adventure guide in the shannon region

CLARE LIMERICK NORTH TIPPERARY SOUTH OFFALY

Activities &Adventure Guidefor Ireland’s Shannon Region

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Contents:

Introduction 01

Activities:

adventure 04water based 12angling 20cycling 28equestrian 32golf 40walking 48special interest 54

Shannon Region Map 18-19

For great activity and adventure breaksvisit www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

Shannon Region Tourist Information Offices:

• Limerick City Centre

Arthur’s Quay t: +353 61 317522e: [email protected]

• Ennis, Co. Clare

Arthur’s Row (off O’Connell Street) – in the Clare Museum t: +353 65 6828366e: [email protected]

• Shannon Airport, Co. Clare

Arrivals Hall, t: +353 61 471664e: [email protected]

• Adare, Co. Limerick

Heritage Centre, Main Street, t: +353 61 396255e: [email protected]

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Adventure andActivity Holidays in Ireland’s Shannon Region

The Shannon Region lies at the heart of the beautiful West of Ireland. This region of many contrasts offers aparticularly diverse and exceptional tourism experience,ranging from wild scenic landscapes, unspoiltcountryside, a wealth of historic/cultural attractions, toseaside resorts with beautiful sandy beaches, a ruggedAtlantic coastline, a floral kingdom, the majestic RiverShannon – one of Europe’s great waterways, bustlingrural towns and villages, and a variety of culinary experiences.

The Shannon Region is the ideal destination to get awayfrom it all and enjoy a great outdoor holiday experience.The geography of the area and its amazing diversity oflandscapes, its Atlantic seacoast, numerous rivers andgreat lakes, are ideally suited for the outdoor enthusiastlooking for a holiday which is active and varied.

The Shannon Region is dominated by water and isparticularly suited to watersports enthusiasts. The RiverShannon and its largest lake ‘Lough Derg’ are amongEurope’s most popular watersports venues, and theAtlantic seacoast is a divers underwater wonderland.

A vast network of quiet country lanes, forest paths andmountain trails, along the Slieve Bloom Mountains orthrough the Burren’s great expanses of glaciatedlimestone, and fresh air are perfect for those who want torelax and enjoy nature at its best, on foot or by bike.

This booklet features information on walking, cycling,angling, equestrian, golf, watersports, and adventurecentres which offer a wide range of outdoor activityholiday options in Ireland’s Shannon Region. It gives you aflavour of what the region has to offer to the outdoorenthusiast and adventure seeker. Contact details forspecialist operators are featured in this booklet to helpyou plan your outdoor holiday!

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Ireland is very much a sporting activity country, where one cansail, canoe, climb, hill-walk, bike, windsurf and scuba dive inwonderful surroundings. There are a number of approvedoutdoor adventure centres in the Shannon Region, catering fora wide variety of land and water based adventure/watersportactivity options for all levels of experience. Accommodationvaries from residential centres with bunk-style dormitoryhostels to using local hotels and guesthouses.

adventure

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Lough Derg, Ireland’s pleasure lake, is the largest lake onthe River Shannon (32,000 acres). The lake is a watersportsparadise and it is a well established venue for all kinds ofboating, cruising, yachting, sailing, windsurfing, skiing and angling.

For further information on adventure breaks visit:

www.ShannonRegionTrails.iewww.DiscoverIreland.ie/ShannonRegionwww.ShortbreaksIreland.ie

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Useful Contacts: Adventure

Clare

Born 2 RideLahinch, Co. Clare.Discover the excitement of Kitesurfing in a safe environment

t: +353 87 6826854 w: www.born2ride.net

Burren Outdoor Education CentreTurlough, Bellharbour, Co. Clare.Offering caving, canoeing, sailing, orienteering, rock climbing, hill walking and much more.

t: +353 65 7078066 f: +353 65 7078195 e: [email protected] w: www.oec.ie/burren

Burren Adventures Ltd at Ballyvaughan & Doolin“Sunfish”, Aughinish, C/O Kinvara PO, Co. Galway. Discover the excitement of Scuba Diving.

t: +353 65 7078914 f: +353 65 7078914 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenadventures.com

Clare Leisure World Showgrounds Road, Ennis, Co Clare.Bowling, Quasar, tumble towers, video pursuits and much more.

t: +353 65 6866777 w: www.leisureworld.ie

Dromoland Clay Pigeon ShootingClay Pigeon shooting year-round, using international sporting traps for groups or individuals.

t: +353 61 368212 f: +353 61 368212 m: +353 87 2534955

Irish Golf & Activity HolidaysCarhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co Clare.Offering customised packages for individuals and groups to include a variety of activities.

t: +353 61 366999 f: +353 61 366991e: [email protected]: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Kilkee Diving and Watersports CentreEast End, Kilkee, Co. Clare.Fully equipped centre with the most modern equipment.

t: +353 65 9056707 f: +353 65 9056020 e: [email protected] w: www.diveireland.com

Lakeside Watersports CentreMountshannon, Co. Clare.Offers a range of activities including, rowing boats, kayaks & canoes. All these are for hire at daily or weekly rates.

t: +353 61 927225 f: +353 61 927336 e: [email protected]: www.lakesideireland.com

Lough Derg School of AdventureLough Derg Holiday Village, Killaloe, Co. Clare.Kayaking, canadian canoeing, raft building, team challenges,water safety and orienteering.

t: +353 85 1343569 e: [email protected]: www.loughdergschoolofadventure.com

Nevsail WatersportsThe Promenade, Kilkee, Co. Clare.Training courses in sailing, windsurfing, powerboating,kayaking and canoeing.

t: +353 86 3308236 e: [email protected] w: www.nevsailwatersports.com

Nigel Callender Rock Climbing AdventuresProvides an exhilarating way to explore the Burren. Rock climbing for Beginners, team building and adventurerace training.

t: +353 86 8412928w: www.nigelcallender.com

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Clare

Orbital WindsLahinch, Co. Clare.Offering a range of Kitesurfing courses.

t: +353 87 0659338 f: +353 61 375137 e: [email protected] w: www.orbitalwinds.com

University of Limerick Activity CentreTwo Mile Gate, Killaloe, Co. Clare.The perfect location for all your outdoor adventure needs.

t: +353 61 376622 f: +353 61 375137 e: [email protected] w: www.ulac.ie

Limerick City and County

Limerick Wake & SkiCastleconnell, Co Limerick.Wakeboarding for extreme watersports enthusiasts.

t: +353 87 7868689e: [email protected]: www.limerickwakeandski.com

Abbeyfeale Karting CentreMountmahon, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick.The largest karting track in Munster.

t: +353 68 51829 e: [email protected]: www.abbeyfealekarting.com

Ballyhoura OrienteeringBallyhoura Failte Ltd, Main Street, Kilfinane, Co Limerick.Go quad biking, absailing, windsurfing, rock climbing,walking or bird-watching.

t: +353 63 91300 f: +353 63 91330e: [email protected]: www.ballyhouracountry.com

Combat ZoneCombat Zone, Shanagolden, Co. Limerick.Paintballing in over twenty acres of natural woodland.

t: +353 61 302031 e: : [email protected]: www.combatzone.ie


Kilfinane Outdoor Education CentreKilfinane, Co. Limerick.Canoeing, kayaking, surfing trips, hill-walking, rock climbing,mountain biking, abseiling, indoor climbing wall, orienteering,team challenges and much more.

t: +353 63 91161 f: +353 63 91201e: [email protected]: www.kilfinaneoec.com

Kilkornan KartingKilcornan, Co. LimerickThe ultimate karting experience.

t: +353 61 393728e: [email protected]: www.LimerickKarting.com

Fun WorldEnnis Road, Limerick.Family entertainment centre offering, bowling, arcadeamusements & kids play area.

