Magical Moments on Lough Key: Witnessing the 2025 Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships from the Water

There’s something truly enchanting about gliding across the serene waters of Lough Key while the sky above transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. This past week, during the 53rd Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships held from September 20th to 26th in Boyle, County Roscommon, I had the privilege of experiencing this magic firsthand.  Hosted at Lough Key Forest Park, the event brought together over 50 balloonists, turning the heavens into a whimsical spectacle that perfectly complemented the lake’s natural beauty.  If you’re seeking an unforgettable Lough Key boat trip or tips on enjoying Ireland’s hot air balloon festivals, this post is your guide to the wonder I encountered.

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Why Lough Key is the Perfect Backdrop for Aerial Magic

Nestled in the heart of County Roscommon, Lough Key spans about 10 kilometers and is dotted with over 30 islands, ancient woodlands, and hidden coves.  It’s a haven for water enthusiasts, whether you’re kayaking, boating, or simply drifting in a rented vessel from Boyle.

The lake’s glassy surface reflects the surrounding hills and forests, creating a mirror-like world that’s amplified during events like the championships.

My adventure began at dawn, as I set out on a small boat to soak in the tranquility. Little did I know, the balloon launches would elevate this peaceful outing into something out of a fairy tale. The energy was palpable—propane burners roaring to life on the shores, balloons inflating like rising giants. From the water, it felt like being in the midst of a living painting, where earth, water, and sky converged in harmony.

Top Tips for Your Lough Key Water Adventure

To make the most of your time on the lake during such events:

• Boat Rentals: Head to Lough Key Boat Tours or Opt for a row boat to explore at your own pace.
• Fishing Boat Rentals: Contact us Click here to contact for fishing boat rental
• Essentials: Life jackets, sunscreen, and a picnic— the lake’s picnic spots on islands add to the charm. Pro tip: Check the Inland Fisheries Ireland for any permits if combining with light angling, but remember, the real catch here is the scenery.

The Magic Unveiled: What You’ll See While on the Water

What made this experience so magical? The seamless blend of the championships’ aerial drama with Lough Key’s earthly wonders. As balloons lifted off from the forest park, their vibrant hues—reds, blues, and golds—contrasted against the misty Roscommon landscape, creating a sense of otherworldly joy. It was as if the sky was celebrating the lake below, with each balloon a floating lantern guiding your gaze.

From my boat, the views were nothing short of breathtaking:

• Dawn Spectacles: As the sun rose over ancient oaks, balloons inflated with a symphony of whooshes, casting long shadows that danced across the ripples. Herons stood sentinel on the shores, while swans glided nearby, unfazed by the colorful invaders above.
• Sunset Enchantment: As the day wound down, the sky erupted in fiery oranges and pinks, with balloons silhouetted like mythical creatures. It evoked old Irish tales of fairies and ancient spirits, making each moment on the water feel timeless and profound.

This fusion created pure magic—one afternoon, a balloon skimmed so close to the treetops that its shadow rippled across my boat, stirring a gentle wake. It was a reminder of how events like the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships turn ordinary outings into lifelong memories.

A Quirky Lakeside Tale: King Billy the Goat of McDermott’s Castle

No story of Lough Key would be complete without mentioning its eccentric residents, and topping the list is King Billy the Goat, the self-appointed ruler of McDermott’s Castle. This 16th-century tower house, perched on Castle Island in the lake’s southeast, stands as a romantic ruin once belonging to the powerful McDermott clan.

Accessible by boat or a forest trail, it’s a highlight for any water explorer.

King Billy, a hardy billy goat with a flowing beard as wild as Ireland’s winds, has made the castle his domain for years. Legend has it he wandered onto the island during a storm, finding refuge among the ivy-covered walls, and decided to stay. He patrols the grounds with kingly poise, munching on grass and occasionally posing for photos from afar.

During my trip, as I anchored near the castle amid the balloon festivities, I spotted him atop a crumbling turret, framed against a soaring balloon. With a mighty bleat that echoed across the water—like a royal proclamation—he bounded down to the shore, curiously eyeing my boat as if assessing a new subject.

Was it the colorful spectacle in the sky that drew him out, or just his daily routine? Either way, watching King Billy “reign” over the ruins while balloons floated by felt like stepping into a whimsical Irish folktale. He’s proof that Lough Key’s magic extends to its four-legged inhabitants.

Fun fact: If you spot King Billy, offer a carrot from a safe distance—he’s earned his quirky crown!

Wrapping Up Your Lough Key Magical Escape

The 2025 Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships may have concluded, but the enchantment they brought to Lough Key lingers in every ripple and memory.  Whether you’re drawn by the balloons, the wildlife, or tales like King Billy’s, being on the water here is an adventure that nourishes the spirit. Plan your visit to Lough Key Forest Park for future events, rent a boat in Boyle, and let the magic unfold.