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Welcome to Lough Derg! Just imagine the possibilities, on and around this enchanting lake on Ireland’s River Shannon, one of Europe’s greatest rivers. The lake offers 32,000 acres (13,000 hectares) of calm, clear, uncluttered waterway – ideal for all kinds of watersports, cruising and angling. The beautiful countryside around the lake shore is perfect for walking, cycling, horse riding and other visitor pursuits.
There’s much more to do and see – great history and heritage, leisurely sightseeing, great dining, luxury breaks, wonderful music and entertainment, get up close to nature…little wonder then that it is known as Ireland’s Pleasure Lake.
Take to the Water
Lough Derg’s non-tidal waters attract watersports enthusiasts from around Ireland and abroad eager to sample the unique features and thrills of this precious waterway. You can decide to stay as long or as short on the water as you like – to hop onto a pleasure cruiser for a few hours or to spend days and weeks captaining your own cruiser, casting a line, or paddling your canoe. Venture onto the water by sail, cruiser, kayak … even with kitesurf or wakeboard – you name it and this amazing stretch of idyllic waterway won’t disappoint.
Lough Derg’s non-tidal waters attract watersports enthusiasts from around Ireland and abroad eager to sample the unique features and thrills of this precious waterway. You can decide to stay as long or as short on the water as you like – to hop onto a pleasure cruiser for a few hours or to spend days and weeks captaining your own cruiser, casting a line, or paddling your canoe. Venture onto the water by sail, cruiser, kayak … even with kitesurf or wakeboard – you name it and this amazing stretch of idyllic waterway won’t disappoint.
Wonderful Land Activities
The hinterland of Lough Derg offers great scope for imagination and exploration for the activity holiday maker. You can let your feet do the guiding, over spectacular landscapes of mountains and valleys interspersed with lakes and rivers, on any one of a number of National Looped Walks and Waymarked Ways. Or how about taking to the saddle… either on two wheels exploring some of the memorable Cycle Routes around the lake… or on horseback, as you sample some of the great equestrian centres and trails in the area. Visitors keen to experience rather more adventurous outdoor pursuits also have much to choose from. From skydiving and gorge walking to abseiling and archery… the possibilities are exciting and practically limitless.
The hinterland of Lough Derg offers great scope for imagination and exploration for the activity holiday maker. You can let your feet do the guiding, over spectacular landscapes of mountains and valleys interspersed with lakes and rivers, on any one of a number of National Looped Walks and Waymarked Ways. Or how about taking to the saddle… either on two wheels exploring some of the memorable Cycle Routes around the lake… or on horseback, as you sample some of the great equestrian centres and trails in the area. Visitors keen to experience rather more adventurous outdoor pursuits also have much to choose from. From skydiving and gorge walking to abseiling and archery… the possibilities are exciting and practically limitless.
Angler’s Dream
The lake is the perfect location for both the experienced and pleasure angler to base their fishing holiday. It offers a central, easily accessible location, unspoiled natural beauty and fish-rich waters. The lake holds huge stocks of fish, being exceedingly rich in trout and coarse species like pike and bream in the lake's depths, tench and rudd in its weedbeds. Fish can be caught both on boat and from the shore at virtually all times of the year. Many prestigious angling competitions have been held here, attracting keen anglers from all over Europe and further afield. Boat and equipment hire facilities are available from fishing centres in towns and villages around the lakeshore.
The lake is the perfect location for both the experienced and pleasure angler to base their fishing holiday. It offers a central, easily accessible location, unspoiled natural beauty and fish-rich waters. The lake holds huge stocks of fish, being exceedingly rich in trout and coarse species like pike and bream in the lake's depths, tench and rudd in its weedbeds. Fish can be caught both on boat and from the shore at virtually all times of the year. Many prestigious angling competitions have been held here, attracting keen anglers from all over Europe and further afield. Boat and equipment hire facilities are available from fishing centres in towns and villages around the lakeshore.