t: +353 61 325088e: [email protected]: www.funworld.ie

University ArenaUniversity of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick.For the basic beginner to the Olympic champion. Exceptional outdoor and indoor facilities.

t: +353 61 213555 e: [email protected]: www.universityarena.com

South Offaly

Birr Outdoor Education CentreRoscrea Road, Birr, Co Offaly.Offering a range of watersports and dry land education courses.

t: +353 57 9120029 f: +353 57 9121090 e: [email protected] w: www.oec.ie/birr/locat.html

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South Offaly

Birr Battlefield SportBirr Equestrian Centre, Kingsborough House, Fortel, Birr.Laser Gun Game - You have played Xbox, Playstation andNintendo games, and now it is time to LIVE them!

t: :+353 57 91 21961 m: 087 2445545e: [email protected]

Just Having FunShinrone, Birr, Co Offaly.Just having fun- must be the wackiest and funniest activityprovider. Wheelie bin racing, 4x4 robots, duck racing, will giveyou some idea of the whacky twist; they put on – FunAdventure. And it’s suitable for all weather.

t: 086 2395100e: [email protected]: www.justhavingfun.ie

Sports Rec IrelandBirr, Co. Offaly.Offers the ultimate training for team building weekends. A number of venues and activities are available.

t: +353 9122331 m: 1850 940 222 e: [email protected]: www.sportsrecireland.com

North Tipperary

Skydive IrelandThe Airfield, Nenagh, Co Tipperary.Experience the ultimate adventure of free-falling through thesky at 200 km/h.

t: +353 1 4430550 or 1850 940 222 e: [email protected] w: www.skydiveireland.ie

Xtreme CartingDunkerrin, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.Ireland’s newest and most exciting outdoor go karting track.Voted Ireland's best outdoor track in 2008. Ideal for a funfamily day out or to race head to head against your friends.Corporate events and team building days catered for.

t: +353 505 45903e: [email protected] w: www.xtremekarting.ie

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7wonders adshortbreaks.ie logotourist offices

DISCOVER

of Ireland’s Shannon Region

the

WONDERSCLARE LIMERICK NORTH TIPPERARY SOUTH OFFALY

Shannon Region Tourist

Information Offices:

Limerick City Centre t: +353 61 317522Ennis, Co. Clare t: +353 65 6828366Shannon Airport, Co. Clare t: +353 61 471664Adare, Co. Limerick t: +353 61 396255

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water based activities You can hire and captain your own fully equipped andbeautifully furnished luxury cruiser on the Shannon and LoughDerg or the call of the ocean may bring you to Kilrush Marinasituated in a busy yachting harbour and a great base to explorethe Atlantic coast.

There are many sub-aqua clubs in the region and the DoolinActivity Centre on the Atlantic coast caters for both diving and caving.

(also see adventure section)

For further information visit:

www.ShannonRegionTrails.iewww.DiscoverIreland.ie/ShannonRegionwww.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

The scope for water sports is unlimited. Canoeing, wind-surfingand sailing enthusiasts find bases at Limerick, Killaloe,Portumna and Banagher with access to the broad RiverShannon and the immense, island-studded Lough Derg.Between Limerick and Killaloe, the Shannon offers a choice ofcalm water or exciting rapids. Dromineer and Mountshannonare famous for their yacht clubs. Lahinch, with its bay openingto the untamed Atlantic is a great centre for surfing, home tothe massive wave Aill na Serracht, considered by surfersworldwide to be one of the most perfect! For the beginner thereare plenty of surf schools in Lahinch to help you find your feetand all ages are welcome.

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Useful Contacts: Water Based Activities

Cruising: Clare

O’Callaghan Angling & CruisingLiscannor, Co. Clare.Caters for anglers, cruisers, divers, surf riders,photographers, ornithologists, dolphin and whale -watchers,just to mention a few.

t: +353 65 6821374 f: +353 65 6848870 e: [email protected]: www.ocallaghanangling.com

Cliffs of Moher & Aran CruisesDoolin Pier and Liscannor Pier, Co. Clare.Offer daily sailings (April to October) to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin pier in Co. Clare.

t: +353 65 7075949 or +353 87 2453239 e: [email protected] w: www.mohercruises.com

Shannon Castle LineWilliamstown Harbour, Whitegate, Clare.A family run fleet of modern, self-drive 2-8 berth motorcruisers fitted out to the highest standards. No previousboating experience necessary.

t: +353 61 927042 f: +353 61 927426 e: [email protected] w: www.shannoncruisers.com

The Spirit of KillaloeAbbey St, Killaloe, Co. Clare.A luxury 50-seater passenger boat, providing a detailedcommentary on all the historical sites as you cruise pastshores of Lough Derg. Catering facilities available on board.

t: +353 86 8140559 f: +353 61 376691 e: [email protected]: www.killaloe.ie/thespiritofkillaloe

Cruising: South Offaly

Carrick Craft CruisingThe Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly.Ireland's largest privately owned cruiser companies with two Marinas on the Shannon and one on the Erne, offeringweekly hires or short-breaks on their extensive fleet of 2 to 8 berth cruisers.

t: +353 57 91 51000 f: +353 57 91 51672e: [email protected] w: www.cruise-ireland.com

Shannon Adventure Canoeing Holidays The Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Enjoy a relaxing canoeing holiday on the magnificent River Shannon. Cooking, camping and safety equipmentprovided. Sleeping bags are not supplied. Courses areavailable on request.

t: +353 57 9151411 f: +353 57 9151411 e: [email protected] w: www.iol.ie/~advcanoe/index.html

Silverline CruisersThe Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly.This company operates a fleet of 2-12 berth charter cruiserson the River Shannon. Short breaks available. They also caterfor school tours, groups with their 54-seater passenger boat.

t: +353 57 91 51112 f: +353 57 91 51632e: [email protected]: www.silverlinecruisers.com

Cruising: North Tipperary

Shannon SailingNenagh, Dromineer, Co. Tipperary.Sail in their new fleet of Tirion 6 meter keelboats. Noexperience needed. Skipper available. Yacht cruises forfamilies and small groups. Junior and adult sail trainingcourses throughout the summer.

t: +353 67 24499 f: +353 67 33488e: [email protected]: www.shannonsailing.com

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Cruising: North Tipperary

The KU-EE-TUCalista, Dromineer, Co Tipperary.A fifty-three seat water bus which departs from the NewHarbour in Dromineer to explore Lough Derg. Group outingswelcome. Live music, parties and food can be arranged. Yachtsand small cruisers for hire.

t: +353 67 24295 or +353 87 2142363 f: +353 67 23488

Dolphin Watching: Clare

Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt Carrigaholt, Loop Head Peninsula, Co. Clare.Dolphin & Nature Boat Trips at the Mouth of the Shannon.Resident group of bottlenose dolphins; also, sea birds, seals,feral goats, dramatic cliffs, caves, historic ruins.

t: +353 65 9058156 e: [email protected] w: www.dolphinwatch.ie

Dolphin Watching on the ShannonDolphin Watching on the Shannon, Kilrush, Co. Clare.Discover the magic of the Shannon Dolphins from Ireland'snewest and largest dolphin watching cruise vessel "DolphinDiscovery" from Kilrush Marina.

t: +353 65 9051327 f: +353 65 9051327 e: [email protected] w: www.discoverdolphins.ie

Power Boating: Limerick

RIB ToursKillard, Ardagh, Co. LimerickProvide a variety of tours including Foynes Island, ShannonEstuary, Historical and Wildlife Tours. Tailored private andcommercial trips are also available.

t: +353 86 8140833e: [email protected]: www.ribtours.ie

Surfing: Clare

Lahinch Surf SchoolBallyfaudeen, Lahinch, Co. Clare.Learn to surf with Irish Surfing Champion John McCarthy'sLahinch Surf School. Tuition available for adults and children.All equipment provided.

t: +353 87 9609667 e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchsurfschool.com

