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CLARE SOUTH OFFALY Activities & Adventure Guide for ’s Shannon Region A&A Guide cvr 02/06/2011 10:21 Page 3 Inside_single pages fnl 02/06/2011 10:19 Page 1

Contents:

Shannon Region Map 2

Introduction 5

Activities:

Adventure & Watersports 6 20 Cycling 30 Equestrian 36 Golf 43 Walking 54 Gardens 62 Special Interest 68

For great activity and adventure breaks visit www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

Shannon Region Tourist Information Offices:

• Limerick City Centre Arthur’s Quay t: +353 61 317522 e: [email protected]

• , Co. Clare Arthur’s Row (off O’Connell Street) – in the Clare Museum t: +353 65 6828366 e: [email protected]

• Shannon Airport, Co. Clare Arrivals Hall, t: +353 61 471664 e: [email protected]

• Adare, Co. Limerick Heritage Centre, Main Street, t: +353 61 396255 e: [email protected]

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Ireland’s Shannon Region Map & Road Guide

The Shannon Region:

• Clare • Limerick • North Tipperary • South Offaly

See below for a more detailed map of the Shannon Region.

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Adventure and Activity Holidays in Ireland’s Shannon Region

The Shannon Region lies at the heart of the beautiful West of Ireland. This region of many contrasts offers a particularly diverse and exceptional tourism experience, ranging from wild scenic landscapes, unspoilt countryside, a wealth of historic/cultural attractions, to seaside resorts with beautiful sandy beaches, a rugged Atlantic coastline, a floral kingdom, the majestic – one of Europe’s great waterways, bustling rural towns and villages, and a variety of culinary experiences.

The Shannon Region is the ideal destination to get away from it all and enjoy a great outdoor holiday experience. The geography of the area and its amazing diversity of landscapes, its Atlantic seacoast, numerous rivers and great lakes, are ideally suited for the outdoor enthusiast looking for a holiday which is active and varied.

Dominated by water, the region is particularly suited to watersports enthusiasts. The River Shannon and its largest lake ‘’ are among Europe’s most popular watersports venues, and the Atlantic seacoast is a divers underwater wonderland.

A vast network of quiet country lanes, forest paths and mountain trails, along the Slieve Bloom Mountains or through ’s great expanses of glaciated limestone, and fresh air are perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy nature at its best, on foot or by bike.

This booklet features information on adventure and watersports, cruising, walking, cycling, angling, equestrian, golf, gardens and adventure centres which offer a wide range of outdoor activity holiday options in Ireland’s Shannon Region. It gives you a flavour of what the region has to offer to the outdoor enthusiast and adventure seeker. Contact details for specialist operators are featured in this booklet to help you plan your outdoor holiday!

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Adventure & Watersports

Ireland is very much a sporting activity country, where one can surf, cruise, sail, , climb, hill-walk, bike, engage in bird shooting, windsurf, cruise and scuba dive in wonderful surroundings. There are a number of approved outdoor adventure centres in the Shannon Region, catering for a wide variety of land and water based adventure/watersport activity options for all levels of experience. Accommodation varies from residential centres with bunk-style dormitory hostels to using local hotels and guesthouses.

Lough Derg, Ireland’s pleasure lake is the largest lake on the River Shannon (32,000 acres) and is a watersports paradise with its well established venue for all kinds of boating, cruising, yachting, sailing, windsurfing, skiing and angling.

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You can hire and captain your own luxury cruiser on the Shannon and Lough Derg or the call of the ocean may bring you to Kilrush Marina situated in a busy yachting harbour and a great base to explore the Atlantic coast and catch a glimpse of the resident bottlenosed dolphins on the .

For further information on adventure breaks visit: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Adventure & Watersports Clare

Atlantic Airventure Shannon, Co. Clare. The ultimate thrill for flight enthusiasts. t: +353 87 2037487 e: [email protected] w: www.atlanticairventure.com

Atlantic Diving School Licknaun, Larchill, Ennis, Co. Clare. Discover the magical waters of West Clare and Ireland’s west coast by learning how to scuba dive and obtain your certification. t: +353 65 6842755 m: +353 86 0570544 e: [email protected] w: www.atlanticdivingschool.ie

Ben's Rock Climbing Clinic The Burren, Co. Clare. Offering courses and one off sessions for all levels. Climb, abseil and push your boundaries higher than you ever thought you could. t: +353 86 8448622 e: [email protected] w: www.bensrockclimbingclinic.com

Born 2 Ride Kitesurfing School , Co. Clare. Discover the excitement of Kitesurfing in a safe environment t: +353 87 2060177 w: www.born2ride.net e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchkitesurfingschool.com

Burren Adventures Dive Centre “Sunfish”, Aughinish, Co. Clare. Provides scuba diving courses and experiences for all levels and ages from 10yrs. As a PADI 5 Star dive centre they pride themselves on providing the highest standards in training and dive experiences. t: +353 65 7078914 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenadventures.com

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Clare

Burren Outdoor Education Centre Turlough, Bellharbour, Co. Clare. Offering caving, canoeing, sailing, orienteering, rock climbing, hill walking and much more. t: +353 65 7078066 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenoec.com

Clare Leisure World Showgrounds Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Bowling, Quasar, tumble towers, video pursuits and much more. t: +353 65 6866777 w: www.leisureworld.ie

Dromoland Clay Pigeon Shooting Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. Clay Pigeon shooting year-round, using international sporting traps for groups or individuals. t: +353 61 368212 m: +353 87 2534955

Irish Activtiy Holidays Carhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. Offering customised packages for individuals and groups to include a variety of activities. t: +353 61 366999 e: [email protected] w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Kilkee Waterworld , Co. Clare. Offering a range of facilities including guysers and gushers, bubbles, whirls and lots more. t: +353 65 9056855 e: [email protected] w: www.kilkeewaterworld.ie

Lahinch Seaworld & Leisure Centre The Promenade, Lahinch, Co. Clare. The “ultimate” leisure and activity location, visit Atlantic Aquarium, Sammy Shark’s Playzone and Neptune’s retail store. t: +353 65 7081900 w: www.lahinchseaworld.com

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Adventure & Watersports Clare

Lakeside Watersports Centre , Co. Clare. Offers a range of activities including, rowing boats, & . All these are for hire at daily or weekly rates. t: +353 61 927225 e: [email protected] w: www.lakesideireland.com

Lough Derg Powerboat School Sallybay House, Derry Demense, Ballina/Killaloe, Co. Clare. Running power boat and motor cruiser training courses, varying in length from half day to four days. t: +353 61 375474 e: [email protected] w: www.boatschool.ie

Lough Derg School of Adventure Lough Derg Holiday Village, Killaloe, Co. Clare. Kayaking, canadian canoeing, raft building, team challenges, water safety and orienteering. t: +353 85 1343569 e: [email protected] w: www.loughdergschoolofadventure.com

Nevsail Watersports The Promenade, Kilkee, Co. Clare. Training courses in sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, kayaking and canoeing. Summer camps also available. t: +353 86 3308236 e: [email protected] w: www.nevsailwatersports.com

Oceanlife Dive and Watersports Centre East End, Kilkee, Co. Clare. Oceanlife, Kilkee is a PADI 5 Star Diving resort who offer PADI dive courses from Discover Scuba all the way to Assistant Instructor. t: +353 65 9056707 e: [email protected] w: www.oceanlife.ie

Orbital Winds Lahinch, Co. Clare. Offering a range of Kitesurfing courses. t: +353 87 0659338 e: [email protected] w: www.orbitalwinds.com

University of Limerick Activity Centre Two Mile Gate, Killaloe, Co. Clare. The perfect location for all your outdoor adventure needs. t: +353 61 376622 e: [email protected] w: www.ulac.ie

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Limerick City & County

Abbey Speedway Karting Centre Mountmahon, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. A fun day out for all at Abbey Speedway Karting Centre. t: +353 68 51829 e: [email protected] w: www.abbeyfealekarting.com

