Colm's Guidebook
Food Scene
One of the best ways to experience the magic of Lough Derg is to visit the beautiful hamlet of Garrykennedy. This quaint Irish village is a firm favourite for many visitors to the lake and it isn’t difficult to see why.
The famous Larkins Thatched Bar & Restaurant is a multi award wining venue regularly attracts visitors from all over Ireland and is a very popular destination for food, music and culture. A trip to Larkins is certainly recommended when visiting this part of the Shannon and a great time is guaranteed.
The relaxing atmosphere of the village makes for the perfect atmosphere for a family day at the lakeside, while the wooded trails that hug the shoreline are perfect for a leisurely wander in nature. Then of course there’s the craic you’ll find the famous pub in the village Ciss Ryan’s.
Within the harbour you will find a pretty park dotted with picnic areas and barbecue facilities. There is a playground for the children and pony rides can be arranged from Newtown, located ten minutes away. There are endless opportunities for fun at Garrykennedy!
Whatever your reason for visiting, you are sure to fall in love and return many times.
Top Tip: Keep an eye out for the White-tailed Sea Eagle, who has been spotted in the region.
19 locals recommend
Garrykennedy
One of the best ways to experience the magic of Lough Derg is to visit the beautiful hamlet of Garrykennedy. This quaint Irish village is a firm favourite for many visitors to the lake and it isn’t difficult to see why.
The famous Larkins Thatched Bar & Restaurant is a multi award wining venue regularly attracts visitors from all over Ireland and is a very popular destination for food, music and culture. A trip to Larkins is certainly recommended when visiting this part of the Shannon and a great time is guaranteed.
The relaxing atmosphere of the village makes for the perfect atmosphere for a family day at the lakeside, while the wooded trails that hug the shoreline are perfect for a leisurely wander in nature. Then of course there’s the craic you’ll find the famous pub in the village Ciss Ryan’s.
Within the harbour you will find a pretty park dotted with picnic areas and barbecue facilities. There is a playground for the children and pony rides can be arranged from Newtown, located ten minutes away. There are endless opportunities for fun at Garrykennedy!
Whatever your reason for visiting, you are sure to fall in love and return many times.
Top Tip: Keep an eye out for the White-tailed Sea Eagle, who has been spotted in the region.
Ballina
Sightseeing
Tountinna meaning the hill of the waves – rumour has it, when the great floods came the only people survived were up on this hill – this is an indication as to how high the summit is, but again there is no pleasure without the pain.
Park at the graves of the Leinstermen, the walk begins here. The views from the top are a real treat- you can expect to see the whole Lough Derg valley with views extending from Galway to Kerry and all the villages in between and of course the mighty Lough Derg.
Description
Distance – 6km
Estimated Time – 1.5hrs – 2 hrs
Grade – Moderate to Difficult
Minimum Gear – Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks and mobile phone.
Services – Portroe (3km)
7 locals recommend
Graves of the Leinstermen
Tountinna meaning the hill of the waves – rumour has it, when the great floods came the only people survived were up on this hill – this is an indication as to how high the summit is, but again there is no pleasure without the pain.
Park at the graves of the Leinstermen, the walk begins here. The views from the top are a real treat- you can expect to see the whole Lough Derg valley with views extending from Galway to Kerry and all the villages in between and of course the mighty Lough Derg.
Description
Distance – 6km
Estimated Time – 1.5hrs – 2 hrs
Grade – Moderate to Difficult
Minimum Gear – Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks and mobile phone.
Services – Portroe (3km)