Ben’s Surf Clinic Lahinch, Co. Clare.Mobile coaching unit which can set up and run clinicsanywhere there are decent waves. Surfers must provide theirown surfing equipment; some available for hire.

t: +353 86 8668622 e: [email protected]: www.benssurfclinic.com

Aloha Surf School4 RHO, Fanore, Co. Clare.Offer surfing lessons to all age groups. No experiencenecessary and all equipment is provided. Aloha Surf School isapproved by the Irish Surfing Association.

t: +353 87 2133996 e: [email protected] w: www.surfschool.tv

Ocean Scene Surf SchoolChurch Street, Lahinch, Co. Clare.Ocean Scene offer one off lessons or three or five day courses.All instructors are fully qualified.

t: +353 65 7081108 or +353 86 8120400 e: [email protected] w: www.oceanscene.ie

Orbital Winds Lahinch, Co. Clare.Offer a range of kite-surfing courses. All instructors are allIKO certified. Courses range from private lessons to fullpackages designed to teach a complete beginner.

t: +353 87 0659338 e: [email protected] w: www.orbitalwinds.com

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Waterparks: Clare

Kilkee WaterworldKilkee, Co. Clare.Offering a range of facilities including Tommy Turtles Pool for children, the Lazy River, Bubbles and Currents and much more.

t: +353 65 9056855 f: +353 65 9056475

Lahinch Seaworld & Leisure CentreThe Promenade, Lahinch, Co Clare.The “ultimate” leisure and activity location. Visit Atlantic Aquarium, Sammy Shark’s Playzone andNeptune’s retail store.

t: +353 65 7081900 f: +353 65 7081901 w: www.lahinchseaworld.com

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The Shannon Region

Map & Road Guide

The Shannon Region:

• Clare• Limerick• North Tipperary• South Offaly

See below for a more

detailed map of the

Shannon Region.

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If the thought of fishing for hard-fighting, wild salmon, trout,pike, bream, tench, roach, rudd, perch and dace in beautifullyscenic surroundings, appeals to you, then a great adventureawaits. Throughout the Shannon Region all the ingredients for agreat fishing holiday are available in abundance.

Wild Atlantic salmon are seasonal visitors to the mid and lowerreaches of the River Shannon and in its tributaries the Brosna,Fergus, Mulcair and Maigue rivers. These rivers and theirtributaries also hold stocks of brown trout. The River Shannon’slargest lake, Lough Derg, is a vast mixed fishery with a modeststock of brownies. Doonbeg River in West Clare has a good runof Salmon and sea trout while the River Suir in County Tipperaryis good brown trout water, renowned as a dry-fly fishery. The

angling

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stretch of the River Shannon at the village of Castleconnell, Co. Limerick continues to bewitch anglers with its prestigiousgame angling waters.

For further information on angling in the Shannon Region visit:

www.Shannon-Fishery-Board.ie www.ShannonRegionTrails.iewww.DiscoverIreland.ie/ShannonRegionwww.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Useful Contacts: Angling

Clare

Hillview HousePatrica Halpin, Maghera Tulla, Co. Clare.Bed & Breakfast and specialising in angling, failities include rods, drying rooms, drop and collection facility.

t: +353 65 6831927 or +353 87 1250317 e: [email protected]: www.hillviewbandb.com

Ballygreen HouseJean-Louis Bigot, Ballygreen House, Garraunboy, Killaloe, Co. Clare.Specialising in accommodating anglers for all kinds of fishing.

t: +353 61 376798 or +353 87 641 2658 e: [email protected] w: www.pecheirlande.com

Bridge View & Riverbank CottagesGeraldine Moloney, Bridge View, Drewsboro, Scarriff, Co. Clare.Self-catering accommodation; bait storage available andcoarse angling catered for.

t: +353 61 921354 e: [email protected]

Carrigaholt Sea Angling CentreLuke or Mary Aston, Carrigaholt, Co. Clare, Ireland.Great sea fishing on board a first class charter boat.Equipment for hire. Tackle shop on site. Accommodation canbe arranged.

t: +353 65 905 8209 or +353 87 636 7544 e: [email protected]: www.fishandstay.com

Clondanagh Cottage Angling CentreDorothy Landers, Tulla, Co. Clare.Bed & Breakfast specialising in angling packages. Equipment provided.

t: +353 656835429 m: +353 86 8268862 e: [email protected]: www.ClondanaghCottage.com

Derg LodgeLiam Waterstone, Derg Lodge, Mountshannon, Co. Clare.Bed & Breakfast and all types of fishing catered for.


Doon Lake View HouseNiall O’Donnell, Doon Lake View House, Broadford, Co. Clare.Bed & Breakfast, boat hire and all types of angling catered for.

t: +353 61 473125

FisHermanHerman Molenaar, Main Street, Killaloe, Co. ClareComplete packages, pike fishing, guiding, accommodation andmeals, and airport transfers

t: +353 61 374399 m: +353 87 9857491e: [email protected] w: www.FisHerman.nl

Inishlosky HousePat & Nell Aherne, Inishlosky House, O’Briensbridge, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast, boats for hire and all types of angling catered for.

t: +353 61 377240 e: [email protected]: www.inishlosky.com

Lakeside Holiday ParkThomas Bottcher, Lakeside Holiday Park, Mountshannon, Co. Clare, Ireland. Mooring facilities here provide great fishing on Lough Derg.

t: +353 61 927225 e: +353 61 927336 e: [email protected] w: www.lakesideireland.com

Lakefield LodgeMichael or Mary Cleary, Lakefield Lodge, Ennis Road, Corofin, Co. Clare.Bed & Breakfast, boats and engines for hire, and caters for alltypes of angling.

t: +353 65 6837675 or +353 87 6756465e: [email protected]: www.lakefieldlodgebandb.com

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Clare

Lough Derg Holiday CentreJeremy Mannion, Lough Derg Holiday Centre, Scariff Road, Killaloe, Co. Clare.Beautiful self-catering development. Boats, engines andguides for hire. Private harbour.

t: +353 61 376777 f: +353 61 620700 e: [email protected] w: www.loughderg.net

O’Callaghan Sea AnglingWillie O’Callaghan, Roslevan, Tulla Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.Offering excellent deep sea fishing off Ireland’s westerncoastline operating out of Liscannor.

t: +353 65 6821374 or +353 86 267 3704/+353 86 152 7755 f: +353 65 6848870 e: [email protected] w: www.ocallaghanangling.com

Scappaflow HouseAntionette Fitzgerald, Scappaflow House, O’Briensbridge, Co Clare.Bed & Breakfast; bait storage available and all kinds of angling catered for.

t: +353 61 377144w: [email protected]

Go Fishing Adventure CentreMichael Fennell, Kilbaha, Kilrush, Co. Clare.Deep sea angling charter boat from a magnificent setting onthe Loop Head peninsula.

t: +353 65 905 8174 or +353 87 697 4624 e: [email protected]: www.gofishing.ie

Shannon Cottage Country HomeDave or Anne Hyland, Shannon Cottage Country Home,O’Briensbridge, Co Clare.Bed & Breakfast with angling facilities.

t: +353 61 377118 e: [email protected]: www.shannoncottage.com


Castle Oaks House HotelCastleconnell, Co. Limerick.Angling specialist available to offer advice and make all thenecessary arrangements.

t: +353 61 377666 f: +353 61 377717 e: [email protected] w: www.castleoaks.ie

Celtic AnglingPaddy Dunworth, The Commons, Ballingarry, Limerick.Offering guided angling, heritage and hill walking tours.

t: +353 69 68202 e: [email protected] w: www.celticangling.com

Jim Robinson Angling CentreJim Robinson, 140 Oakleigh Wood, Dooradoyle, Limerick City.All kinds of angling can be arranged and expert personalguidance and tuition provided.