Ballyhoura Orienteering Ballyhoura Failte Ltd, Main Street, Kilfinane, Co Limerick. Go quad biking, absailing, windsurfing, rock climbing, walking or bird-watching. t: +353 63 91300 e: [email protected] w: www.ballyhouracountry.com

Combat Zone Combat Zone, Shanagolden, Co. Limerick. Paintballing in over twenty acres of natural woodland. t: +353 61 302031 e: : [email protected] w: www.combatzone.ie

Fun World Ennis Road, Limerick. Family entertainment centre offering, bowling, arcade amusements & kids play area. t: +353 61 325088 e: : [email protected] w: www.funworld.ie

Kilfinane Outdoor Education Centre Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. Canoeing, kayaking, surfing trips, hill-walking, rock climbing, mountain biking, abseiling, indoor climbing wall, orienteering, team challenges and much more. t: +353 63 91161 e: [email protected] w: www.kilfinaneoec.com

Kilkornan Karting Kilcornan, Co. Limerick The ultimate karting experience. t: +353 61 393728 e: [email protected] w: www.LimerickKarting.com

Limerick Wake & Ski Castleconnell, Co. Limerick. Wakeboarding for extreme watersports enthusiasts. t: +353 87 7868689 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickwakeandski.com

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Adventure & Watersports Limerick City & County

Lazy Dog Clay Bird Shooting Ballintubber, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. All weather clay bird shooting ground, indoor rifle range and individual tuition by accredited trainer. t: +353 62 53563 e: [email protected] w: www.ballyhouracountry.com

National Kart Centre Limerick Corbally, Limerick City. Located just 5mins from Limericks City centre. Offering the largest indoor karting track in Ireland. t: +353 61 340161 e: [email protected] w: www.nationalkartcentre.ie

RIB Tours Killard, Ardagh, Co. Limerick. Provide a variety of tours including Foynes Island, Shannon Estuary, Historical and Wildlife Tours. Tailored private and commercial trips are also available. t: +353 86 8140833 e: [email protected] w: www.ribtours.ie

University Arena , Castletroy, Limerick. For the basic beginner to the Olympic champion. Exceptional outdoor and indoor facilities. t: +353 61 213555 e: [email protected] w: www.universityarena.com

South Offaly

Birr Outdoor Education Centre Roscrea Road, Birr, Co. Offaly. Offering a range of watersports and dry land education courses. t: +353 57 9120029 e: [email protected] w: www.oec.ie/birr/locat.html

Esker Shooting Grounds , Co. Offaly. Clay pigeon shooting in Bangher, Co Offaly. t: +353 57 9152806 e: [email protected] w: www.esker.ie

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South Offaly

Midland Battlefield Live Birr Equestrian Centre, Kingsborough House, Fortel, Birr, Co. Offaly. Team orientated combat simulation that is played in many types of terrain including forest or field constructed battle fields. t: +353 57 91 21961 m: +353 87 2445545 e: [email protected] w: www.birrequestrian.ie

Lough Boora Parklands Leabeg , Co. Offaly. These magnificent wetlands and wildlife wilderness host some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland. t: :+353 57 9345978 e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

Skydive Ireland Birr, Co. Offaly Experience the ultimate adventure of free-falling through the sky at 200 km/h. t: +353 1 4430550 or 1850 940 222 e: [email protected] w: www.skydiveireland.ie

Shannon Adventure Canoeing & Camping Holidays The Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Offering you an excellent opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing canoeing holiday on the magnificent River Shannon. t: +353 57 9151411 e: [email protected] w: www.iol.ie/~advcanoe/index.html

Sports Rec Ireland Birr, Co. Offaly. Offers the ultimate training for team building weekends. A number of venues and activities are available. t: +353 9122331 t: 1850 940 222 e: [email protected] w: www.sportsrecireland.com

North Tipperary

Gauntlet Kylenoe Co. Tipperary. Offering five thrilling combat zones where you will enjoy ten action packed games. t: +353 67 22909 e: [email protected] w: www.gauntlet.ie

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Adventure & Watersports North Tipperary

Go with the Flow River Adventures Roscrea, North Tipperary. ‘Go with the Flow’ offers guided river treks, multi-day trips, canoe hire, courses and much more. t: +353 87 2529700 e: [email protected] w: www.gowiththeflow.ie

Portroe Dive Centre Old Quarries, , Co. Tipperary. Ireland's first inland dive centre. Portoe has been an "unofficial" alternative dive site for divers for many years. With depths ranging from 3m to 39m, there is something for all grades of divers here. Visibility can range from 3m to 15m. t: +353 86 0581579 w: www.diveportroe.com

Cruising: Clare

Doolin2Aran Ferries Pier and Liscannor Pier, Co. Clare. Offering daily sailings (April to October) to the Aran Islands and the from Doolin pier in Co. Clare. t: +353 65 7075949 or +353 87 2453239 e: [email protected] w: www.mohercruises.com

Doolin Ferries Doolin Pier, Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings from Doolin to the Aran Islands. t: +353 65 7074 455 e: [email protected] w: www.doolinferries.com

Emerald Star Connaught Harbour, , Co. . Explore Ireland’s beautiful waterways. t: +353 909 741 120 e: [email protected] w: www.emeraldstar.ie

Holy Island Tour Mountshannon, Co. Clare. Tour one of the most famous monastic sites in Ireland. t: +353 909 741 120 e: [email protected] w: www.eastclareheritage.com

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Cruising: Clare

Kilrush Marina Kilrush, Co. Clare. Situated on unspoilt west coast, offering a unique blend of facilities and attractions t: +353 65 9052072 w: www.kilrushcreekmarina.ie

O’Callaghan Angling & Cruising Liscannor, Co. Clare. Caters for anglers, cruisers, divers, surf riders, photographers, ornithologists, dolphin and whale -watchers, just to mention a few. t: +353 65 6821374 e: [email protected] w: www.ocallaghanangling.com

Scattery Island Ferries Dolphin Discovery, Kilrush, Co. Clare. Escape the hustle and bustle, cars and noise on a trip to Scattery Island with its breathtaking views over the Shannon. t: +353 65 9051327 e: [email protected] w: www.discoverdolphins.ie

Shannon Castle Line Williamstown Harbour, Whitegate, Clare. A family run fleet of modern, self-drive 2-8 berth motor cruisers fitted out to the highest standards. No previous boating experience necessary. t: +353 61 927042 e: [email protected] w: www.shannoncruisers.com

Shannon Ferry Group Kilrush Co. Clare This pleasant 20 minute journey links the main tourist routes of the West of Ireland. t: :+353 65 905312 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonferries.com

The Spirit of Killaloe Abbey St, Killaloe, Co. Clare. A luxury 50-seater passenger boat, providing a detailed commentary on all the historical sites as you cruise past shores of Lough Derg. Catering facilities available on board. t: +353 86 8140559 e: [email protected] w: www.spiritofkillaloe.com

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Adventure & Watersports Cruising: South Offaly

Carrick Craft The Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Ireland's largest privately owned cruiser companies with two Marinas on the Shannon and one on the Erne, offering weekly hires or short-breaks on their extensive fleet of 2 to 8 berth cruisers. t: +353 57 91 51000 e: [email protected] w: www.cruise-ireland.com

The River Queen The Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Sit back, relax and enjoy a Shannon cruise on board a 50 seater passenger boat t: +353 57 9151112 e: [email protected] w: www.silverlinecruisers.com

Silverline Cruisers The Marina, Banagher, Co. Offaly. This company operates a fleet of 2-12 berth charter cruisers on the River Shannon. Short breaks available. They also cater for school tours, groups with their 54-seater passenger boat. t: +353 57 91 51112 e: [email protected] w: www.silverlinecruisers.com

Cruising: North Tipperary

Shannon Sailing , , Co. Tipperary. Sail in their new fleet of Tirion 6 meter keelboats. No experience needed. Skipper available. Yacht cruises for families and small groups. Junior and adult sail training courses throughout the summer. t: +353 67 24499 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonsailing.com

