Get in Touch
Visitor Information
T: Discover Lough Derg: +353 (0)71 986 1518
T: Waterways Ireland: +353 (0)71 965 0560
E: Discover Lough Derg: info@loughderg.org
E: Waterways Ireland: info@waterwaysireland.org
Report an Issue
For hazards, safety concerns or
emergencies on the water.
T: Emergency Water Services: 0818 06 5003
Frequently Asked Questions
-
The Lough Derg Blueway is a network of water and land-based recreational trails around Lough Derg, spanning counties Clare, Galway and Tipperary. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, walking and cycling while exploring one of Ireland’s largest lakes.
-
Yes. The region is rich in heritage, including connections to the High King Brian Boru, Holy Island (Inis Cealtra), historic villages, churches and lakeside settlements.
-
The Blueway surrounds Lough Derg, which lies along the River Shannon and stretches across parts of County Clare, County Galway and County Tipperary.
-
The Blueway features approximately 160km of shoreline trails and water-based routes around the lake.
-
Yes. The Lough Derg Blueway became one of Ireland’s first officially accredited Blueways in 2022.
-
Popular activities include:
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
- Sailing
- Walking
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Wildlife watching
- Swimming (at designated locations)
- Fishing (where permitted)
-
There are 21 individual paddling trails located around the shoreline of Lough Derg.
-
Yes. The Blueway is designed to appeal to beginners, families and recreational users as well as more experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
-
Yes. Many of the walking, cycling, and paddling routes are family-friendly and can be enjoyed by visitors of varying ages and abilities.
-
Yes. Several cycling routes connect villages, harbours, forests, and lakeside viewpoints around the lake.
-
Yes. Visitors can enjoy a range of lakeside walks, forest trails, hill walks and longer-distance routes such as the Lough Derg Way.
-
Spring through early autumn generally offers the best weather for outdoor activities, although walking and sightseeing can be enjoyed year-round.
-
Access to the trails is generally free. Costs may apply for equipment hire, guided tours, lessons, accommodation or boat rentals.
-
No. Equipment hire and activity providers operate around the lake, allowing visitors to rent gear or join guided experiences.
-
Yes. Several local operators offer guided paddling, boating and outdoor adventure experiences around Lough Derg.
-
Popular access points include:
- Killaloe
- Ballina
- Dromineer
- Terryglass
- Mountshannon
- Portumna
- Garrykennedy
- Scarriff
-
Yes, provided visitors choose routes appropriate to their experience level and follow water safety guidelines.
-
Yes. A properly fitted buoyancy aid or life jacket is strongly recommended for all water-based activities.
-
Recommended items include:
- Buoyancy aid
- Waterproof clothing
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen
- Mobile phone in a waterproof case
- Change of clothes
- Weather-appropriate gear
-
Yes. Wind, rain and changing lake conditions can impact water activities. Always check forecasts before heading out.
-
Lough Derg is home to swans, ducks, herons, dragonflies, butterflies, fish species and a variety of wetland and woodland habitats.
-
Its combination of water sports, lakeside trails, heritage attractions, vibrant villages and natural scenery makes it one of Ireland’s most diverse outdoor destinations.
-
Yes. Towns and villages around the lake offer cafés, pubs, restaurants and local food experiences.
-
Yes. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, campsites and lakeside lodges throughout the region.
-
Parking is available at many access points, harbours and visitor locations around the lake, though availability may vary by season.
-
Dogs are welcome on many local trails if kept under control, although some specific routes may have restrictions. Check route-specific guidance before visiting.