Lough Ree Western Shore

Lough Ree is the second-largest lake on the Shannon - a peaceful inland sea dotted with islands. This route follows the quiet western shore through Longford and into Roscommon, revealing a landscape that time forgot.

Why This Route?

Lough Ree's shore offers:

• Tranquil waters - Ireland's secret lake
• Island views - Monastic and wildlife islands
• Fishing heritage - Pike, trout, and coarse fish
• Rural peace - Quiet roads, few visitors
• Shannon access - River meets lake

Where to Stay

This short half-day drive (107km) follows Lough Ree's western shore from Lanesborough south to Athlone. The route is linear, so staying at the southern end lets you combine the lakeshore drive with Athlone's restaurants and evening options before heading home.

Athlone

Athlone is the natural overnight choice, sitting right at the finish line where the Shannon flows out of Lough Ree. The town has a strong hotel and guesthouse scene, excellent riverside dining, and easy access to Glasson and Hodson Bay just a few kilometres north. From here you can drive the full lakeshore to Lanesborough and back comfortably within a morning.

Lough Ree

The lake is 25km long and up to 11km wide, with 52 islands. Its name means "Lake of Kings" - several High Kings had their seats nearby.

The Route

Starting from Lanesborough

Where the Shannon enters Lough Ree:

• Traditional fishing town
• Marina and boat hire
• Hot water discharge (attracts wildlife)
• Good pike fishing

Saints Island

Views to the monastic island where medieval hermits lived. Boat trips available seasonally.

Barley Harbour

A tiny natural harbour with beautiful lake views. Popular launch point for boats.

Elfeet Bay

Another access point with picnic facilities.

Rindoon

The atmospheric ruins of a Norman settlement:

• Castle remains
• Church ruins
• Town site
• Accessible by track (walk last section)

Lecarrow

A quiet village with:

• Canal harbour
• Lake access
• Traditional character

Hodson Bay

Resort area with:

• Water sports
• Golf
• Family activities
• Good facilities

Glasson

A charming village with:

• Excellent restaurants
• Lake views
• Golf village

Athlone

End at the Shannon crossing (see Athlone route for details).

Fishing

Pike

Lough Ree is renowned for pike:

• 20lb+ fish regularly caught
• Best: autumn and spring
• Trolling and casting

Trout

• Brown trout throughout
• Mayfly season (May-June) exceptional
• Dapping traditional method

Coarse Fish

• Bream, roach, perch
• Match fishing popular
• Various hotspots

Boat Options

Day Boats

Hire from Lanesborough or Athlone.

Guided Fishing

Local guides know the best spots.

Island Trips

Summer boat services to Saints Island and others.

Cruising

Lough Ree is part of the Shannon navigation.

Wildlife

Birds

• Great crested grebes
• Cormorants
• Herons
• Various ducks
• Swans

The "Lanesborough Effect"

The warm water discharge from the former power station attracts wildlife year-round.

Practical Tips

1. Roads are quiet - But also narrow in places
2. Rindoon - Final section on foot; sturdy shoes needed
3. Lake weather - Can change quickly; check forecasts
4. Fishing permits - Required; buy locally
5. Limited facilities - Bring provisions for quieter sections

Before You Drive This Route

Plan on Half day for the Lough Ree Western Shore: the 107km takes roughly 2.5 hours at the wheel, and the rest is why you came. If this is your first drive in Ireland, read driving on the left in Ireland before you collect the car — the first roundabout is not the moment to work it out. For what a trip like this costs in 2026, from fuel to beds, see the budget guide. If you have not booked a car yet, our guide to renting a car in Ireland covers what to choose and what the desk will ask for, and car hire excess insurance explains the excess you will be asked to cover. More drives in the same corner of the country are on the County Longford page, and the Athlone & Shannon Heritage pairs naturally with this one.