The KU-EE-TU Calista, Dromineer, Co. Tipperary. A fifty-three seat water bus which departs from the New Harbour in Dromineer to explore Lough Derg. Group outings welcome. Live music, parties and food can be arranged. Yachts and small cruisers for hire. t: +353 67 24295 or +353 87 2142363 f: +353 67 23488

Adventure & Watersports

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Dolphin Watching: Clare

Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt, Peninsula, Co. Clare. Dolphin & Nature Boat Trips at the Mouth of the Shannon. Resident group of bottlenose dolphins; also, sea birds, seals, feral goats, dramatic cliffs, caves, historic ruins. t: +353 65 9058156 e: [email protected] w: www.dolphinwatch.ie

Dolphin Discovery Kilrush Kilrush, Co. Clare. Discover the magic of the Shannon Dolphins from Ireland's newest and largest dolphin watching cruise vessel "Dolphin Discovery" from Kilrush Marina. t: +353 65 9051327 e: [email protected] w: www.discoverdolphins.ie

Surfing: Clare

Aloha Surf School 4 RHO, Fanore, Co. Clare. Offer surfing lessons to all age groups. No experience necessary and all equipment is provided. Aloha Surf School is approved by the Irish Surfing Association. t: +353 87 2133996 e: [email protected] w: www.surfschool.tv

Ben’s Surf Clinic Lahinch, Co. Clare. Mobile coaching unit which can set up and run clinics anywhere there are decent waves. Surfers must provide their own surfing equipment; some available for hire. t: +353 86 8668622 e: [email protected] w: www.benssurfclinic.com

Green Room Surf School & Shop Marine Parade (next to Enzos) Lahinch, Co. Clare. Surf lessons and all equipment supplied. All qualified and to Beach Life Guard standards aswell as qualified surf instructors. t: +353 65 7082771 / +353 87 9833019 e: [email protected] w: www.greenroomlahinch.com

Adventure & Watersports

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Adventure & Watersports Surfing: Clare

Lahinch Surf School Ballyfaudeen, Lahinch, Co. Clare. Learn to surf with Irish Surfing Champion John McCarthy's Lahinch Surf School. Tuition available for adults and children. All equipment provided. t: +353 87 9609667 e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchsurfschool.com

Ocean Scene Surf School Church Street, Lahinch, Co. Clare. Ocean Scene offer one off lessons or three or five day courses. All instructors are fully qualified. t: +353 65 7081108 or +353 86 8120400 e: [email protected] w: www.oceanscene.ie

Orbital Winds Lahinch, Co. Clare. Offer a range of kite-surfing courses. All instructors are all IKO certified. Courses range from private lessons to full packages designed to teach a complete beginner. t: +353 87 0659338 e: [email protected] w: www.orbitalwinds.com

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explore Clare’s coastline

Looking for adventure, fun and something different?

... log onto: www.clare.ie or www.adventure.ireland.ie/WEST-CLARE.aspx

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Angling

If the thought of for hard-fighting, wild salmon, , pike, bream, tench, roach, rudd, perch and dace in beautifully scenic surroundings, appeals to you, then a great adventure awaits. Throughout the Shannon Region all the ingredients for a great fishing holiday are available in abundance.

Wild Atlantic salmon are seasonal visitors to the mid and lower reaches of the River Shannon and in its tributaries the Brosna, Fergus, Mulcair and Maigue rivers. These rivers and their tributaries also hold stocks of brown trout. The River Shannon’s largest lake, Lough Derg, is a vast mixed fishery with a modest stock of brownies. Doonbeg River in West Clare has a good run of Salmon and sea trout while the River Suir in is good brown trout water, renowned as a dry-fly fishery.

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The stretch of the River Shannon at the village of Castleconnell, Co. Limerick continues to bewitch anglers with its prestigious game angling waters.

For further information on angling in the Shannon Region visit: www.Shannon-Fishery-Board.ie www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Angling Clare

Angling West Coast Toormore , , Co, Clare Providing lunch, transport and all of the equipment required for your angling pleasure. t: +353 86 883 8166 e: [email protected] w: www.westcoastangling.ie

Burkes Boat Hire Main Street, Corofin, Co, Clare Boats for hire on Loughs, Inchiquin with good trout and Coarse Angling & Ballycullinan, with good Coarse Angling. t: +353 065 6837677 e: [email protected]

Ballygreen House Garraunboy, Killaloe,Co. Clare. Specialising in accommodating anglers for all kinds of fishing. t: +353 61 376798 or +353 87 641 2658 e: [email protected] w: www.pecheirlande.com

Bridge View & Riverbank Cottages Drewsboro, , Co. Clare. Self-catering accommodation; bait storage available and coarse angling catered for. t: +353 61 921354 e: [email protected]

Carrigaholt Sea Angling Centre Carrigaholt, Co. Clare, Ireland. Great sea fishing on board a first class charter boat. Equipment for hire. Tackle shop on site. Accommodation can be arranged. t: +353 65 905 8209 or +353 87 636 7544 e: [email protected] w: www.fishandstay.com

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Clondanagh Cottage Angling Centre Tulla, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast specialising in angling packages. Equipment provided. t: +353 656835429 m: +353 86 8268862 e: [email protected] w: www.ClondanaghCottage.com

Derg Lodge Mountshannon, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast and all types of fishing catered for. t: +353 61 927180 e: [email protected]

Doon Lake View House Broadford, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast, boat hire and all types of angling catered for. t: +353 61 473125

Fishing for Kids Killaloe, Co, Clare Opening up a whole new world of outdoor adventure to kids. t: +353 86 3919472 e: [email protected] w: www.fishingforkids.ie

FisHerman Main Street, Killaloe, Co. Clare Complete packages, pike fishing, guiding, accommodation and meals, and airport transfers. t: +353 61 374399 m: +353 87 9857491 e: [email protected] w: www.FisHerman.nl

Go Fishing Adventure Centre Kilbaha, Kilrush, Co. Clare. Deep sea angling charter boat from a magnificent setting on the Loop Head peninsula. t: +353 65 905 8174 or +353 87 697 4624 e: [email protected] w: www.gofishing.ie

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Angling Clare

Hillview House Maghera Tulla, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast specialising in angling, failities include rods, drying rooms, drop and collection facility. t: +353 65 6831927 or +353 87 1250317 e: [email protected] w: www.hillviewbandb.com

Inishlosky House O’Briensbridge, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast, boats for hire and all types of angling catered for. t: +353 61 377240 e: [email protected] w: www.inishlosky.com

Lakeside Holiday Park Mountshannon, Co. Clare, Ireland. Mooring facilities here provide great fishing on Lough Derg. t: +353 61 927225 e: [email protected] w: www.lakesideireland.com

Lakefield Lodge Ennis Road, Corofin, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast, boats and engines for hire, and caters for all types of angling. t: +353 65 6837675 or m: +353 87 6756465 e: [email protected] w: www.lakefieldlodgebandb.com

Lough Derg Holiday Centre Scariff Road, Killaloe, Co. Clare. Beautiful self-catering development. Boats, engines and guides for hire. Private harbour. t: +353 61 376777 e: [email protected] w: www.loughderg.net

O’Callaghan Sea Angling Roslevan, Tulla Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Offering excellent deep sea fishing off Ireland’s western coastline operating out of Liscannor. t: +353 65 6821374 or m: +353 86 267 3704 /+353 86 152 7755 e: [email protected] w: www.ocallaghanangling.com

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Clare

Rathlahine Trout Angling Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co, Clare The 15 acre natural lake is stocked with up to 3,000 Rainbow/Brown Trout.Sizes vary from 1lb to 6 lbs. t: +353 061 368412 e: [email protected] w: www.wix.com/fintanmehan/rta

Scappaflow House O’Briensbridge, Co. Clare. Bed & Breakfast; bait storage available and all kinds of angling catered for. t: +353 61 377144 w: [email protected]

Shannon Sea Angling Fort House, Cappa, Kilrush, Co, Clare Deep sea angling charter boat operator from Kilrush Harbour. ‘Ocean Star’ 26 ft. Fastworker 200 HP Volvo 2 Drive 6-8 Persons t: +353 87 2281584 e: [email protected]

