Mountshannon on Lough Derg: Trails, Water and Culture

Mountshannon lies on the shore of Lough Derg, at the foot of the Slieve Aughty Mountains and in the heart of the Lough Derg Blueway. Walking trails, water activities and cultural sites give the place different sides to consider when planning your stay.

Walking Trails and Timeframes

The Derrycon Upper Loop Walk starts at the Mountshannon Hotel. The route is 6.5 kilometres long and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The Derrycon–Sellernaun Walk also starts at the Mountshannon Hotel: it is 12 kilometres long and takes approximately 3.5 hours. The two walks can therefore be distinguished by their length and approximate time required. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Another walking route runs from Mountshannon via Scariff Bay to Scariff. It is 9 kilometres long and offers views of Lough Derg and Inis Cealtra. Unlike the two walks that start at the Mountshannon Hotel, Scariff is the stated destination for this route.

Water Activities on Lough Derg

Boating, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding take place in Mountshannon’s harbour area during the summer months. The beach has a shallow bathing area; a lifeguard service is available in the bathing area during the bathing season. The seasonal periods are described differently: the water activities in the harbour are available during the summer months, while the lifeguard service operates during the bathing season.

The Mountshannon and Cloonoolia Bays paddling route starts in Mountshannon. It is 3.3 kilometres each way and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes each way. Depending on ability and fitness, it is suitable for beginners with a guide; more advanced paddlers can paddle it independently. Another relatively sheltered short paddling route runs from Mountshannon to Holy Island and is suitable for guided beginners as well as advanced paddlers. The different route details help you compare the length and type of paddling trip.

During the summer months, cruise ships dock overnight in Mountshannon harbour and visit the village. Inis Cealtra (Holy Island) can be seen from the harbour. The island is also known locally as the “Jewel of the Lough” and is one of Ireland’s most significant historical and ecclesiastical sites. One of its important historical connections is Brian Ború, the last High King of Ireland.

Aistear Park and Play Areas

The 4.5-acre Aistear Park is in the centre of Mountshannon. Its maze, made of wood, stones and plants, provides an informative way to explore Irish spirituality over 9,000 years. The park also has a designated children’s play area with swings, slides and climbing frames. An outdoor library called the “Wee Library”, along with seating and picnic areas, completes the park’s facilities.

Culture and Local History

St Caimin’s Church in Mountshannon was built in 1789; the tower and spire were added in 1830. The church is not used for services. Since 1996, the Mountshannon Arts Festival has provided a platform for local, national and international artists. Its programme includes visual art, music, theatre, literature and heritage. The festival is rooted in the lakeside community of East Clare; the dates of individual programme events vary from year to year.

Lough Derg and Nature

Lough Derg, on whose shore Mountshannon lies, is ecologically significant. Five of its habitats are listed under Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. This significance refers to the lake; it does not describe habitats within the village as a whole.

Discover more destinations: Canower, Clonlara, Cappanavarnoge, Clarecastle, Scarriff, Baunkyle, Ennistimon, Lisdoonvarna.

For the overall travel guide: County Clare.