t: +353 87 233 9999 or +353 61 453808e: [email protected]

Millbank House & Angling CentreRichard Keays, Millbank House, Murroe, Limerick.Specialising in services for salmon, trout and pike anglers.

t: +353 61 386115 f: +353 61 386560 e: [email protected] w: www.millbankhouse.com

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North Tipperary

Abbeyvale HouseMary Flanagan-Hunt, Abbeyvale House, Holycross, Co. Tipperary.The Suir is one of Ireland’s premier brown trout rivers with good Salmon runs especially in the lower reaches.Permits arranged; advice on the local area and drying room available.

t: +353 504 43032 e: [email protected]: www.abbeyvalehouse.com

Oakpark LodgeOwen O’Carroll, Oakpark Lodge, Portland, Lorrah, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

t: +353 90 9747143 e: [email protected]: www.shannonfishing.com

Riverrun HouseTom & Lucy Sanders, Riverrun House, Terryglass, Co. Tipperary.Terryglass boasts a magnificent harbour which is only a stroll away. This area is renowned for its coarse fishing, pike,rudd and bream. Lake boats with engines available for hire for angling.

t: +353 67 22125e: [email protected] w: www.riverrun.ie

Shannon BreezeNoel Bugler, Shannon Breeze, Ballina, Co. Tipperary.Pike and trout angling packages including accommodation,boat hire, guides and fishing tackle

t: +353 61 375027 m: +353 86 3919472e: [email protected]: www.shannonbreezekillaloe.com

T J’s Angling CentreT J O’Brien, T J’s Angling Centre, Main Street, Ballina / Killaloe, Co. Tipperary.Services include bait ordering storage, Ghillie services and tackle shop.

t: +353 61 376009 or +353 87 810 8225e: [email protected] w: www.tjsangling.com

South Offaly

Ely HouseBrian & Dympna O’Carroll, Ely House, Shannonbridge Village, Co. Offaly.Bed & Breakfast; bait fridges for anglers and all types of angling catered for.

t: +353 90 9674205 e: [email protected] w: elyhouse.shannonbridge.net

Lough Boora ParklandsLeabeg, Tullamore, Co Offaly.In the parklands there are a number of activities that thevisitor can pursue from Angling, Walking & Birdwatching.There are four fishing lakes – freshwater fisheries for coarseand fly fishing.

t: +353 939145885 e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

Killeens Pub and Tackle ShopDerry Killeen, Shannonbridge, Via Athlone, Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly. Sell all fishing tackle, bait, rods, reels & accessories. Up to date fishing news available on the local website under local news.

t: +353 90 9674112 e: [email protected]: www.shannonbridge.net

Laurel Lodge FarmhouseEamonn McManus, Garrymore, Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly.Situated 1km from the River Shannon where large quantitiesof perch, bream, pike, rudd and tench can be found.Alternatively enjoy the challenge of the nearby Suck andBrosna rivers.

t: +353 909 674189 or +353 86 838 4267 f: +353 905 74993 e: [email protected]

The Old Forge TownhouseRay or Karen Duthie, The Old Forge Townhouse, West End,Banagher, Co. Offaly. Bed & Breakfast, tackle shop and the Old Forge cater for all types of angling.


Sleepy HollowPaddy or Monica Kelleher, Sleepy Hollow, Taylor’s Cross,Banagher, Co. Offaly. Bed & Breakfast, tackle and bait shopand cater for all kinds of angling


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An unbelievable network of roads is waiting to take you througha limitless variety of scenery. There are several country roadsand byways leading to seaside coves, stopping places by lakes,rivers, and to mountain tops. The variety of scenery is almostendless; lowlands with rural villages and towns, castles,historic sites and parks to visit; rugged mountain terrain with superb vantage points, and the Atlantic coastline of county Clare.

Many great cycle routes traverse the Shannon Region includingthe Burren cycleway, the dolmen cycle route, the dolphin cycleroute, the Loop Head cycleway, the West Clare cycleway, theLand of Edmund Spenser cycleway, the Lough Derg cycle wayand the Nenagh cycleway, Clare Glens Cycle, Keeper Hill Cycleand Holycross Cycle.

cycling

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Further information on these cycle routes can be found on


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Useful Contacts: Cycling

Cycling

Loop Head Adventures LtdMike Barns, Fodra, Kilbaha, Co. Clare .Offer bicycle rentals, fishing rod and snorkeling equipmentrentals. Gift shop, coffee shop & camping on site.

t: +353 65 9058875 m: +353 87 6640605e: [email protected]: www.loopheadadventures.com

Ballyhoura Mountain BikingCatherine Lynch, Ballyhoura Failte Ltd, Main Street, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick is home toIreland’s first and only mountain biking park.

t: +353 63 91300 f: +353 63 91330e: [email protected]: www.ballyhouracountry.com

Kilfinane Outdoor Education CentreKilfinane, Co. Limerick.A wide range of activities catered for including mountainbiking; courses to suit all levels.

t: +353 63 91161 f: +353 63 91201e: [email protected]: www.kilfinaneoec.com

Premier Cycling/Walking HolidaysPortland, Lorrha, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.Offer holiday programmes in the Burren rockscape, with itsincredible flora and caves & the great lakes such as LoughDerg, Ireland’s pleasure lake and lovely gardens.

t: +353 90 9747134 or +353 87 2478825 e: [email protected] w: www.premiercycling.com

Bike Hire: Clare

Burren Bike HireThe Launderette, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.t: +353 65 7077061 e: [email protected]: www.burrenbike.com

Doolin Activity LodgeDoolin, Co. Clare.t: +353 65 7074888 f: ++353 65 7074877e: [email protected]

Gleesons CyclesHenry Street, Kilrush, Co. Clare.t: +353 65 9051172 f: +353 65 9051733

Tierney Cycles17 Abbey Street, Ennis, Co. Clare.t: +353 65 6829433 f: +353 65 684346e: [email protected] w: www.ennisrentabike.com

Williams Rent a BikeCircular Road, Kilkee, Co. Claret: +353 65 9056041

Rainbow HostelDoolin Co. Claret: +353 65 7074415 e: [email protected]: www.rainbowhostel.net

Bike Hire: Limerick

Ballyhoura Cross Country Trails Bike HireKilfinane, Co. Limerickt:+353 87 2717330 e: [email protected]

Bike Hire: North Tipperary

Peter Moyan Bicycle HireCecil Way, Nenagh, Co. Tipperaryt: +353 67 31293 e: [email protected]

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Nearly all centres are open throughout the year. Many haveindoor arenas and all have outdoor exercise rings. Beyond thecentres lie miles of open country where trail riding, trekking orcross-country canters can be arranged. Whatever option youchoose - a few hours tuition or trail riding for days - justimagine the joy of the horse, like-minded company and accessto scenery known to few.

For further information on golf visit:


This is horse-riding country and you’ll find many equestriancentres both residential and non-residential in the ShannonRegion. State-of-the-art riding centres are located in the mostscenic parts of the region and offer riding on varying terrain;from forest trails, mountain paths and rolling pastureland tocountry lanes and sandy beaches, and everyone is welcome.Even those without any horse riding skills are encouraged tohave a go, safely under the watchful eye of an experiencedinstructor. And there is a horse or pony for everyone.

Some of the most beautifully scenic riding areas include theTipperary Hills, Glen of Aherlow, Galtee Mountains, the GoldenVale, the green roads of the Burren and the rugged SlieveBloom Mountains.

equestrian

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Useful Contacts: Equestrian Centres

Clare

An Sibin Equestrian Centre Whitegate, Co. Clare.This is an AIRE approved equestrian centre offering lessons to all age groups & trail rides. Residential accommodationavailable.

t: +353 61 927411 f: + 353 61 927340e: [email protected] w: www.irishhorseriding.com

Banner Equestrian CentreToonagh, Fountain, Ennis, Co. Clare.Offers horse and pony trekking, advanced and beginners ridingand jumping lessons. Private or group lessons available.Facilities include both an indoor and outdoor arena.