Shannon Cottage Country Home 17 Abbey Street, Ennis , Co. Clare. Providing rented bikes for over 20 year, fishing tackle shop also onsite. t: +353 61 377118 e: [email protected] w: www.shannoncottage.com

Tierney Cycles & Fishing 17 Abbey Street, Ennis , Co. Clare Providing rented bikes for over 20 year, fishing tackle shop also onsite. t: +353 065 6829433 e: [email protected] w: www.ennisrentabike.com

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Angling Limerick City and County

Bleach Lough Angling Mount Pleasant,Kildimo, Co. Limerick. Munster’s leading Rainbow Trout angling facility open to visitors by appointment. t: + 353 86 2043296 e: [email protected] w: www.bleachloughanglers.ie

Castle Oaks House Hotel Castleconnell, Co. Limerick. Angling specialist available to offer advice and make all the necessary arrangements. t: +353 61 377666 e: [email protected] w: www.castleoaks.ie

Celtic Angling Paddy Dunworth, The Commons, Ballingarry, Limerick. Offering guided angling, heritage and hill walking tours. t: +353 69 68202 e: [email protected] w: www.celticangling.com

Glasha Lake Trout Fishing Athea, Co. Limerick. Glasha Lake is a beautiful well maintained brown trout lake, fully stocked with tackle hire, car parking, picnic area, shop and toilets. t: +353 068 42295

Jim Robinson Angling Centre 140 Oakleigh Wood, Dooradoyle, Limerick City. All kinds of angling can be arranged and expert personal guidance and tuition provided. t: +353 87 233 9999 or +353 61 453808 e: [email protected]

Millbank House & Angling Centre Richard Keays, Millbank House, Murroe, Limerick. Specialising in services for salmon, trout and pike anglers. t: +353 61 386115 f: +353 61 386560 e: [email protected] w: www.millbankhouse.com

The Great Pike Fishing Company 5 Greenview Close, The Fairways, Castletroy. The Great Pike Fishing Company has been offering Irish hospitality to clients for over ten years. t: +353 87 2438120 e: [email protected] w: www.greatpikefishing.com Useful Contacts: Angling

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North Tipperary

Abbeyvale House Mary Flanagan-Hunt, Abbeyvale House, Holycross, Co. Tipperary. The Suir is one of Ireland’s premier brown trout rivers with good Salmon runs especially in the lower reaches. Permits arranged; advice on the local area and drying room available. t: +353 504 43032 e: [email protected] w: www.abbeyvalehouse.com

Oakpark Lodge Owen O’Carroll, Oakpark Lodge, Portland, Lorrah, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. t: +353 90 9747143 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonfishing.com

Riverrun House Tom & Lucy Sanders, Riverrun House, Terryglass, Co. Tipperary. Terryglass boasts a magnificent harbour which is only a stroll away. This area is renowned for its coarse fishing, pike, rudd and bream. Lake boats with engines available for hire for angling. t: +353 67 22125 e: [email protected] w: www.riverrun.ie

Shannon Breeze Noel Bugler, Shannon Breeze, Ballina, Co. Tipperary. Pike and trout angling packages including accommodation, boat hire, guides and fishing tackle. t: +353 61 375027 m: +353 86 3919472 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonbreezekillaloe.com

T J’s Angling Centre T J O’Brien, T J’s Angling Centre, Main Street, Ballina / Killaloe, Co. Tipperary. Services include bait ordering storage, Ghillie services and tackle shop. t: +353 61 376009 or +353 87 810 8225 e: [email protected] w: www.tjsangling.com

Tir na Fiuise Cottages - Lime Kiln Cottage Terryglass, Co, Tipperary The Lime Kiln is a traditional style cottage on an organic farm (1 of 3 cottages). t: +353 67 22041 e: [email protected] w: www.countrycottages.ie

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Angling South Offaly

Ely House Village, Co. Offaly. Bed & Breakfast; bait fridges for anglers and all types of angling catered for. t: +353 90 9674205 e: [email protected] w: elyhouse.shannonbridge.net

Killeens Pub and Tackle Shop Derry Killeen, Shannonbridge, Via , Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly. Sell all fishing tackle, bait, rods, reels & accessories. Up to date fishing news available on the local website under local news. t: +353 90 9674112 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonbridge.net

Laurel Lodge Farmhouse Garrymore, Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly. Situated 1km from the River Shannon where large quantities of perch, bream, pike, rudd and tench can be found. Alternatively enjoy the challenge of the nearby Suck and Brosna rivers. t: +353 909 674189 or +353 86 838 4267 e: [email protected]

Lough Boora Parklands Leabeg, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. In the parklands there are a number of activities that the visitor can pursue from Angling, Walking & Birdwatching. There are four fishing lakes – freshwater fisheries for coarse and fly fishing. t: +353 939145885 e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

Rachra House Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly. Boat hire operator for fresh water fishing on the Shannon. He also operates a Gillie Service. t: +353 90 9674249 w: www.rachrahouse.shannonbridge.net/

Sleepy Hollow Taylor’s Cross, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Bed & Breakfast, tackle and bait shop and cater for all kinds of angling. t: +353 57 9151273 e: [email protected]

The Old Forge Townhouse West End, Banagher, Co. Offaly. Bed & Breakfast, tackle shop and the Old Forge cater for all types of angling. t: +353 57 9151504 e: [email protected]

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Lough exploreDerg

Looking for adventure, fun and something different?

... log onto: www.adventure.ireland.ie/lough-derg.aspx

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Cycling

An unbelievable network of roads is waiting to take you through a limitless variety of scenery. There are several country roads and byways leading to seaside coves, stopping places by lakes, rivers, and to mountain tops. The variety of scenery is almost endless; lowlands with rural villages and towns, castles, historic sites and parks to visit; rugged mountain terrain with superb vantage points, and the Atlantic coastline of .

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Many great cycle routes traverse the Shannon Region including the Burren cycleway, the dolmen cycle route, the dolphin cycle route, the Loop Head cycleway, the West Clare cycleway, the Kilmallock Cycle Hub, the Land of Edmund Spenser cycleway, the Lough Derg cycle way and the Nenagh cycleway, Clare Glens Cycle, Keeper Hill and Holycross.

Further information on these cycle routes can be found on: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Cycling Clare

Burren Bike Hire The Launderette, , Co. Clare. t: +353 65 7077061 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenbike.com

Clare Cycling Tours Co. Clare Welcome to Clare Cycling Tours where you can hitch a ride all year round to see some of Ireland's most stunning and interesting attractions. t: +353 87 935 7401 e: [email protected] w: www.clarecyclingtours.com

Go Cycle Ireland Explore and discover with 2, 4 and 7 day cycle tours in Co. Clare. t: +353 83 434 0094 e: [email protected] w: www.gocycleireland.com

Gleesons Cycles Henry Street, Kilrush, Co. Clare. t: +353 65 9051172 f: +353 65 9051733

Irish Activity Holidays Carhue stonehall Newmarket on Fergus, Co, Clare. We organise breaks for discerning individuals and offer a customised package for individuals, groups, socities and organisations. t: +353 61 366991 e: [email protected] w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Loop Head Adventures Ltd Mike Barns, Fodra, Kilbaha, Co. Clare . Offer bicycle rentals, fishing rod and snorkeling equipment rentals. Gift shop, coffee shop & camping on site. t: +353 65 9058875 m: +353 87 6640605 e: [email protected] w: www.loopheadadventures.com

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Clare

Rainbow Hostel Doolin Co. Clare Bike hire available t: +353 65 7074415 e:[email protected] w: www.rainbowhostel.net

Tierney Cycles 17 Abbey Street, Ennis, Co. Clare. Bike hire available t: +353 65 6829433 e: [email protected] w: www.ennisrentabike.com

Williams Rent a Bike Circular Road, Kilkee, Co. Clare. Bike hire available t: +353 65 9056041

