Shannon – right at the heart of Ireland

Meandering its way through the heart of Ireland, the majestic River Shannon and surrounding counties are a pleasure to explore

Grand Canal, County Offaly
Roscrea Round Tower
King John's Castle
The Cliffs of Moher

From left to right: Grand Canal, Roscrea Round Tower, King John's Castle, The Cliffs of Moher

The longest river in Ireland, the Shannon takes its name from the Goddess Sionna. Fromthe Cuilcagh Mountain in County Cavan, the flowing waters becomes a magnificent river extending southwards for no less than 240 miles until it meets the salty waters of the Atlantic Ocean at Limerick City.

Spectacular Shannon scenery

The breathtaking vistas around Ireland's Shannon region are plentiful, and its glistening surface provides an idyllic backdrop to the many counties it winds through. From the pristine beaches of County Clare and the sparkling tranquility of Lough Derg adjoined to counties Galway, Tipperary and Clare, to the fascinting flora and fauna of the Burren and the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, the Shannon region seems acutely aware of its outstanding natural beauty.

With such natural beauty, Ireland’s Shannon region overflows with opportunities to venture out into the great outdoors. From cruising down the river itself and angling along its waterways, to hiking across the Slieve Bloom Mountains or island hopping around the Aran Islands, the scenic views will keep you enthralled.

Shannon Activities

With such natural beauty, Ireland's Shannon region overflows with opportunities to venture out into the great outdoors. From cruising down the river itself and angling along its waterways, to hiking across the Slieve Bloom Mountains or island hopping around the Aran Islands, the scenic views will keep you enthralled.

Discover history and heritage in the Shannon region

Surrounding the Shannon, you’ll find a range of places to visit. Some hark back to Ireland’s history and heritage, such as Holy Cross Abbey in Tipperary, while others like Bunratty Folk Park and the Craggaunowen Bronze-Age Project recreate the lifestyles of the region’s ancestors – all are marvellous places to visit on your trip to the Shannon.

Shannon Accommodation

Not many destinations are lucky enough to be in sight of such a majestic waterway, and hotels in Ireland, B&Bs and guesthouses benefit greatly from this naturally beautiful backdrop. And with our partners offering superb deals, you’re guaranteed to find amazingly low prices on offer around the Shannon! There’s really no time like the present to just follow the flow of the Shannon – wherever it takes you.

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Did you know?

Limerick’s King John’s Castle lies on the edge of the River Shannon, and marks the remains of a Viking settlement. It also bore the brunt of the Siege of Limerick – the first of five sieges on the city during the 17th century.