Castlefergus Riding StablesQuin, Co Clare.Offers daily and weekly programmes for residents includinghalf board accommodation and two hours trekking per day.Facilities include outdoor arena, cross country course,instruction and changing rooms.

t: +353 65 6825914 f: +353 65 6825914 m: + 353 87 9731145 e: [email protected]

Clare Equestrian CentreDoora, Ennis, Co. Clare.Facilities include, indoor arena, outdoor sand rings, trekkingand cross-country courses and a tack and clothing shop.Tuition for all ages and levels.

t: +353 65 6840136 or +353 65 6843607e: [email protected] w: www.clareequestrian.com

Clonlara Equestrian CentreOakfield, Clonlara, Co. Clare.Offers international size indoor and outdoor arena, full grasslivery area and tuition at all levels. Trekking, trail riding andcross-country course also available.

t: +353 61 354172 f: +353 61 354172 e: [email protected] w: www.clonlaraequestrian.com

West Clare Equestrian CentreTullabrack, Kilrush, Co. Clare.This is an AIRE approved centre offering lessons to all agegroups, trekking & summer camp. Indoor and outdoor arenafacilities on site.

t: +353 65 9059115 f: +353 65 9059115

Woodfield Equestrian CentreBroadford, Co. Clare.Situated on over 11 acres of quite countryside offering outdoorarena, tuition at all levels and trekking.

t: +353 87 2310428

Galway and Burren TrialWhitegate, Co. Clare.A six-day, seven-night post to post trail introducing the rider tothe world famous Burren region. The trail finishes overlookingthe Cliffs of Moher and Atlantic Ocean at Doolin.

t: +353 61 927411 f: +353 61 927340 e: [email protected] w: www.irishhorseriding.com


Clarina Riding CentreClarina, Co. Limerick.AIRE approved, providing lesson to all ages, pony trekking &summer camps. Outdoor and Indoor arena facilities on site.

t: +353 61 353087 or +353 87 2479965 e: [email protected]

Clonshire Equestrian and Polo CentreAdare, Co. Limerick.AIRE approved providing 5 day programme; pony camp; trailriding and trekking. Tuition available and facilities include anindoor and outdoor arena. Residential facilities available.

t: +353 61 396770 f: +353 61 396726 e: [email protected] w: www.clonshire.com

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Crecora Equestrian CentreBetteville, Crecora, Co. Limerick.Groups of 15 can be catered for at any one time where you willreceive expert tuition in an enclosed arena, or you can simplygo for a trek.

t: +353 61 355721e: [email protected]

Fitzgerald’s Farmhouse and Equestrian CentreThe Hill, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick.AIRE approved providing lessons for beginners, a challengingcross-country course for the more advanced rider andsummer camps. Residential facilities also available.

t: +353 68 31217 f: +353 68 31558 e: [email protected] w: www.fitzgeraldsfarmhouse.com

Hillcrest Equestrian CentreHillcrest House, Galbally, Co. Limerick.AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, ponytrekking and outdoor arena.

t: +353 62 37915 f: + 353 62 37915e: [email protected]: www.irishabroad.com/travel/horseriding/hillcrest

Woodview Riding CentreDually, Newcastle West, Co Limerick.Facilities include an outdoor arena and cross country course;tuition in dressage, show jumping and cross-country; Easterand summer camps.

t: +353 69 61554 or +353 86 8440536e: [email protected]

South Offaly

Birr Equestrian CentreKingsborough House, Fortal, Birr, Co. Offaly. .AIRE approved providing lessons for all age groups, trekking &pony camps. Indoor and outdoor arenas on site.

t: +353 57 91 21961 e: [email protected]: www.birrequestrian.ie

South Offaly

Cochise StudMoystown Demesne, Shannon Harbour, Birr, Co. OffalyAIRE approved, Cochise Stud’s ambition is to introduce andestablish Western inspired training and riding.

t: +353 90 6457939 or + 353 86 0830267

e: www.cochisestud.com

North Tipperary

Crossogue EquestrianBallycahill, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.AIRE approved providing magnificent cross country facilities,lessons to all age groups and summer camps. Residentialfacilities available on site.

t: +353 504 54123 f: +353 504 54166 e: [email protected] w: www.crossogue.com

Gurteen CollegeApartment 3, Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.BHS and AIRE approved, Gurteen’s facilities include indoor andoutdoor arenas, 45 stables and a cross-country course.Business in Equine Study courses also provided.

t: +353 86 3419129 w: www.gurteencollege.ie

Lough Derg Equestrian CentreBallina, Killaloe, Co. Clare.AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, ponycamps, show jumping & cross country schooling. A largefloodlit indoor arena on site.

t: +353 61 375847 or +353 86 2631361e: [email protected]

Mulcahy’s Pony Stables Ballycahane, Ballinahinch, Birdhill, Co. Tipperary.AIRE approved providing lessons to children, pony camp atweekends & outdoor arena facilities. Also available pony leadride for the younger kids.

t: +353 61 379372 or + 353 86 3576851

Nenagh Equestrian CentreThe Briary, Ballintoher, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, trekking,indoor and outdoor arena and all year round pony camps.

t: +353 86 8698885 e: [email protected] w: www.nenaghequestrian.com

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North Tipperary

O’Dwyer Equestrian CentreStradavoher, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, trekking,indoor and outdoor arena and summer pony camps.

t: +353 87 7995585

Tipperary Equestrian CentreMill Road, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, trekking,trail riding, indoor and outdoor area, and pony camps

t: +353 504 21658 f: +353 504 220 e: [email protected]

Tipperary Mountain Trekking CentreRusheen, Borrisoleigh, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.Specialising in family riding holidays in their friendlyfarmhouse, small group lessons and off-road scenic mountaintreks. Beginners and non-riders welcome.

t: +353 504 51055e: [email protected] w: www.timotrec.com

pg:38


DISCOVER


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Thanks to nature, the finest blend of links and parklandcourses in Ireland are probably in the Shannon Region. TheRegion has a wonderful mix of superb links and parklandcourses. Here you will find 25 top quality golf courses rangingfrom world-rated championship links to mature parklandcourses. Golfers can test their skills on the wind-swept dunesof a championship links, challenge the water-traps and otherhazards created by world famous designers or just play arelaxing eighteen holes on a parkland course with tree linedfairways.

On the west coast of Clare lies Lahinch, a legendary linkscourse established in 1892. The ‘Old’ Lahinch course offers aformidable challenge, in a spectacular setting. Across the road

golf

pg:40 pg:41

the Lahinch Castle Course provides a slightly less challenginglinks option. Just further south, is the Doonbeg Golf Resort,opened in 2002. This links masterpiece by Greg Norman, hasbeen developed out of such a natural habitat that you would beconvinced that it too was built in the19th century. Massivedunes stretch along a mile and a half of crescent-shapedbeach, with the Atlantic Ocean visible from almost every hole.North of Lahinch lies Spanish Point, a tricky 9-hole links,where accuracy is essential to register a good score.