Limerick City & County

Ballyhoura Bike Hire Railway Road, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick. 7 Day Bike hire for all comers plus individual trail riding introduction courses by experienced tutor. t: + 353 63 98525 e: [email protected] w: www.ballyhourabikehire.com

Ballyhoura Mountain Biking Ballyhoura Failte Ltd, Main Street,Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick is home to the top class Ballyhoura mountain biking park. t: +353 63 91300 e: [email protected] w: www.ballyhouracountry.com

GoEco Ireland Eyon, Cappamore, Co. Limerick. Holiday makers seek a unique experience that they can apply to enhance their everyday lives. t: +353 86 3967448 w: www.electricbikeholidays.ie

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Cycling Limerick City & County

Kilfinane Outdoor Education Centre Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. A wide range of activities catered for including mountain biking; courses to suit all levels. t: +353 63 91161 e: [email protected] w: www.kilfinaneoec.com

Limerick Bike Hire Lower Maiden Street, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick Offering a wide range of bikes for hire to suit all tastes whether you want to explore the nearby countryside for a day or plan a longer exploration around the region. t: +353 87 2322088 e: [email protected] w: www.johnmulcahy.com/bikehire.html

Trailriders Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick Trailriders Mountain Bikes provide bike rental, guiding and training. t: +353 87 2717330 e: [email protected] w: www.trailriders.ie

South Offaly

Lough Boora Parklands Leabeg Tullamore, Co. Offaly The magnificent wetlands and wildlife wilderness of Lough Boora now host some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland. t: +353 579345978 e: [email protected] w: www.sculptureintheparklands.com

Slieve Bloom Mountains , Co. Offaly The Slievebloom Mountains a hidden landscape located at the crossroads of Ireland less than 2 hours from , Galway, Belfast, Cork and Wexford. If you want to get away from it all it's on your door step t: +353 86 2789147 e: [email protected] w: www.slievebloom.ie

North Tipperary

Peter Moyan Bicycle Hire Cecil Way, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary Bike hire available t: +353 67 31293 e: [email protected]

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Equestrian

This is horse-riding country and you’ll find many equestrian centres both residential and non-residential in the Shannon Region. State-of-the-art riding centres are located in the most scenic parts of the region and offer riding on varying terrain; from forest trails, mountain paths and rolling pastureland to country lanes and sandy beaches, and everyone is welcome. Even those without any horse riding skills are encouraged to have a go, safely under the watchful eye of an experienced instructor. And there is a horse or pony for everyone.

Some of the most beautifully scenic riding areas include the Tipperary Hills, Glen of Aherlow, Galtee Mountains, the Golden Vale, the green roads of the Burren and the rugged Slieve Bloom Mountains.

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Nearly all centres are open throughout the year. Many have indoor arenas and all have outdoor exercise rings. Beyond the centres lie miles of open country where trail riding, trekking or cross-country canters can be arranged. Whatever option you choose - a few hours tuition or trail riding for days – just imagine the joy of the horse, like-minded company and access to scenery known to few.

For further information on equestrian visit: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Equestrian Clare

An Sibin Equestrian Centre Whitegate, Co. Clare. AIRE approved. Offering lessons to all age groups & trail rides. Residential accommodation available. 6 day, 7 night post to post trails in the Burren also available. t: +353 61 927411 e: [email protected] w: www.irishhorseriding.com

Banner Equestrian Centre Toonagh, Fountain, Ennis, Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Offers horse and pony trekking, advanced and beginners riding and jumping lessons. Private or group lessons available. Facilities include both an indoor and outdoor arena. t: +353 86 2772616 e: [email protected] w: www.bannerequestrian.com

Castlefergus Riding Stables Quin, Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Offers daily and weekly programmes for residents including half board accommodation and two hours trekking per day. Facilities include outdoor arena, cross country course, instruction and changing rooms. t: +353 65 6825914 m: + 353 87 9731145 e: [email protected]

Clare Equestrian Centre Doora, Ennis, Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Facilities include, indoor arena, outdoor sand rings, trekking and cross-country courses and a tack and clothing shop. Tuition for all ages and levels. t: +353 65 6840136 or m: +353 86 2673690 e: [email protected] w: www.clareequestrian.com

Clonlara Equestrian Centre Oakfield, , Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Offers international size indoor and outdoor arena, full grass livery area and tuition at all levels. Trekking, trail riding and cross-country course also available. t: +353 61 354172 e: [email protected] w: www.clonlaraequestrian.com

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Clare

West Clare Equestrian Centre Tullabrack, Kilrush, Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Offering lessons to all age groups, trekking & summer camp. Indoor and outdoor arena facilities on site. t: +353 65 9059115 e: [email protected] e: www.clareequestrian.com

Woodfield Equestrian Centre Broadford, Co. Clare. AIRE approved.Situated on over 11 acres of quite countryside offering outdoorarena, tuition at all levels and trekking. t: +353 87 2310428 e: [email protected] e: www.woodfieldequestrian.ie

Limerick City & County

Clarina Riding Centre Clarina, Co. Limerick. AIRE approved, providing lesson to all ages, pony trekking & summer camps. Outdoor and Indoor arena facilities on site. t: +353 61 353087 or +353 87 2479965 e: [email protected]

Clonshire Equestrian and Polo Centre Adare, Co. Limerick. AIRE approved providing 5 day programme; pony camp; trail riding and trekking. Tuition available and facilities include an indoor and outdoor arena. Residential facilities available. t: +353 61 396770 f: +353 61 396726 e: [email protected] w: www.clonshire.com

Crecora Equestrian Centre Betteville, Crecora, Co. Limerick. Groups of 15 can be catered for at any one time where you will receive expert tuition in an enclosed arena, or you can simply go for a trek. t: +353 61 355721 e: [email protected]

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Equestrian Limerick City & County

Fitzgerald’s Farmhouse and Equestrian Centre The Hill, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. AIRE approved providing lessons for beginners, a challenging cross-country course for the more advanced rider and summer camps. Residential facilities also available. t: +353 68 31217 e: [email protected] w: www.fitzgeraldsfarmhouse.com

Hillcrest Equestrian Centre Hillcrest House, Galbally, Co. Limerick. AIRE approved providing lessons to all age groups, pony trekking and outdoor arena. t: +353 62 37915 f: + 353 62 37915 e: [email protected] w: www.irishabroad.com/travel/horseriding/hillcrest

Woodview Riding Centre Dually, Newcastle West, Co Limerick. AIRE approved.Facilities include an outdoor arena and cross country course; tuition in dressage, show jumping and cross- country; Easter and summer camps. t: +353 69 61554 or m: +353 86 8440536 e: [email protected] w: www.aire.ie

South Offaly

Birr Equestrian Centre Kingsborough House, Fortal, Birr, Co. Offaly. . AIRE approved providing lessons for all age groups, trekking & pony camps. Indoor and outdoor arenas on site. t: +353 57 91 21961 e: [email protected] w: www.birrequestrian.ie

North Tipperary

Birr Equestrian Centre Kingsborough House, Fortal, Birr, Co. Offaly. . AIRE approved providing lessons for all age groups, trekking & pony camps. Indoor and outdoor arenas on site. t: +353 57 91 21961 e: [email protected] w: www.birrequestrian.ie

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North Tipperary

Crossogue Equestrian Ballycahill, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. AIRE approved providing magnificent cross country facilities, lessons to all age groups and summer camps. Residential facilities available on site. t: +353 504 54123 e: [email protected] w: www.crossogue.com

Gurteen College Apartment 3, Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. AIRE approved. Gurteen’s facilities include indoor and outdoor arenas, 45 stables and a cross-country course. Business in Equine Study courses also provided. t: +353 67 21282 w: www.gurteencollege.ie

Lough Derg Equestrian Centre Ballina, Killaloe, Co. Clare. AIRE approved. Providing lessons to all age groups, pony camps, show jumping & cross country schooling. A large floodlit indoor arena on site. t: +353 61 375847 or m: +353 86 2631361 e: [email protected]

Nenagh Equestrian Centre The Briary, Ballintoher, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. AIRE approved. Providing lessons to all age groups, trekking, indoor and outdoor arena and all year round pony camps. t: +353 86 8698885 e: [email protected] w: www.nenaghequestrian.com

Tipperary Equestrian Centre Mill Road, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. AIRE approved. Providing lessons to all age groups, trekking, trail riding, indoor and outdoor area, and pony camps. t: +353 87 7995585 e: [email protected]

Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre Rusheen, Borrisoleigh, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. AIRE approved. Specialising in family riding holidays in their friendly farmhouse, small group lessons and off-road scenic mountain treks. Beginners and non-riders welcome. t: +353 87 4106868 e: [email protected] w: www.timotrec.com

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Golf

Thanks to nature, the finest blend of links and parkland courses in Ireland are probably in the Shannon Region. The Region has a wonderful mix of superb links and parkland courses. Here you will find 25 top quality golf courses ranging from world-rated championship links to mature parkland courses. Golfers can test their skills on the wind-swept dunes of a championship links, challenge the water-traps and other hazards created by world famous designers or just play a relaxing eighteen holes on a parkland course with tree lined fairways.