Rich History & Heritage
Lough Derg is very much a lake of myth and history. Its shores have been settled since prehistoric time. It occupies a strategic position on one of Ireland's oldest routes – the majestic River Shannon. Over many generations, many civilizations and many influences have left their mark on this beautiful region. In early medieval times, for instance, hermits, heroes, soldiers, raiders, students and pilgrims all travelled along this 'highway' from the Atlantic Ocean to the Irish midlands and beyond. Today, as a traveler in the modern age, you can retrace their steps and that of many other clans and peoples who have left their mark on this enchanting place. Great castles, tower houses, ancient ruins, monasteries, churches and other ecclesiastical treasures, visitor attractions and heritage centres combine to bring Ireland’s colourful past very much to life.
Lough Derg is very much a lake of myth and history. Its shores have been settled since prehistoric time. It occupies a strategic position on one of Ireland's oldest routes – the majestic River Shannon. Over many generations, many civilizations and many influences have left their mark on this beautiful region. In early medieval times, for instance, hermits, heroes, soldiers, raiders, students and pilgrims all travelled along this 'highway' from the Atlantic Ocean to the Irish midlands and beyond. Today, as a traveler in the modern age, you can retrace their steps and that of many other clans and peoples who have left their mark on this enchanting place. Great castles, tower houses, ancient ruins, monasteries, churches and other ecclesiastical treasures, visitor attractions and heritage centres combine to bring Ireland’s colourful past very much to life.
Charming Towns, Villages and Harbours
Dotted along the lakeshore are pretty quaint towns, villages and harbours, each offering a distinctive atmosphere, fine facilities and a great welcome. The twin heritage towns odf Killaloe-Ballina on the southern tip of the lake, beautiful Garrykennedy, Dromineer and Terryglass in North Tipperary, Portumna with its fine marina in Co. Galway, and inviting Mountshannon, Whitegate and Scarriff in East Clare, are but some of the delights that await. There’s great traditional music and entertainment all year round too in the many pubs, venues, theatres and other hostelries dotted around the lake shore. What better way to get close to the very heartbeat of Ireland than by sampling a ‘session’ in one of the cosy pubs around Lough Derg.
Dotted along the lakeshore are pretty quaint towns, villages and harbours, each offering a distinctive atmosphere, fine facilities and a great welcome. The twin heritage towns odf Killaloe-Ballina on the southern tip of the lake, beautiful Garrykennedy, Dromineer and Terryglass in North Tipperary, Portumna with its fine marina in Co. Galway, and inviting Mountshannon, Whitegate and Scarriff in East Clare, are but some of the delights that await. There’s great traditional music and entertainment all year round too in the many pubs, venues, theatres and other hostelries dotted around the lake shore. What better way to get close to the very heartbeat of Ireland than by sampling a ‘session’ in one of the cosy pubs around Lough Derg.
Getting Here & Around
Lough Derg is very well located at the hub of the Shannon Region and is easily reached. Shannon International Airport is only 65kms from Nenagh. Cork and Dublin Airports are also options due to the central location of Lough Derg and the excellent network of national motorways. The main ferry ports are located at Dublin, Rosslare and Cork. To get around Lough Derg, the surrounding counties of North Tipperary, Clare and Galway offer rail and bus connections and a network of uncrowded roads, convenient for the motorist or cyclist. You are also sure to find excellent accommodation to suit your needs and budget. A range of top-quality hotels, guesthouses, country homes and lodges, farmhouses, bed & breakfasts, as well as a choice of self-catering options, all extend a warm welcome and offer friendly service. See you there!
Lough Derg is very well located at the hub of the Shannon Region and is easily reached. Shannon International Airport is only 65kms from Nenagh. Cork and Dublin Airports are also options due to the central location of Lough Derg and the excellent network of national motorways. The main ferry ports are located at Dublin, Rosslare and Cork. To get around Lough Derg, the surrounding counties of North Tipperary, Clare and Galway offer rail and bus connections and a network of uncrowded roads, convenient for the motorist or cyclist. You are also sure to find excellent accommodation to suit your needs and budget. A range of top-quality hotels, guesthouses, country homes and lodges, farmhouses, bed & breakfasts, as well as a choice of self-catering options, all extend a warm welcome and offer friendly service. See you there!
Trails
Summary
Difficulty
Distance
Nenagh Medieval Food Tour
Weave your way between medieval & modern day Nenagh savouring its rich food heritage.