For further information on golf visit:


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Useful Contacts: Golf

Clare

Clonlara Golf and Leisure ClubClonlara, Co. Clare.12 hole Par 47 parkland course, covering a distance of 3,477metres. Facilities include club hire, driving range, motorisedbuggies, and motorised caddy carts.

t: +353 61 354141 f: +353 61 354143 e: [email protected]

Doonbeg Golf ClubDoonbeg, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 72 links course with a distance of 6,296 metres.Facilities include caddy hire, practice green, pro shop, clubhire, driving range, putting green, motorised caddy carts.

t: +353 65 9055602 f: +353 65 9055247 e: [email protected] w: www.doonbeggolfclub.com

Dromoland Castle Golf and Country ClubNewmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare.18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,259metres. Facilities include caddy hire, practice bunker, practicegreen, pro shop, club hire, and motorised buggies.

t: +353 61 368444 f: +353 61 368498 e: [email protected] w: www.dromoland.ie

East Clare Golf ClubBodyke, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,400metres. Facilities include club hire, driving range, puttinggreen, caddy hire practice green, pro shop & motorisedbuggies.

t: +353 61 921322 e: [email protected]: www.eastclare.com

Ennis Golf ClubDrumbiggle Ennis, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,316metres. Facilities include caddy hire, motorised buggies and caddy carts, club hire, practice green and pro shop.

t: +353 65 6824074 f: +353 65 6841848 e: [email protected] w: www.ennisgolfclub.com

Clare

Kilkee Golf ClubEast End, Kilkee, Co. Clare.18-hole par 70 coastal course with a distance of 5,855 metres.Facilities include a pro shop, caddy, club and motorised buggy hire.

t: +353 65 9056048 f: +353 65 9056977e: [email protected] w: www.kilkeegolfclub.ie

Kilrush Golf ClubParknamoney, Kilrush, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,185metres. Facilities include club hire, motorised buggies and a club shop.

t: +353 65 9051138 f: +353 65 9052633 e: [email protected] w: www.kilrushgolfclub.com

Lahinch Golf Club – Old CourseLahinch, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 72 Links course covering a distance of 6,292 metres.

t: +353 65 7081003 f: +353 65 7081592 e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchgolf.com

Lahinch Golf Club -Castle CourseLahinch, Co. Clare.18-hole Par 70 links course with a distance of 5,594 metres.Facilities include caddy hire, practice green, pro shop, clubhire, motorised buggies and a putting green.

t: +353 65 7081003 f: +353 65 7081592 e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchgolf.com

Shannon Golf ClubShannon Airport, Co. Clare.18-hole 72 parkland championship course with a distance of6,285 metres. The club offers facilities such as caddy, cluband motorised buggy hire.

t: +353 61 471849 f: +353 61 471507 e: [email protected] w: www.shannongolfclub.ie

(All provide catering facilities)

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Clare

Spanish Point Golf ClubSpanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare.9-hole links golf course covers a distance of 1,920 metres.Facilities include club hire.

t: +353 65 7084198 e: [email protected] w: www.spanishpointgolf.com

Woodstock Golf ClubShanaway Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.18-hole par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,877metres. Facilities include caddy hire, pro shop, practice green,motorised buggies and club hire.

t: +353 65 6829463 f: +35365 6820304 e: [email protected]: www.woodstockgolfclub.com


Adare Manor Hotel & Golf ResortAdare, Co. Limerick.18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,515metres. Facilities include caddy hire, pro shop, practice green, motorised buggies and club hire.

t: +353 61 605274 f:+353 61 605271e: [email protected] w: www.adaremanor.com

Adare Manor Golf ClubAdare, Co. Limerick.18-hole parkland gem which weaves its way around historicruins, with magnificent views of the Maigue River.

t: +353 61 396204 f:+353 61 396800e: [email protected] w: www.adaremanorgolfclub.com

Abbeyfeale Golf ClubDromstrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick.9-hole parkland course of 4,072 metres, with manychallenging features. Golf tuition can be arranged byappointment and a superb driving range is available for practice. Snooker room also on site.


Castletroy Golf ClubGolf Links Road, Castletroy, Co. Limerick.18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,300metres. Facilities include pro shop, practice area, caddy, club and buggy hire.

t: +353 61 335753 f: +353 61 335373e: [email protected] w: www.castletroygolfclub.ie

Limerick County and Country ClubBallyneety, Co. Limerick.18-hole par 72 parkland championship course with a distance of 5,876 metres. Facilities include weather proofdriving range & practice area. Tuition is also available fromclub professionals.

t: +353 61 351 881 f: +353 61 351 384e: [email protected] w: www.limerickcounty.com

Limerick Golf ClubBallyclough, Limerick, Co. Limerick.18 hold par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,943metres. Facilities include, Pro shop, practice green and tuition.

t: +353 61 415146 f: +353 61 319219 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickgolfclub.ie

Newcastle West Golf ClubRathgoonan, Ardagh, Co. Limerick.18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,806metres. Facilities include an extensive practice area, covered driving range, putting green and pro shop.

t: +353 69 76500 f: +353 69 76511 e: [email protected] w: www.newcastlewestgolf.com

Rathbane Golf ClubCrossagalla, Co. Limerick.18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,671metres. Facilities include pro shop and tuition.Course being updated for 2010.

t: +353 61 313655 f: +353 61 313655e: [email protected] w: www.rathbanegolf.com

(All provide catering facilities)

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South Offaly

Birr Golf ClubThe Glenns, Birr, Co. Offaly.18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,720metres. Facilities include golf shop and driving range..

t: +353 57 9120082 f: +353 57 9122155 e: [email protected] w: www.birrgolfclub.com

North Tipperary

Nenagh Golf ClubBeechwood, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.18-hole par 72 championship course with a distance of6,000 metres. Facilities include a pro shop, practice area and putting green.

t: +353 67 31476 f: +353 67 34808e: [email protected] w: www.nenaghgolfclub.com

Roscrea Golf ClubDerryvale, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. 18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,809metres. Facilities include trolley hire.

t: +353 505 21130 f: +353 505 23410e: [email protected] w: www.roscreagolfclub.ie

Templemore Golf CourseTemplemore, Co. Tipperary.9-hole 2,710 meter course set in pleasant parkland terrain.

t: +353 504 31400 f: +353 504 35450e: [email protected]

Thurles Golf ClubTurtulla, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,911metres. Facilities include a pro shop, trolley hire, caddy cars.

t: +353 504 21983 f: +353 504 90806e: [email protected] w: www.thurlesgolfclub.com

Golf Academies/Golf Driving Ranges

Dromoland Castle Golf AcademyDromoland Castle Golf and County Club, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co Clare.

t: +353 61 368444 f: +353 61 368498e: [email protected] w: www.dromoland.ie

Abbeyfeale Golf Driving RangeDromtrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick.

t: +353 68 32033e: [email protected]

Limerick City Driving RangeCoonagh, Ennis Road, Limerick.

t: +353 61 455584

Limerick County Driving Range and Teaching FacilityBallyneety, Co. Limerick.

t: +353 61 351881 f: +353 61 351384 e: [email protected]: www.limerickcounty.com

Newcastle West Golf Club Driving RangeArdagh, Co. Limerick.

t: +353 69 76500

Unigolf ClubNational Technology Park, Castletroy, Limerick.

t: +353 61 633200 f: +353 61633634e: [email protected] w: www.unigolfclub.com

Birr Driving RangeThe Glens, Banagher Road, Birr, Co. Offaly.

t: +353 57 9121606

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Walking is truly the best way to fully absorb the beauty of theShannon Region. A network of quiet country roads and lanes,forest paths and mountain trails will take you into the heart ofbeautiful, rural countryside.

The waymarked trails in the region provide something foreveryone. Some, such as the Burren Way offer spectacular seaviews while the Ballyhoura Way and the Slieve Felim Way gothrough mountain ranges known to few Irish people, let alonetourists. The East Clare and Mid Clare Way brings you throughstunning scenery including mountains, forests and lakes. Mostof the mountains have gentle slopes and are ideal for quietrelaxation. The Lough Derg Way stretches from Limerick City toKillaloe along the banks of the River Shannon. The Offaly Waybrings you to many historic sites in the heart of Ireland’s

walking

pg:48 pg:49

midlands and the Slieve Bloom Way is an area of undiscoveredenvironmental beauty, boasting a fabulous array of flora andfauna, remarkable deep glens, rock outcrops and waterfalls.Guided walking tours can also be arranged at centresthroughout the region.