On the west coast of Clare lies Lahinch, a legendary links course established in 1892. The ‘Old’ Lahinch course offers a formidable challenge, in a spectacular setting. Across the road

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the Lahinch Castle Course provides a slightly less challenging links option. Just further south, is the Doonbeg Golf Resort, opened in 2002. This links masterpiece by Greg Norman, has been developed out of such a natural habitat that you would be convinced that it too was built in the19th century. Massive dunes stretch along a mile and a half of crescent-shaped beach, with the Atlantic Ocean visible from almost every hole. North of Lahinch lies Spanish Point, a tricky 9-hole links, where accuracy is essential to register a good score.

For further information on golf visit: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Golf Golf Courses: Clare

Clonlara Golf and Leisure Club Clonlara, Co. Clare. 12 hole Par 47 parkland course, covering a distance of 3,477 metres. Facilities include club hire, driving range, motorized buggies, and motorised caddy carts. t: +353 61 354141 e: [email protected]

Doolin Pitch and Putt Club Doolin, Co. Clare. 18 hole pitch and putt links course close to Doolin village with spectacular view of The Cliffs of Moher and The Aran Islands. t: +353 86 8374289 e: [email protected] w: www.doolinpitchandputt.com

Doonbeg Golf Club Doonbeg, Co. Clare. 18-hole Par 72 links course with a distance of 6,296 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, practice green, pro shop, club hire, driving range, putting green, motorised caddy carts. t: +353 65 9055602 e: [email protected] w: www.doonbeggolfclub.com

Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare. 18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,259 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, practice bunker, practice green, pro shop, club hire, and motorised buggies. t: +353 61 368444 e: [email protected] w: www.dromoland.ie

East Clare Golf Club Bodyke, Co. Clare. 18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,400 metres. Facilities include club hire, driving range, putting green, caddy hire practice green, pro shop & motorised buggies. t: +353 61 921322 e: [email protected] w: www.eastclare.com

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Golf Courses: Clare

Ennis Golf Club Drumbiggle Ennis, Co. Clare. 18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,316 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, motorised buggies and caddy carts, club hire, practice green and pro shop. t: +353 65 6824074 e: [email protected] w: www.ennisgolfclub.com

Kilkee Golf Club East End, Kilkee, Co. Clare. 18-hole par 70 coastal course with a distance of 5,855 metres. Facilities include a pro shop, caddy, club and motorized buggy hire. t: +353 65 9056048 e: [email protected] w: www.kilkeegolfclub.ie

Kilrush Golf Club Parknamoney, Kilrush, Co. Clare. 18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,185 metres. Facilities include club hire, motorised buggies and a club shop. t: +353 65 9051138 e: [email protected] w: www.kilrushgolfclub.com

Lahinch Golf Club -Castle Course Lahinch, Co. Clare. 18-hole Par 70 links course with a distance of 5,594 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, practice green, pro shop, club hire, motorised buggies and a putting green. t: +353 65 7081003 e: [email protected] w: www.lahinchgolf.com

Shannon Golf Club Shannon Airport, Co. Clare. 18-hole 72 parkland championship course with a distance of 6,285 metres. The club offers facilities such as caddy, club and motorised buggy hire. t: +353 61 471849 e: [email protected] w: www.shannongolfclub.ie

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Golf Golf Courses: Clare

Spanish Point Golf Club Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare. 9-hole links golf course covers a distance of 1,920 metres. Facilities include club hire. t: +353 65 7084198 e: [email protected] w: www.spanishpointgolf.com

Woodstock Golf Club Shanaway Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Shanaway Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. 18-hole par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,877 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, pro shop, practice green, motorised buggies and club hire. t: +353 65 6829463 e: [email protected] w: www.woodstockgolfclub.com

Golf Courses: Limerick City & County

Abbeyfeale Golf Club Dromstrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. 9-hole parkland course of 4,072 metres, with many challenging features. Golf tuition can be arranged by appointment and a superb driving range is available for practice. Snooker room also on site. t: +353 68 32033 e: [email protected]

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort Adare, Co. Limerick. 18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,515 metres. Facilities include caddy hire, pro shop, practice green, motorised buggies and club hire. t: +353 61 605274 e: [email protected] w: www.adaremanor.com

Adare Manor Golf Club Adare, Co. Limerick. 18-hole parkland gem which weaves its way around historic ruins, with magnificent views of the Maigue River. t: +353 61 396204 e: [email protected] w: www.adaremanorgolfclub.com

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Limerick City & County

Castletroy Golf Club Golf Links Road, Castletroy, Co. Limerick. 18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 6,300 metres. Facilities include pro shop, practice area, caddy, club and buggy hire. t: +353 61 335753 e: [email protected] w: www.castletroygolfclub.ie

Limerick Golf Club Ballyclough, Limerick, Co. Limerick. 18 hold par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,943 metres. Facilities include, Pro shop, practice green and tuition. t: +353 61 415146 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickgolfclub.ie

Newcastle West Golf Club Rathgoonan, Ardagh, Co. Limerick. 18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,806 metres. Facilities include an extensive practice area, covered driving range, putting green and pro shop. t: +353 69 76500 e: [email protected] w: www.newcastlewestgolf.com

Rathbane Golf Club Crossagalla, Co. Limerick. 18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,671 metres. Facilities include pro shop and tuition. Course being updated for 2010. t: +353 61 313655 f: +353 61 313655 e: [email protected] w: www.rathbanegolf.com

Golf Courses: South Offaly

Birr Golf Club The Glenns, Birr, Co. Offaly. 18-hole Par 70 parkland course with a distance of 5,720 metres. Facilities include golf shop and driving range.. t: +353 57 9120082 e: [email protected] w: www.birrgolfclub.com

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Golf Golf Courses: North Tipperary

Nenagh Golf Club Beechwood, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. 18-hole par 72 championship course with a distance of 6,000 metres. Facilities include a pro shop, practice area and putting green. t: +353 67 31476 e: [email protected] w: www.nenaghgolfclub.com

Roscrea Golf Club Derryvale, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. 18-hole Par 71 parkland course with a distance of 5,809 metres. Facilities include trolley hire. t: +353 505 21130 e: [email protected] w: www.roscreagolfclub.ie

Templemore Golf Course Templemore, Co. Tipperary. 9-hole 2,710 meter course set in pleasant parkland terrain. t: +353 504 31400 e: [email protected]

Thurles Golf Club Turtulla, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. 18-hole par 72 parkland course with a distance of 5,911 metres. Facilities include a pro shop, trolley hire, caddy cars. t: +353 504 21983 e: [email protected] w: www.thurlesgolfclub.com

Golf Academies/Golf Driving Ranges

Abbeyfeale Golf Driving Range Dromtrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. t: +353 68 32033 e: [email protected]

Birr Driving Range The Glens, Banagher Road, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 57 9121606