Weave your way between medieval & modern day Nenagh savouring its rich food heritage.
Easy
0.9 mi/
1.4 km
1.4 km
Nenagh Heritage Guide
Stroll around an historical town with a fascinating past and some mesmerising stories.
Stroll around an historical town with a fascinating past and some mesmerising stories.
Easy
1.0 mi/
1.6 km
1.6 km
Clare Glens Loop Walks
This easy forest walk journeys past waterfalls, rock pools and rapids, and presents stunning photographic opportunities
This easy forest walk journeys past waterfalls, rock pools and rapids, and presents stunning photographic opportunities
Easy
2.5 mi/
4.0 km
4.0 km
O'Briensbridge Parteen Weir Loop
This easy loop follows the Shannon River to view the historical Parteen Weir Hydro Dam, returning via the Headrace Canal
This easy loop follows the Shannon River to view the historical Parteen Weir Hydro Dam, returning via the Headrace Canal
Easy
2.9 mi/
4.7 km
4.7 km
Killaloe Historic Town Trail
Immerse yourself in the history, antiquities and traditions of Brian Ború, the O'Brien Clan and the Bishops of Killaloe
Immerse yourself in the history, antiquities and traditions of Brian Ború, the O'Brien Clan and the Bishops of Killaloe
Easy
3.4 mi/
5.5 km
5.5 km
Slí Eala Riverbank Walk
A tranquil nature walk along the Nenagh River through an area of true natural beauty and rolling Tipperary countryside
A tranquil nature walk along the Nenagh River through an area of true natural beauty and rolling Tipperary countryside
Easy
6.5 mi/
10.5 km
10.5 km
Lough Derg Cruising Trail
Take to the waters to discover the idyllic lakeshore villages and stunning scenery that surrounds Lough Derg
Take to the waters to discover the idyllic lakeshore villages and stunning scenery that surrounds Lough Derg
Easy
65 mi/
105 km
105 km
Lough Derg Drive
Explore the spectacular scenery, historic sites, visitor attractions and fascinating towns & villages around Lough Derg
Explore the spectacular scenery, historic sites, visitor attractions and fascinating towns & villages around Lough Derg
Easy
80 mi/
128 km
128 km
Knockanroe Wood Loop
This forest walk loop explores a beautiful part of Tipperary's Silvermines Mountains
This forest walk loop explores a beautiful part of Tipperary's Silvermines Mountains
Moderate
2.8 mi/
4.5 km
4.5 km
Graves of the Leinstermen
This Loop Walk follows minor roads and laneways to ascend Tountinna (459m) where breathtaking views of Lough Derg await
This Loop Walk follows minor roads and laneways to ascend Tountinna (459m) where breathtaking views of Lough Derg await
Moderate
3.5 mi/
5.7 km
5.7 km
Ballycuggeran Loop
This 5.6km loop walk ascends along forest paths to a height of 270m, offering spectacular views of Lough Derg
This 5.6km loop walk ascends along forest paths to a height of 270m, offering spectacular views of Lough Derg
Moderate
4.3 mi/
7.0 km
7.0 km
Ballycroum Loop
A magical walk in the heart of East Clare, passing by megalithic tombs, ancient tumbledown houses and mossy hazel groves
A magical walk in the heart of East Clare, passing by megalithic tombs, ancient tumbledown houses and mossy hazel groves
Moderate
4.7 mi/
7.5 km
7.5 km
Ballyhourigan Woods Loop Walk
A pleasant 9km forest loop around the shoulders of Keeper Hill, Co. Tipperary
A pleasant 9km forest loop around the shoulders of Keeper Hill, Co. Tipperary
Moderate
5.6 mi/
9.0 km
9.0 km
Cahermurphy Loop
Walk by lakeshore, riverbank & through forest and enjoy splendid views of Lough Graney and the surrounding countryside
Walk by lakeshore, riverbank & through forest and enjoy splendid views of Lough Graney and the surrounding countryside
Moderate
6.0 mi/
9.6 km
9.6 km
O'Briensbridge Loop Walks
Follow peaceful canal towpaths and river banks to discover the wonderful heritage of the old Limerick Navigation system
Follow peaceful canal towpaths and river banks to discover the wonderful heritage of the old Limerick Navigation system
Moderate
7.1 mi/
11.4 km
11.4 km
Keeper Hill Trek
Keeper Hill (694m) is the highest peak in the Shannon Region and offers majestic views of the surrounding countryside
