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What to See around the South of Lough Derg

When based in this part of the Lough Derg area, there’s one thing you can be sure of and that you’ll have plenty of choice when it comes to sights and features to see. Wonderful scenery, great riverside towns and villages, a vibrant city and a rich heritage… it’s all here waiting to be discovered!

HISTORY & HERITAGE: Let’s start with Killaloe/Ballina – the magical twin towns perched on the southern tip of the lake. St. Flannan’s Cathedral offers a fascinating link to legendary figures like Brian Boru, the O’Brien Clan and, of course, the bishops of Killaloe.

Also in Killaloe/Ballina, the Brian Boru Heritage Centre provides a fascinating insight into the mighty High King that ruled Ireland from these parts a millennium ago and points the way to local sites associated with him. Watch out too for the 12th century Romanesque St Flannan’s Oratory in the grounds of the Cathedral and St Molua’s oratory.

On your way down river towards Viking Limerick, you will come across an example of Ireland’s more modern history – the pioneering Shannon Hydro-electric scheme developed at Ardnacrusha in the early years of Irish independence in the 1920s.

There’s a wealth of history and folklore to be found in ancient Limerick City, too numerous to outline in detail here. A few examples illustrate the extent and richness of what lies in store. You can experience 800 years of stirring history at 13th century King John’s Castle in the heart of the city’s Mediaeval Heritage Precinct, marvel at the unique 2,000 items of original works of art and antiquity at the fabulous Hunt Musuem at Custom House or enjoy the stunning grandeur of the Georgian House and Garden on Pery Square.

Then there’s the 12th century St Mary’s Cathedral founded by Donal Mor O Brien and the nearby Old Courthouse where one of the celebrated trials of the 19th Century took place that subsequently formed the subject of Gerald Griffin’s play, ‘The Colleen Bawn’.

GREAT SCENERY: The ingredients are there for a memorable holiday experience. Idyllic views and beautiful landscapes around the picturesque twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina on Lough Derg… Attractive riverside walks, views and countryside as the great River Shannon winds its glorious way down to Limerick past pleasant towns and villages… The spectacular riverside setting at Limerick, Europe’s Riverside City, as the city comes alive with restaurants, pubs and cafes on the banks of the great river.

The towns and villages themselves are charming and a delight to stroll through – none more so than Killaloe/Ballina with its narrow streets and ancient stone bridge. O’Brien’s Bridge, Co. Clare which is linked to its twin, Montpelier in Limerick by a 15th century stone bridge and the famed holiday resort of Castleconnell also in Limerick are others to marvel at. Also try to fit in Murroe, with its impressive 19th century Glenstal Abbey, nestling in Co. Limerick.

Add in the dramatic mountain scenery of Slieve Felim near Murroe offering views over four adjoining counties plus the many lakes and rivers that dot the countryside all around, and you have lots to choose from.

LEISURELY DRIVES: What better way to experience all this beauty than by taking a leisurely drive through the area. To help you on your way, check out a number of options at Downloads – including A Drive through Tipperary (starting point is Limerick City) and A Drive around Lough Derg – starting point in Killaloe/Ballina.

FESTIVE SPIRIT: One of the great treats while on holiday in these parts is to experience the joy and fun of the locals as they celebrate in style at festivals and events. Occasions such as the Feile Brian Boru commemorating the great High King in Killaloe/Ballina, the Limerick RiverFest and Summer Nights at King John’s Castle in the regional capital plus various literary, music and poetry events all hold out great prospects for enjoyment and entertainment for all the family.
 
SAMPLE THE ATMOSPHERE: Get to the heart of Ireland by dropping into the many fine, character-filled pubs throughout the area to meet the people, and feel the pulse of the people. Whether it’s a city centre establishment in the heart of Limerick where rugby and hurling are debated with great passion or a cosy premises in a small village where you might come across the best of Irish music and chat, there’s no better way to wind down.  See also Traditional Music and Entertainment

GREAT DINING: Dining out is also a memorable experience, with many top-quality restaurants, pubs and cafes offering tasty meals to suit all budgets and tastes – check out XXXXXXXXXX [Insert name of Dining link here] for some suggestions to explore in this part of the Lough Derg region.