Dromoland Castle Golf Academy Dromoland Castle Golf and County Club, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare. t: +353 61 368444 e: [email protected] w: www.dromoland.ie

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Limerick Driving Range Coonagh, Limerick. (just off main Ennis Rd) t: +353 86 8116255 e: [email protected] w: www.bhgolfpro.ie

Limerick County Driving Range and Teaching Facility Ballyneety, Co. Limerick. t: +353 61 351881 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickcounty.com

Newcastle West Golf Club Driving Range Ardagh, Co. Limerick. t: +353 69 76500

Unigolf Club National Technology Park, Castletroy, Limerick. t: +353 61 633200 f: +353 61633634 e: [email protected] w: www.unigolfclub.com

Golf Tour Operators

Authentic Ireland Travel Elevation Business Park, Clon Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Tour operator specialising in custom self drive tours, golf vacations, group and chauffeur tours. t: 1888 771 8350 e: [email protected] w: www.authenticireland.com

Castle Executive Coaches Ltd Cahercalla House, Cahercalla Rd. Ennis, Co. Clare. Whether you are planning a golf tour, working tour, conference event, city tour or sightseeing, Castle Executive Coaches will deliver excellent service. t: +353 65 684 3299 e: [email protected] w: www.castleexecutivecoaches.ie

Henry Golf Tours Ballyportry, Corofin, Co. Clare. Henry Golf Tours can arrange your entire custom designed Irish golf tour package, catering for golf groups of all sizes and ability. t: +353 65 6837613 e: [email protected] w: www.henrygolf.com

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Golf

Golf Tour Operators

Ireland Golf and Leisure Bedford House, Bedford Row, Co. Limerick. We also provide a number of leisure packages such as fishing, hiking, spa visits and sightseeing. t: +353 061 204444 e: [email protected] w: www.irelandgolfandleisure.com

Irish Golf Activity Holidays Carhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. Offering assistance in organising a wonderful golf holiday with a difference t: +353 61 366999 or +353 61 366991 w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Irish Golf Activity Holidays Carhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. Offering assistance in organising a wonderful golf holiday with a difference. t: +353 61 366999 or +353 61 366991 w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

Irish Golf Vacations Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Specialising in planning and co-ordinating Irish golf holidays with offices in Ireland and the United States. t: 353 87 2731781 e: [email protected] w: www.irishgolfvacations.net

JD Golf Tours 18 Tullyglass Hill, Shannon, Co. Clare. JD golf Tours arrange golfing holidays throughtout Ireland and Scotland. t: +353 61 364000 e: [email protected] w: www.jdgolftours.com

Tailor-Made Golf Tours Ennis, Co. Clare. Golf tour operator offering tailor-made golf packages to Ireland for small or large groups. t: +353 65 6845450 e: [email protected] w: www.tailormadegolftours.com

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Pitch and Putt: Clare

Clare Road Pitch and Putt Clare Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Secretary - Niall Reynolds t: +353 87 2964254

Doolin Pitch and Putt Ballaghline, Doolin, Co. Clare. Secretary - Sally Nagle t: +353 65 7074289 w: www.doolinpitchandputt.com

Halfway House Pitch & Putt Limerick Road Ennis, County Clare. t: +353 65 6829342

Kilnamona Pitch and Putt Kilnamona, Ennis, Co. Clare. Secretary - Christy O'Riordan t: +353 65 6820794

Sandfield House Liscannor, Co. Clare. t: 065 - 7081603 or m: 087 2321076

Woodpark Pitch & Putt Golf Club Woodpark, Mountshannon, Co. Clare. t: +353 61 921460 or e: [email protected]

Pitch and Putt: Limerick

Bruff Pitch and Putt Sportsfield, Bruff, Co. Limerick. Secretary - D.J. Hinchy t: +353 87 7982197 w: www.bruffpitchandputtclub.blogspot.com

Glenside Pitch & Putt Glenstal X Murroe Co. Limerick. t: +353 61 386269

Parteen Pitch and Putt , Co. Limerick Secretary - Kevin Hayes t: +353 85 1082282

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Golf Pitch and Putt: South Offaly

Ferbane Pitch and Putt Delvin Park, , Co. Offaly. Secretary - Mary Nally t: +353 90 6454351 e: www.offalypitchandputt.ie/courses_ferbane.html

Pitch and Putt: North Tipperary

Hillview Pitch and Putt Mountain Rd, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Secretary - James Cleary t: +353 87 6524741

Larkspur Park Pitch and Putt The Green, Cashel, Co. Tipperary. Secretary - Jean O'Dwyer t: +353 62 61050

Riverdale Pitch and Putt Kyleeragh, Old Birr Rd, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Secretary - P.J. Ryan t: +353 87 9950488

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Walking

Walking is truly the best way to fully absorb the beauty of the Shannon Region. A network of quiet country roads and lanes, forest paths and mountain trails will take you into the heart of beautiful, rural countryside.

The waymarked trails in the region provide something for everyone. Some, such as the offer spectacular sea views while the and the go through mountain ranges known to few Irish people, let alone tourists. The East Clare and brings you through stunning scenery including mountains, forests and lakes. Most of the mountains have gentle slopes and are ideal for quiet relaxation. The stretches from Limerick City to Killaloe along the banks of the River Shannon. The brings you to many historic sites in the heart of Ireland’s

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midlands and the is an area of undiscovered environmental beauty, boasting a fabulous array of flora and fauna, remarkable deep glens, rock outcrops and waterfalls. Guided walking tours can also be arranged at centres throughout the region.

Besides the waymarked ways there are also many short to medium distance loop walks throughout the region. Imagine peace and tranquility far from the pressures of modern life. It’s just a step away.

Further information on these walking routes can be found on: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Walking Clare

Burren Guided Walks and Hikes Mary Howard, Old Road, Fanore, Ballyvaughan. Ramble at a leisurely pace with Mary, who will share her knowledge and passion for the Burren. t: +353 65 7076100 or m: +353 87 2446807 e: [email protected] w: wwwburrenguidedwalks.com

Burren Hill Walks Shane Connolly, Burren Hill Walks, Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. Enjoy a unique walking experience and explore the Burren with a local guide. t: +353 65 707168 e: [email protected] w: http://homepage.eircom.net/~burrenhillwalks/

Burren Wild Guided Walking Tours Oughtmama, Bellharbour, Co. Clare. Offering a full programme of day tours and weekend hikes. t: +353 87 8779565 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenwalks.com

Clare Walking Tours with Clareville House , Scariff, Co. Clare. Self guided walking on the East Clare Way, maps and guide books, transport to/from daily walks, transfer to/from Shannon Airport, clothes drying facilities. Packages catered to your needs. Contact Derek t: +353 61 922925 e: [email protected] w: clarewalkingtours.ie

Ennis Walking Tours Tourist Office, Arthur’s Row, Ennis, Co. Clare. Guided walking tours through the winding streets of medieval Ennis, Co. Clare. t: +353 87 6483714 e: [email protected] w: www.enniswalkingtours.com

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Clare

Farm Heritage Tours Co-op Michael Cusack Centre (meeting place), Carron Co. Clare Six of the nine farms are situated in the burren, an area famous for its limestone carst landscape. Many tourists visit the Burren each year but miss out on some of these really special places. t: +353 065 7089944 e: [email protected] w: www.farmheritagetours.com

Fertile Rock Study Tours Christy Browne, Station Road, Lahinch, Co. Clare. Organised tours for groups interested in archaeology, history, folklore and flora. t: +353 65 7081168

Heart of Burren Walks Caherblonik, Kilnaboy, Co. Clare. Tony Kirby offers guided walks ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hill walks. t: +353 65 6827707 e: [email protected] w: www.heartofburrenwalks.com

Irish Activity Holidays Carhue, Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. Offer customised walking package for individuals and groups. t: +353 61 366999 or +353 61 366991 e: [email protected] w: www.irishactivityholidays.com

West Clare Walking Tours Kilrush, Co. Clare. Packages can be tailored to suit needs and requirements and level of walking experience. All walks are led by your experienced guide, Paul Hally. t: +353 87 2397558 e: [email protected] w: www.estuarywalkingtours.com

