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The Lakelands is a well-loved Irish destination, and it’s easy to see why. With over 800km of navigable waterways you have four route sections of the Lakelands – Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Mid Shannon, Upper Lakelands and Lough Erne. Stunning countryside and an abundance of quayside towns like Killaloe, Ballina, Athlone, Carrick on Shannon and Enniskillen make this area perfect for your next holiday.
Experience the magical history of high kings, fallen warriors and ancient monks that still lingers in the air and the stories of the people. Ireland’s hidden waterways are a world away from the rest of this island, connecting north to south, county to county and mystical past to modern present
An 800-year-old castle, mysterious pagan idols, a Global Geopark and Europe’s oldest pub – there’s quite a journey to be had around Ireland’s lakelands.
Starting in the North of the country you have Lough Erne and explore the counties of Cavan and Fermanagh. There are no fewer than 154 islands on the River Erne! If you are touring in your caravan or motorhome and basing yourself in one of the great caravan parks in Fermanagh you will have a host of great things to do and see around Lough Erne.
The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark connects not only counties Fermanagh and Cavan, but a sweep of low green fields with a subterranean warren of waterfalls, rippling rivers and airy chambers – and a gentle cruise through the underworld. Enniskillen Castle has seen m any a great battle and is well worth a visit to see this fabulous building.
The Upper Lakelands boasts many spectacular lakes, canals and rivers. Beautiful Lough Allen and Lough Key are the two major lakes in the northernmost part of the River Shannon. In Co Roscommon, Lough Key rests between the expanse of forest, parkland and hills, all waiting to be explored by the adventurous among you, by zip wire or canoe! The areas around Lough Allen provide outstanding views and beg to be explored by foot or bike.
A must see place to visit and stay is Lough Key Forest & Activity Park. Try out the park’s 47-room puzzle trail, over 100km of walking and cycling trails, a woodland Segway tour – and the only Tree Canopy Walk in Ireland. You can also overnight here. In Roscommon stop off at Strokestown Park House, an 18th Century mansion which has been faithfully restored. It is unique in that it retains its original furnishings and professionally guided tours allow visitors to experience Georgian Ireland in its purist form. You can base yourself in one of a number of top quality caravan parks in Roscommon or Leitrim and visit these great spots in the Upper Lakelands.
Travelling onwards the next stop is Lough Ree and Mid Shannon, the ideal location for the perfect holiday. Explore fascinating heritage, in an area packed with waterside restaurants, great shopping, friendly villages and a vibrant cultural life. Lough Ree is 32 kilometres long and lays claim to the geographical centre of Ireland. Right in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East this area has something for everyone old and young. Savour a pint at one of Ireland’s oldest pubs in Athlone or take in a visit to the spectacular Athlone Castle. Stay onsite on the shores of Lough Ree, in Westmeath or travel onto the historic area of Meath.
The final route is Lough Derg and the lower Shannon which is set in an attractive blend of mountain and hillside, woodland and farm. Covering 32,000 acres of waterway, Lough Derg is ideal for all kinds of watersports, cruising and angling. Taking in the counties of Clare, Tipperary and Limerick you will be spoilt for choice on which quality approved caravan parks to stay. Beautiful countryside around the lake shore and an abundance of picturesque towns and villages like Killaloe and Ballina makes this area perfect for walking, cycling, horse riding and other visitor pursuits
Stop a while in the Galway town of Portumna and spend some time at Portumna Forest where the magnificent Portumna Castle sits in stately elegance on the shores of Lough Derg. Travelling onto Killaloe, leave the car or motorhome and take a cruise down the River Shannon taking in the sights of County Tipperary on one side and County Clare on the other.
The Lakelands of Ireland travels through 10 counties in Ireland. There are a plenty of places to overnight or park up for a few nights in one of the many great top quality graded caravan parks in the areas.
With over 100 Caravan & Camping Parks offering safe and quality overnight stops throughout Ireland you will find plenty of places to pitch up for the night. Enjoy the independence and flexibility that only caravan & camping can offer in only quality approved sites. Our gates are open and looking forward to welcoming you to outdoor living.
