin's Pool! It's a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Irish countryside, in County Wicklow, where history and legend collide like leprechauns at a pot of gold! 

St. Kevin's Pool is part of St. Kevin’s way, just a stone's throw away from the ancient monastic settlement of Glendalough. I have ventured the valley and lakes of Glendalough many times over the years. St.Kevin is also related to the founding of Glendalough.

Now, you might be wondering who this St. Kevin man is. He dates way back to the 6th century. Legend has it that he was a real charmer, and all the critters of the woods loved him to bits! So much so that even a blackbird built a nest in his hand while he was praying. Now, that's some divine company! 

I started the pilgrimage to the pool from a mountain road and there couldn’t be a better day for it. The greenery, the sounds, the peace, it was all heavenly. 

I passed through old stone cottage and chapel ruins and it looked like something out of the West of Ireland.

Then after an hour I could see the sparkle of water in the sunlight, and as I got nearer, the sounds of the lively stream.

The pool itself is a natural beauty, crystal clear waters tucked away in the Wicklow Mountains. They say it's fed by a mighty waterfall, adding to the magical aura of the place. Mind you, the waters are a tad chilly, but did I jump in for a swim? No! But I did paddle in it just to really connect with it. I even drank a bit of the water to see would it do me any good. 

As I dipped my toes in the pool, the echoes of history whispered through the wind. St. Kevin, they say, used to take his icy baths here. But it wasn't just for a bit of fun. He was deep in meditation, finding peace in the midst of the rugged landscape.

St. Kevin's Pool was also said to be a place for penance and prayer. Many a faithful soul took a plunge to cleanse their sins.

St. Kevin's Pool has its share of myths and legends too. One tale that's stuck with me is about a mysterious fish that lived in the pool. They say it was as big as a horse, and if you caught it, your greatest wish would be granted! Many tried, but that fish had the luck of the Irish on its side, for it never let itself be caught.

So, there you have it - a tale of history, legend, and a good dose of the Irish countryside all rolled into one visit to St. Kevin's Pool. If you're looking for a place to ponder, reflect, or just have a splashing good time, make your way to this hidden gem in the Wicklow Mountains.

Maybe, you'll be the one to finally catch that fish!

Sláinte! 🍻

Aidan