Keeper Hill (694m) is the highest peak in the Shannon Region and offers majestic views of the surrounding countryside
Moderate
10.2 mi/
16.4 km
16.4 km
Portumna Forest Park Woodland Trails
Great lakeshore views and quiet wooded glades await discovery through 4 multi-access trails open to walkers & cyclists
Great lakeshore views and quiet wooded glades await discovery through 4 multi-access trails open to walkers & cyclists
Moderate
14.4 mi/
23 km
23 km
North Tipperary Cycle Routes: Loop 2 - Nenagh to Garrykennedy
A pleasant 30km loop which includes some of the finest scenic views of Lough Derg
A pleasant 30km loop which includes some of the finest scenic views of Lough Derg
Moderate
18.4 mi/
30 km
30 km
North Tipperary Cycle Routes: Loop 1 - Nenagh to Terryglass
Cycle the Tipperary shores of Lough Derg through charming lakeshore villages and peaceful rural countryside
Cycle the Tipperary shores of Lough Derg through charming lakeshore villages and peaceful rural countryside
Moderate
40 mi/
65 km
65 km
North Tipperary Cycle Routes: Loop 3 - Nenagh to Cloughjordan & Borrisokane
Cycle to Ireland's first eco-village in Cloughjordan on a 67km loop bringing you into the heart of rural Ireland
Cycle to Ireland's first eco-village in Cloughjordan on a 67km loop bringing you into the heart of rural Ireland
Moderate
42 mi/
67 km
67 km
Lough Derg Way
With breathtaking scenery and fascinating heritage, this is one of Ireland's greatest lakeside long distance walks
With breathtaking scenery and fascinating heritage, this is one of Ireland's greatest lakeside long distance walks
Moderate
43 mi/
69 km
69 km
Lough Derg Cycleway
What better way to experience the beautiful countryside and charming villages around Lough Derg than on two wheels!
What better way to experience the beautiful countryside and charming villages around Lough Derg than on two wheels!
Moderate
80 mi/
129 km
129 km
Guides
Explore the spectacular scenery, historic sites, visitor attractions and fascinating towns & villages around Lough Derg
Keeper Hill (694m) is the highest peak in the Shannon Region and offers majestic views of the surrounding countryside
A magical walk in the heart of East Clare, passing by megalithic tombs, ancient tumbledown houses and mossy hazel groves
Cycle the Tipperary shores of Lough Derg through charming lakeshore villages and peaceful rural countryside
With breathtaking scenery and fascinating heritage, this is one of Ireland's greatest lakeside long distance walks
Stroll around an historical town with a fascinating past and some mesmerising stories.
Weave your way between medieval & modern day Nenagh savouring its rich food heritage.
Grab a paddle and explore Lough Derg by canoe!
This easy forest walk journeys past waterfalls, rock pools and rapids, and presents stunning photographic opportunities
This forest walk loop explores a beautiful part of Tipperary's Silvermines Mountains
A pleasant 9km forest loop around the shoulders of Keeper Hill, Co. Tipperary
Great lakeshore views and quiet wooded glades await discovery through 4 multi-access trails open to walkers & cyclists
Community Trips
Following the way markers for the Slieve Felim way decend into the Mulcair river valley and over and up to the summit of Keeper Hill. A few short sessions of hike-a-bike where the trail is too steep to cycle; especially the Knockanroe Wood loop that I took in on the way back. This would be a great start to the spin if taken counter clockwise on the outward leg.
Parked up in Ballina and followed the Lough Derg Way walking trail up and over Tountinna and then Laghtea Hill, down to Castlelough for lunch and back to Ballina via the road.
Short in duration, the outward leg of this cycle is 99% uphill and a good workout when time is tight. The return back to the car park is all downhill and is just reward for making it to the top. All double track forest road.
Galway Walking Club ramble, 3rd July 2011, near Scarriff, Co. Clare.
Inspection of the MTB trails to see what needs patching up.
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