Lough Derg - Discovering Ireland

Travelling to Lough Derg

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lough Derg, a pretty good destination in Ireland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lough Derg and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lough Derg, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ireland, here's everything to know about Lough Derg for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lough Derg

Lough Derg is a large freshwater lake located in the midlands of Ireland, on the border between the counties of Clare, Galway, and Tipperary. It is the third-largest lake in Ireland, covering an area of over 130 square kilometers. The lake is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. Many visitors come to Lough Derg to explore the historic monastic settlements that are scattered around its shores, as well as to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is also an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, who come to the island of Saints and Scholars to visit the holy sites associated with St. Patrick and other important saints.

What to visit in Lough Derg

1. Holy Island: Holy Island is an uninhabited island located in Lough Derg. It is a site of great religious significance as it was home to a monastic settlement founded by St. Columba in the 6th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery, including a church, round tower, and stone crosses.
2. Portumna Castle and Gardens: Portumna Castle is a 17th-century castle located in the town of Portumna. Visitors can take tours of the castle to learn about its history and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
3. Lough Derg Trail: The Lough Derg Trail is a scenic walking and cycling route that circles Lough Derg. The trail passes through picturesque towns and villages, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
4. Nenagh Castle: Nenagh Castle is a castle and museum located in the town of Nenagh. Visitors can explore the castle's history and enjoy views of the town from the tower.
5. Birr Castle: Birr Castle is a historic castle located in the town of Birr. Visitors can take tours of the castle and explore the beautiful gardens, which include the famous Birr Telescope.
6. Mountshannon: Mountshannon is a picturesque village located on the shore of Lough Derg. Visitors can take boat tours of the lake from here and explore the nearby hiking and cycling trails.
7. Lough Derg Yacht Club: The Lough Derg Yacht Club is a sailing club located in the town of Dromineer. Visitors can watch sailing races, or even take sailing lessons themselves.
8. Clare Glens: Clare Glens is a scenic wooded gorge located on the Clare River. Visitors can hike the trails and enjoy views of the waterfalls and rapids.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ireland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Lough Derg

The best time to visit Lough Derg in Ireland is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, the weather is usually mild with average temperatures ranging between 15°C to 20°C. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports which are very popular in the area. Additionally, visitors can take part in cultural and food events that are held during the summer months. However, it is important to note that the peak season can be crowded and more expensive. It is also worth considering visiting during the shoulder seasons of May and September when the weather is still pleasant and crowds are smaller.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lough Derg

Lough Derg is located in the west of Ireland and can be reached by car, bus, or train. Here are the different options to get to Lough Derg: 1. By car: Lough Derg is about a two-hour drive from Dublin and around a 40-minute drive from Limerick. There are several car rental companies with outlets at the major airports in Ireland.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from Dublin, Galway, or Limerick to Nenagh or Ballina/Killaloe, which are the nearest towns to Lough Derg. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Lough Derg.
3. By train: The nearest train station to Lough Derg is Birdhill, which is on the Limerick-Dublin line. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to get to Lough Derg.
I hope this information is helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lough Derg, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lough Derg

Lough Derg is a beautiful lake situated in Ireland and the surrounding area is known for its delicious local food. Here are some typical foods of Lough Derg: 1. Smoked salmon - This is a highly sought-after delicacy from the waters around Lough Derg. The salmon is caught fresh daily, smoked and served with a side of brown bread and butter.
2. Boxty - A traditional Irish dish, boxty is a type of potato pancake made with grated potatoes, flour, and milk. It's usually served with butter or sour cream and topped with smoked salmon or beef.
3. Irish stew - A hearty and comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Irish cuisine and is perfect for a cold day.
4. Black pudding - A type of sausage made with pig's blood, oatmeal, and spices. It's usually served as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.
5. Colcannon - This is another traditional Irish dish made with mashed potatoes and kale or cabbage. It's usually served with butter and sometimes bacon.
6. Soda bread - A type of bread that's made with baking soda instead of yeast. It's dense and slightly sweet and is often served with butter and jam.
7. Apple pie - Lough Derg is famous for its delicious apple pies, which are made with locally grown apples and topped with a buttery crumb topping. It's the perfect dessert after a hearty meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ireland here.