Besides the waymarked ways there are also many short tomedium distance loop walks throughout the region. Imaginepeace and tranquility far from the pressures of modern life. It’sjust a step away.

Further information on these walking routes can be found on

www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie orwww.DiscoverIreland.ie/ShannonRegionwww.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Useful Contacts: Walking

Clare

Burren Guided Walks and HikesMary Howard, Old Road, Fanore, Ballyvaughan.Ramble at a leisurely pace with Mary, who will share herknowledge and passion for the Burren.

t: +353 65 7076100 or +353 87 2446807e: [email protected]: wwwburrenguidedwalks.com

Burren Hill WalksShane Connolly, Burren Hill Walks, Corkscrew Hill,Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.Enjoy a unique walking experience and explore the Burrenwith a local guide.

t: +353 65 707168 f: +353 65 707168e: [email protected]: http://homepage.eircom.net/~burrenhillwalks/

Burren Wild Guided Walking Tours Oughtmama, Bellharbour, Co. Clare.Offering a full programme of day tours and weekend hikes.

t: +353 87 8779565e: [email protected] w: www.burrenwalks.com

Clare Walking Tours with Clareville HouseTuamgraney, Scariff, Co. Clare.Self guided walking on the East Clare Way, maps and guidebooks, transport to/from daily walks, transfer to/fromShannon Airport, clothes drying facilities. Packages catered to your needs. Contact Derek

t: +353 61 922925 e: [email protected]: clarewalkingtours.ie

Ennis Walking ToursTourist Office, Arthur’s Row, Ennis, Co Clare.Guided walking tours through the winding streets of medieval Ennis, Co. Clare.

t: +353 87 6483714 e: [email protected] w: www.enniswalkingtours.com

pg:50 pg:51

Fertile Rock Study ToursChristy Browne, Fertile Rock Study Tours, Station Road, Lahinch, Co Clare.Organised tours for groups interested in archaeology, history, folklore and flora.

t: +353 657081168 f: +353 657081168

Heart of Burren WalksCaherblonik, Kilnaboy, Co. Clare.Tony Kirby offers guided walks ranging from gentle strolls tochallenging hill walks.

t: +353 65 6827707 f: +353 65 6827707 e: [email protected] w: www.heartofburrenwalks.com

Irish Activity HolidaysCarhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co Clare.Offer customised walking package for individuals and groups.

t: +353 61 366999 or +353 61 366991 w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Limerick

Angela’s Ashes & Historical Walking ToursLimerick Tourist Office, Arthurs Quay, Limerick.Walk through Limerick City with Michael O’Donnell who will show you some of the many places that feature inAngela’s Ashes.

t: +353 61 327108 or +353 87 6353648 w: www.freewebs.com/walkingtours

Ballyhoura Failte LtdMain Street, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick.Ballyhoura Country is a walker's paradise offering spectacularwalking in ancient and unspoilt landscapes.

t: +353 63 91300 f: +353 63 91330 w: www.ballyhouracountry.com

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Useful Contacts: Walking

South Offaly

Slieve Bloom Walks Ardmore House, Kinnitty, Co. Offaly.Short breaks featuring self -guided walks or guided walks in the heart of Ireland.

t: +353 57 9137009 or +353 86 2789147 e: [email protected] w: www.kinnitty.com

Lough Boora ParklandsLeabeg, Tullamore, Co Offaly.There are 50 km of paths in the Parklands ranging in length from a short stroll to 5 km. Whether taking a closer look at theParkland’s flora and fauna, or simply taking a quiet walk,these paths are the ideal way to see the Parklands.

t: +353 939145885 or m: +353 87 9904234. e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

North Tipperary

Fairymount FarmBallingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.Offering walkers unique opportunity to spend time walking on a beautiful, award winning, and family-run working organic farm.

t: +353 67 21139 f: +353 67 21139 e: [email protected] w: www.fairymountfarm.com

Guided Bus and Walking ToursAghancon, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.Two to seven day personalised bus and walking tours in the Midlands.

t: +353 87 2763565

pg:52



DISCOVER


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special interest activitiesThe Shannon Region has manyother interesting activities for you to enjoy.

pg:54 pg:55

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Useful Contacts: Special Interest Activities

Nature And Wildlife

Birdwatch Ireland For information on bird watching in the Shannon Region visitw: www.birdwatchireland.ie

Birds of Prey at Aillwee CavesBallyvaughan, Co. Clare.Features the largest display of Falcons, Harris Hawks, Owls,American Kestrels and White Tailed Sea Eagles in the country.

e: [email protected]: www.aillweecave.ie

The Burren Burren National Park, Co. Clare.Experience the wonder of the Burren which is home to themost unusual species of Flora and Fauna.

e: [email protected]: www.burrenbeo.com

Animal Magic – Falconry and Conservation Deebert, Kilmallock, Limerick.Whether you are looking for falconry courses, natural historylectures, mini zoos, or a combination, one thing is for certain,you will have the experience of a lifetime.

t: +353 63 98777 e: [email protected] w: www.animalmagic.ie

Midland School of FalconryKinnitty Castle, Co. Offaly.Visitors have the opportunity to come and handle and flybirds of prey.

t: +353 87 6273313 e: [email protected]: www.falconryireland.com

Shannon CallowsContact Limerick Tourist Office.It has one of the largest concentrations of breeding waders inthese islands with Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew, Sandpiper andGodwit living there.

t: +353 61 317522 e: [email protected] w: www.discoverireland.ie/ShannonRegion

Cookery

Berry Lodge Cookery SchoolAnnagh, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare.A charming Victorian family home offering superbaccommodation and cookery tuition. New for 2008 – Teambuilding through cookery.

t: +353 65 7077022 f: +353 65 7087011e: [email protected] w: www.berrylodge.com

Bunratty Cookery SchoolManderley House, Deerpark, Bunratty, Co. Clare.Based in Co.Clare, Ireland, the Bunratty Cookery School offersa wide variety of courses designed to cater for every level. Allthe courses are delivered by professional chef and ownerDonnagh Gregson.

t: +353 (0)61 713500 e: [email protected]: www.bunrattycookeryschool.ie

Fiacri Country House Cookery SchoolBourerea, Knock, Roscrea, Co. TipperaryClasses run over a five week period, every Tuesday. One daycourses are run throughout the year particularly at Christmasand Easter. Classes are interactive.

t: +353 505 43017 f: +353 505 43108e: [email protected] w: www.fiacrihouse.com

Genealogy

Clare Heritage & Genealogical CentreChurch Street, Corofin, Co. Clare.Offers the largest collection of genealogical material housed in any one place to enable persons with Clare roots to tracetheir fore bearers.

t: +353 65 6837955 f: +353 65 6837540e: [email protected] w: www.clareroots.com

Limerick Genealogyc/o Lissanalta House, Dooradoyle, Co. Limerick.Provides a professional research service for those wishing tolearn about their ancestral roots in Limerick city and county.

t: +353 61 496548 f: +353 61 496542w: www.limerickgenealogy.com

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Genealogy

Offaly Historical SocietyResearch and Exhibition Centre, Bury Quay,Tullamore, Co Offaly.Provides a professional research service for those wishing tolearn about their ancestral roots in Offaly.

t: +353 57 9321421 w: www.offalyhistory.com

North Tipperary Genealogy Centre The Governors House, Nenagh, Co Tipperary.Provides a genealogical research sevice for clients whoancestors originated in North Tipperary. Research isconducted on a fee basis.

t: +353 67 33850 e: [email protected] w: www.tipperarynorth.ie/genealogy

or www.rootsireland.ie

Learning English

Clare Language CentreCollege Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.Offer short intensive, business English or long termexamination courses. You can also train as a TEFL teacher.

