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The Southern part of Lough Derg from idyllic lake to vibrant city… a fascinating holiday destination.

From the picturesque lake setting around the twin towns of Killaloe/ Ballina all the way down the banks of the lordly River Shannon to the Viking city of Limerick… Lough Derg South has much to offer the visitor.

There’s a great deal to enjoy and savour for those based in this fascinating part of the wider Lough Derg region, which extends out to a most interesting hinterland in parts of counties Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary.

Whatever your holiday interest, the southern part of Lough Derg has something special by way of appeal.

The southern section of the great Lough Derg around Killaloe and Ballina is a delight. Great scenery and natural beauty combine with plenty of opportunities for boating and other water sports.

Straddling the waterway and the county borders of Clare and Tipperary, the towns are steeped in the history, antiquity and traditions surrounding the famous High King of Ireland, Brian Boru and his O’Brien Clan as well as the bishops of Killaloe.

What fascinating countryside and riverside terrain you will experience as you venture further down the mighty River Shannon on its way to Limerick and the wider Shannon Estuary out to the Atlantic Ocean. Fine mountain ranges like Slieve Felim on the Limerick-Tipperary border and Slieve Bernagh in Clare are nearby.

Atmospheric towns and villages lie along the way in all three hinterland counties, each centre having its own charm and appeal.

This is great angling territory, with locations such as Castleconnell (Co. Limerick) and O’Brien’s Bridge in Clare being particularly famous.

Proud Limerick City stands guard over the River Shannon and, as a bustling and vibrant riverside city, offers a fascinating dimension to a stay in the Lough Derg region.

Founded by the Vikings and with a charter older than London’s, the Shannon Region’s capital can justly claim to be Europe’s ‘Riverside City’. With an impressive span of leisure, sporting, cultural, shopping, dining and entertainment facilities and attractions, the city has excellent rail, road and air links.

Of course, it’s now possible for more experienced boating enthusiasts to navigate the River Shannon from Killaloe to Limerick – see Navigating from Lough Derg to Limerick for tips on how to do so.

All through the Lough Derg South area, there are countless opportunities for interesting sightseeing, leisurely drives, great horse riding, invigorating walks, cycles and mountain climbs.Check out the links listed in this section and other parts of the website for further information.

So it’s now time to get down to planning how you will spend your time there… let the exploration begin!