Is Lough Derg an expensive destination for tourists?

It depends on the type of activities and accommodation you choose. Lough Derg offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and camping sites. In general, dining out and activities such as boat tours and fishing can be costly. However, there are also many free or low-cost things to do, such as hiking, visiting historic landmarks, and exploring small towns. So, it is possible to enjoy a trip to Lough Derg without breaking the bank by carefully planning your itinerary and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Lough Derg

Lough Derg is a popular tourist destination in Ireland that is known for its stunning natural beauty. When visiting Lough Derg, it's best to find accommodation in areas that offer easy access to the lake and the surrounding attractions. Some of the best areas to find accommodation include: 1. Killaloe: This town is located on the southern end of Lough Derg and is a popular spot for water-based activities like boating and fishing. It offers numerous lodging options such as hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs.
2. Portumna: This town is situated on the northern end of Lough Derg and is home to the Portumna Castle and Gardens. Visitors can find accommodation here in B&Bs, hotels and guesthouses.
3. Ballina/Killaloe: These twin towns are situated on the River Shannon which flows from Lough Derg. They offer several options for accommodation ranging from B&Bs to hotels.
4. Dromineer: This picturesque village is located on the western shore of Lough Derg and offers a selection of B&Bs and self-catering apartments.
Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available in each of the above-mentioned areas, and visitors can choose depending on their preference and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Lough Derg here:
Booking.com

Is Lough Derg a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Lough Derg is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to take common-sense safety precautions such as keeping valuables secure, being aware of your surroundings, and following any local safety advice or rules. The area also has plenty of helpful tourist information centers and local authorities that can provide up-to-date advice on any safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ireland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lough Derg.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lough Derg the most?

Lough Derg in Ireland is an excellent destination for a variety of travelers. If you are looking for a peaceful and tranquil vacation surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, Lough Derg is the perfect place for you. It's a fantastic place for couples looking for a romantic getaway. You can enjoy walks along the lake, a private boat trip, and experience the serene beauty of nature.
Families with children will enjoy the many outdoor activities available such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and cycling. There are also local museums, cultural and historical sites to explore. Younger people looking for fun may enjoy the nightlife at the nearby towns and cities. The lively towns of Killaloe and Ballina, which share the River Shannon, offer a range of pubs and restaurants that serve traditional food and top-quality local drinks.
Overall, Lough Derg caters to all kinds of travelers, but it's ideal for those who want to enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of nature.

How to get around Lough Derg

To move around Lough Derg in Ireland, you can use various types of transportation depending on your preferences and needs. The most common modes of transportation include: 1. Car: Renting a car is a convenient option to explore the area at your own pace. The roads around Lough Derg are well-maintained, and it's easy to navigate the area.
2. Bike: Cycling is a popular way to explore the area and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Bike rentals are available in many towns around the lake.
3. Boat: You can take a cruise or rent a boat to explore the lake and its attractions from a different perspective. Boat tours are available from several towns around Lough Derg, including Killaloe, Ballina, and Dromineer.
4. Bus: Bus services operate in the area, connecting towns and villages around Lough Derg. Some services are infrequent, so it's worth checking the schedules in advance.
5. Taxi: Taxis are available in many towns around Lough Derg, and they are a convenient option if you don't want to drive or cycle. However, they can be expensive for longer journeys.

What to see around Lough Derg

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Lough Derg: 1. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park: This is a medieval castle and folk park in County Clare. You can explore the castle and learn about Irish history.
2. The Cliffs of Moher: These are some of the most stunning cliffs in the world, located on the west coast of Ireland. You can take a scenic hike and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. Galway City: This colorful city is known for its lively music scene, great food, and vibrant culture. You can stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the Spanish Arch, and enjoy a pint of Guinness at a traditional Irish pub.
4. The Burren: This unique landscape is dotted with karst limestone formations and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can hike through the rugged terrain and marvel at the stunning views.
5. Killaloe: A picturesque town situated on the River Shannon, Killaloe has a historic church and a quaint harbor. You can take a boat trip on the river, explore the local craft shops, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the charming cafes.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more information on any of these places.
For every travel information about Ireland you can click here.

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