Tipperary's Lough Derg Shore
Tipperary
About This Route
North Tipperary's Lough Derg shore is a lakeland of quiet villages, water activities, and gentle countryside. This route follows the Shannon's great lake from Nenagh to Dromineer, through territory that feels like a secret Ireland.
Why This Route?
Tipperary's Lough Derg offers:
- Lakeside villages - Dromineer, Terryglass, Ballinderry
- Water activities - Sailing, fishing, cruising
- Nenagh Castle - Impressive Norman keep
- Peaceful countryside - Away from main routes
- Family friendly - Beaches and easy access
The Route
Nenagh
North Tipperary's main town:
Nenagh Castle
Impressive circular keep:
- 30m tall
- Norman construction
- Free access
- Town landmark
The Town
Traditional market town:
- Heritage centre
- Good facilities
- Gateway to Lough Derg
- Traditional shops
Dromineer
The lakeside village:
The Village
Sailing centre of Lough Derg:
- Marina
- Yacht club
- Restaurants and pubs
- Swimming beach
Activities
- Sailing and boat hire
- Swimming (designated area)
- Fishing
- Lakeside walks
Garrykennedy
Tiny harbour village:
- Ancient castle ruins
- Traditional pub (Larkin's)
- Fishing boats
- Atmospheric setting
Portroe
Village above the lake:
- Lookout point
- Tountinna views
- Quiet atmosphere
Ballina/Killaloe
Twin towns at the southern end:
Ballina (Tipperary side)
- Restaurants and pubs
- River activities
- Marina
- Heritage buildings
Killaloe (Clare side)
See East Clare route for details.
Terryglass
One of Ireland's prettiest villages:
- Thatched cottages
- 6th-century monastery site
- Paddy's Bar (famous pub)
- Quiet atmosphere
Puckane
Small village with:
- Traditional character
- Lakeside access
- Good pub food
Return to Nenagh
Through rolling North Tipperary farmland.
Lough Derg
The Lake
One of the Shannon's great lakes:
- 32km long
- Dotted with islands
- Popular for sailing
- Excellent fishing
Activities
Sailing
Lough Derg is Ireland's premier sailing lake:
- Yacht clubs at Dromineer, Killaloe
- Dinghy and cruiser sailing
- Regattas in summer
Fishing
- Pike
- Perch
- Trout
- Bream
Swimming
Designated areas at:
- Dromineer
- Killaloe
- Various beaches
Cruising
Shannon navigation passes through:
- Boat hire from various points
- Day trips available
- Multi-day cruises
Nenagh Castle
The Keep
One of Ireland's finest Norman keeps:
- Built c.1200
- Butler family stronghold
- 30m tall
- Walls 6m thick at base
Visiting
- Free access to grounds
- Interior sometimes accessible
- Town centre location
Walking
Lough Derg Way
Long-distance trail along the shore:
- 64km total
- Day walk sections
- Lakeside and woodland
Portroe Loop
Views over the lake from above.
Graves of the Leinstermen
Prehistoric cairns near Portroe with views.
Practical Tips
- Dromineer - Gets busy summer weekends
- Swimming - Lake water clean but cold
- Terryglass - Book restaurant tables in summer
- Sailing - Courses available for beginners
- Roads - Quiet lakeside roads; agricultural traffic
Recommended fuel stops along this route:
Fuel stations are available in major towns along the route.
