King John’s Castle, Limerick City

King John’s Castle is a 13th century Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick City.  The Castle overlooks the majestic River Shannon offering wonderful views of Limerick City.  Discover history at its best, magnificent views and life in Norman times.  Explore 800 years of history brought to life in the imaginative historical exhibition, excavated pre-Norman houses and the battlement walks. The sights, scenes and sounds of the Castle and its environs all combine to recreate the atmosphere of the era.

Spectacular Cliff Walks – Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

The Cliffs of Moher are amongst the most spectacular in the world - and far and away the best that can be seen in Europe within easy reach of good roads.  Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, even on a calm day, white surf continually lashes at the feet of the great cliffs.  The great Atlantic Ocean waves never stop pounding the shore.  The story of the rock is as fantastic as its appearance. The limestone was deposited as sediment in a clear, tropical sea near the Equator in the Carboniferous era, three hundred million years ago. In the course of millions of years the rock moved northwards, crumpling in places, until it reached its position today as a spectacular part of the West of Ireland.

The Beaches of the Shannon Region

Located as it is on Ireland’s West Coast, the Shannon Regions dramatic Atlantic Ocean coastline features many resort towns and fine beaches.  Imagine kilometres of golden beaches meeting the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the West of Ireland.  Many of the beaches were awarded Blue Flag status in 2005. The Blue Flag is an international environmental award made to beaches and marinas throughout Europe that demonstrate good environmental standards and good sanitary and safety facilities. Some of the best examples of these beaches include Lahinch, Kilkee and Miltown Malbay.

The Burren Region – A Unique Landscape

The Burren limestone area has many unusual features that make it unique in Europe. Its geology, flora, caves, archaeology and history set it apart as a place of great mystery and beauty. In a 100 square mile area, there are sparkling rivers, castles, tranquil lakes, towering cliffs, lush green valleys, barren rock mountains, green road walks - and everywhere relics of ancient civilisation - dolmens, stone arches, round towers, ancient churches, high crosses, tombs, great houses, monasteries and holy wells.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

A trip to this famous castle and Folk Park can include medieval banquets, great shopping and dining. The Bunratty village is synonymous with world famous 15th century Bunratty Castle and 19th century Bunratty Folk Park. Buildings range from the landlord’s house to the smallest peasant’s cottage, along with an assortment of village shops; a smithy, two watermills and an excellent collection of old farm implements. There are live demonstrations of bread baking, weaving and pottery making. The 19th century walled garden has been re-created to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers as it did when it was the source of supply to the big house.

Charming Villages : Adare

The Limerick City & Shannon region is full of beautiful little towns and villages.  It’s worth noting that the best guides can often be the locals you meet in the street!  The picture postcard village of Adare is renowned as Ireland’s prettiest village.  Visitors delight at its thatched roof cottages and Tudor style houses, beautiful gardens and medieval churches.  It really is a beautiful village set in beautiful surroundings and built beside the river Maigue.  For those who want to linger and learn more visit the Heritage centre and step back in time.

Charming Villages : Killaloe

Another beautiful village is Killaloe which lies on the southern tip of the beautiful lake of Lough Derg, 18 miles North West of Limerick city.  Killaloe is the busiest fishing and boating centre in the Shannon region. The village was established during the 12th century by the High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, and has huge historical significance in that, at one stage, it was believed to be the capital of Ireland. Being so close to the Shannon there are plenty of outdoor activities available in the area.  It is even possible to hire a small boat and make your own trip up the lake.