t: +353 65 6841681 f: +353 (0)65 6841683w: www.clarelc.ie

Holywell Language CentreNewtown, Ballyvaughan, Co Clare.A unique language centre where English is taught at variouslevels and combined with cultural and leisure activities inunusual surroundings.

t: +353 65 7077322 f: +353 65 7077323 e: [email protected] w: www.holywell.net

Limerick Language Centre16 Upper Mallow Street, Limerick.A medium sized school offering full and part time courses,including residential facilities. This college has students from4 continents representing 36 different nationalities.

t: +353 61 415292 e: [email protected] w: www.english-in-limerick.com

Language Ireland at LesseraghLesserage House, Coolbawn, Nenagh, Co. TipperaryProvides residential English training in a country setting.Courses range from beginners to English for special purposessuch as engineering, law, medicine and business.

t: +353 67 28008 e: [email protected] w: www.language-ireland.com

pg:58 pg:59

Learning English

University of Limerick Language Centre Department of Languages and Cultural Studies, University of Limerick, Limerick.Offering professionally-designed and delivered Englishlanguage courses to adults, the Centre also aims to provide afriendly and supportive environment where each participantcan work to fulfill individual needs.

t: +353 61 202775 or +353 61 202777 f: +353 61 202753 w: www.ul.ie/languagecentre

English in TipperarySouthpark , Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.Offering intensive language courses for individuals & smallgroups. Each course is tailor-made to suit the personal andprofessional requirements of the students.

t: +353 67 21105 or +353 67 28026 f: +353 67 21105 w: www.englishintipperary.com

HSI English Lanuage School3 Quinlan Streeet, The Crescent, Limerick.Specialies in the provision of career-focused English language programmes.

t: +353 61 317822 e: [email protected]: www.hsi.ie/englishlanguageschool

Kilfinane Education CentreKilfinane, Co.Limerick.This outdoor education centre provides residential Englishlanguage courses and specialises in courses for junior groups, combining English language tuition with adventuresport activities.

t: +353 63 91161 or +353 63 91059 e: [email protected]: www.kilfinanelanguage.com

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Music & Dance

Glór Irish Music CentreEnnis, Co. Clare.t: +353 65 6843103 e: [email protected] w: www.glor.ie

Belltable Arts CentreO’Connell Avenue, Limerick.t: +353 61 319866 f: +353 61 418 552e: [email protected] w: www.belltable.ie

Daghdha Dance CompanySt John's Square, Limerick City.t: +353 61 467872 f: +353 61 311144e: [email protected] w: www.daghdha.ie

LIT Millennium TheatreMoylish Park, Limerick.t: +353 61 322322 f: +353 61 331585w: www.litmt.ie

University Concert HallUniversity of Limerick, Limerick.t: +353 61 331549 f: +353 61 331585w: www.uch.ie

Fiddlers RestLoughmore Village, Templemore, Co. Tipperary.t: +353 86 8099661 e: [email protected] w: www.fiddlersretreat.com

The Source Arts TheatreCentral Cathedral Street, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.t: +353 504 90340 f: +353 504 27252w: www.thesourceartscentre.ie

Birr Theatre & Arts CentreOxmantown Hall, Birr, Co Offaly.Box Office: +353 57 9122911e: [email protected]: www.birrtheatre.com

Friars Gate Theatre & Arts Co. LtdTheatre and arts centre.t: +353 63 98727 e: [email protected] w: www.FriarsGate.ie

pg:60 pg:61

Painting & Art: Clare

Art at the ParkKillanena House, Killenana, Caher, Co. Clare.A tranquil, calm and creative environment offering weekly andweekend watercolour painting, drawing, life drawing,portraiture and botanical painting courses.

t: +353 61 925975 or +353 87 133 0040 e: [email protected]: www.artatthepark.net

Burren College of ArtNewtown Castle, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.The Burren College of Art offers graduate, undergraduate and artist residency programmes to students and artists fromaround the world.

t: +353 65 7077200 f: +353 65 7077201e: [email protected]: www.burrencollege.com

The Burren Painting CentreLisdoonvarna, Co. Clare.Offers residential tutored courses in watercolour, oil, acrylic orpastel. The emphasis is on painting landscapes or seascapes,outdoors on location.

t: +353 65 7074208 f: +353 65 7074435e: [email protected]: www.burrenpaintingcentre.com

Painting & Art: Limerick

Irish Art HolidaysKnocknadiha, Toornafulla, Co. Limerick.Residential, art, craft and culture courses at our restored andextended old Irish cottage on the edge of Mountcollins Village,County Limerick.

t: +353 69 81931e: [email protected]: irishartholidays.com

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Painting & Art: South Offaly

Bramber StudioRathcahill, Shinrone, Birr, Co. Offaly. Bramber Studio is a purpose built studio offering a range oforiginal paintings, prints and wall hangings. Painting classesfor adults of all levels of experience - or none at all - areoffered throughout the year.

t: +353 505 47025 or +353 87 2889616e: [email protected]: www.bramberstudio.com

Belmont Mill & Artists StudiosBelmont, Co Offaly.Belmont Mill and Artist Studios are set in a water mill complexwhich dates back to the 18th Century. Now it is an inspiringvenue for artists and creative people. Located adjacent to theweir on the River Brosna in the Heartland of Ireland.

t: +353 90 64 57598 e: [email protected]: www.belmontmill.com

Tin Jug StudioBrendan Street, Birr, Co. Offaly.The Tin Jug Studio offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, acreative space to eat, stay and enjoy painting and art. Thevisitor can choose from Art for Adults, Festival Workshops,Kidzart and there is an exhibition area available also. Easy tofind under the Prayer flags and behind the green doors.Contact: Rosalind Fanning.

t: +353 87 6681783 or +353 57 91 21818e: [email protected]: www.tinjugstudio.com

Spectator Sports:

Greyhound Racing

Experience the excitement of greyhound racing.

Thurles Greyhound StadiumTownspark, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.Experience the excitement of greyhound racing every Fridayand Saturday Night at one of Ireland’s leading night-timeentertainment venues. Bar and restaurant facilities available.

t: +353 504 21003 e: [email protected]: www.igb.ie/Stadia/Thurles

Spectator Sports:

Greyhound Racing

Limerick Greyhound StadiumLimerick Greyhound Racing Track Ltd., Limerick.Experience the excitement of greyhound racing at Limerick’greyhound stadium. Racing every Monday, Thursday, andSaturday from 1930hrs. Bar facilities available.

t: +353 61 214604 f: +353 61 214611 w: www.igb.ie/Stadia/Limerick

Horse Racing

Limerick RacecourseLimerick Racecourse, Greenmount, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick.

t: +35361 320000e: [email protected] w: www.LimerickRaces.ie

Thurles RacecourseThurles, Co Tipperary.

t: +353 504 22253 t: +353 504 24565 e: [email protected] w: www.thurlesraces.ie

Rugby

Limerick is famous for its wonderful sporting tradition whichis manifested in the city being hailed as one of the greatbastions of rugby in the world and the acknowledged Rugbycapital of Ireland. It’s well worth attending a rugby game on avisit to Limerick. Thomond Park is worth a special mention.

w: www.munsterugby.ie w: www.thomondpark.ie

GA A

For information on GAA clubs and fixtures in the ShannonRegion contact: GAA, Croke Park Stadium, Dublin 3.

t: +353 1 8363222 f: +353 1 8558436e: [email protected] w: www.gaa.ie

Errors and Omissions

Every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide to ensure its accuracy

and compliance with the consumer protection laws of Ireland. Shannon

Development cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such

are brought to our attention future editions will be amended accordingly.

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DISCOVER


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www.ShortbreaksIreland.iewww.DiscoverIreland.ie/ShannonRegion

www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie

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adventure guide in the shannon region

Documents

shannon airport

adventure breaksvisit

adventure seeker

great activity

adventure andactivity

outdoor enthusiastlooking

clare museum t

europes great waterways