Walking

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Walking Limerick

Angela’s Ashes & Historical Walking Tours Limerick Tourist Office, Arthurs Quay, Limerick. Walk through Limerick City with Michael O’Donnell who will show you some of the many places that feature in Angela’s Ashes. t: +353 61 327108 or +353 87 6353648 w: www.freewebs.com/walkingtours

Historical Limerick Walking Tour Limerick Tourist Office, Arthurs Quay, Co. Limerick. Limerick has a colourful and fascinating history which is evident everywhere and proudly maintained. t: +353 87 6353648 e: [email protected] w: www.freewebs.com/walkingtours/

Historical Walking Tours Kings Island and St Marys Parish 44 Nicholas Street, Limerick City Centre Co. Limerick St Marys Parish and Kings Island is better known as 'The Parish' and is Limericks best known historical area. t: +353 087 6221906 e: [email protected]

Kilmallock Walking Tours Noel Collins, Killmallock, Co. Limerick. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Mediaeval Kilmallock visiting all the heritage sites. t: +353 63 98259

Limerick Civic Trust Walking Tours Bishops Palace, Old Church St, Limerick City Choose from a range of walking tours including Georgian Quarter Tour, Peoples Park Tour, Tour of North Munster Masonic Center, The Georgian House and Garden Tour and a Tour of Medieval Englishtown. t: +353 61 313399 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickcivictrust.ie

Shannonside Tours Noel Curtin, Limerick City. Various walking tours of Limerick city include Georgian Limericik, Medieval Limerick adn Angela’s Ashes. Tours also availale in the Burren, Co. Clare. t: +353 87 2351339 e: [email protected]

Walking Tours Of Askeaton Anthony Sheehy, Askeaton, Co. Limerick Guided tours of Askeaton Friary, Desmond Castle and the Hellfire Club. t: +353 61 392149

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Limerick

Walking Tours of Ballyhoura Main Street, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick. Ballyhoura Country is a walker's paradise offering spectacular walking in ancient and unspoilt landscapes. t: +353 63 91300 w: www.ballyhouracountry.com

Walking Tours of Lough Gur Lough Gur, Co. Limerick. Enjoy summer guided walking tours of Lough Gur. t: 061 385386

South Offaly

Ardmore House: The Walk Kinnitty, Co. Offaly. Situated in the heart of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, less than two hours from Dublin, Rosslare, Cork and Galway. t: +353 57 9137009 e: [email protected] w: www.kinnitty.net

Lough Boora Parklands Leabeg, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. There are 50 km of paths in the Parklands ranging in length from a short stroll to 5 km. Whether taking a closer look at the Parkland’s flora and fauna, or simply taking a quiet walk, these paths are the ideal way to see the Parklands. t: +353 939145885 or m: +353 87 9904234. e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

Slieve Bloom Walks Ardmore House, Kinnitty, Co. Offaly. Short breaks featuring self -guided walks or guided walks in the heart of Ireland. t: +353 57 9137009 or m: +353 86 2789147 e: [email protected] w: www.kinnitty.com

Walking

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Walking North Tipperary

Fairymount Farm Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. Offering walkers unique opportunity to spend time walking on a beautiful, award winning, and family-run working organic farm. t: +353 67 21139 e: [email protected] w: www.fairymountfarm.com

Guided Bus and Walking Tours Aghancon, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. Two to seven day personalised bus and walking tours in the Midlands. t: +353 87 2763565

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DISCOVER WONDERSthe of Ireland’s Shannon Region

CLARE LIMERICK NORTH TIPPERARY SOUTH OFFALY

Shannon Region Tourist Information Offices: Limerick City Centre t: +353 61 317522 Ennis, Co. Clare t: +353 65 6828366 Shannon Airport, Co. Clare t: +353 61 471664 Adare, Co. Limerick t: +353 61 396255 Inside_single pages fnl 02/06/2011 10:19 Page 62

Visitor Gardens

Ireland has an enviable reputation for the variety of plants, shrubs and trees which its weather, softened by the Gulf Stream, allows to flourish in the most unusual of places.

The Shannon Region has many beautifully designed and maintained gardens which are open to the public, from the formal and grand to the more relaxed private garden; all of which are a pleasure to visit.

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As well as gardens, there are other regions of great interest to the botanist, such as the Burren, home to thousands of species of wild plants where Mediterranean and Alpine plants grow together in perfect harmony. On the eastern end of the region is Lough Boora Parklands, through a creative combination of nature and the human hand, new habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna are emerging on the cutaway bogs.

For further information on visitor gardens in the Shannon Region visit: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Visitor Gardens Gardens: Clare

Ballyvoe Garden Doolin, Co. Clare. This garden is designed to look very simple, but as one moves around it, one begins to find "hidden" pathways leading to other sections or mini gardens. m: +353 87 9147725 e: [email protected] w: www.doolingarden.com

Bunratty Castle Gardens Bunratty, Co Clare. The gardens at Bunratty are divided into two areas; the recently restored Regency walled garden and shrubbery at Bunratty House, and the Folk Park vernacular gardens. t: +353 61 360788 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonheritage.com

The Burren North Clare. The Burren is home to 1,100 species of plants out of the 1,400 in Ireland. It is the only place in Europe where Mediterranean and Artic Alpine plants grow in perfect harmony. e: +353 361555 w: www.DiscoverIreland.ie/Shannon

Caher Bridge Garden Fanore, Co. Clare. This delightful, award-winning plantsman’s garden nestles in the heart of The Burren. Based around a restored riverside cottage, it has been created from what was a dense hazel and blackthorn scrub. m: +353 86 080274

Irish Seed Savers Association Capparoe, Scariff, Co. Clare. A charity set up to preserve the agricultural biodiversity of Ireland by collecting, conserving and growing fruit, grains and vegetables. t: +353 61 921866 e: [email protected] w: www.irishseedsavers.ie

Knappogue Castle and Walled Garden Quin, Co. Clare Knappogue offers a newly restored 1.25 acre walled garden set against the beautiful backdrop of . The imposing walls of the garden have now been refurbished with climbing roses, grapevines and many clematis varieties. t: +353 61 360788 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonheritage.com

Visitor Gardens

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Gardens: Clare

Lough Derg Garden Trail The Lough Derg Garden Trail features 10 gardens near Lough Derg. Whether you are a keen gardener, having a family day out or taking a day trip with your friends, there is something for everyone. t: +353 67 33464 e: [email protected] w: www.loughderggardens.com

Vandeleur Walled Gardens Vandeleur Demesne, Kilrush, Co. Clare. Beautiful old stonewalls enclose this sheltered Walled Garden (2.158 acres) which is set among 420 acres of native woodland. t: +353 65 9051760 e: [email protected] w: www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie

Gardens: Limerick

Ballynacourty Gardens Ballysteen, Askeaton, Co. Limerick. Nearly four acres of open fields have been turned into one of ’s most beautiful gardens. t: +353 61 396409 e: [email protected]

Boyce Gardens Mountrenchard, Foynes, Co. Limerick. This award winning garden, one acre in size, overlooks the River Shannon. t: +353 69 65302 e: [email protected] w: www.boycesgardens.com

Glin Castle Gardens Glin, Co. Limerick. Glin Castle is the home of Desmond Fitzgerald, 29th Knight of Glin. The Castle was built in the 1780's on the south shore of the River Shannon. t: +353 68 34173 e: [email protected] w: www.glincastle.com

Islanmore Stud and Gardens Croom, County Limerick. The beautiful gardens at Islanmore are set around a fine Georgian house with three acres of mown lawn, an extensive shrubbery and many mature specimen trees. t: +353 61 397825 e: [email protected]

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Visitor Gardens Gardens: Limerick

Knockpatrick Gardens Knockpatrick, Foynes, Co. Limerick. An award-winning 3-acre garden that enjoys a wonderful location overlooking the scenic Shannon Estuary in West Limerick. t: +353 69 65256 e: [email protected] w: www.knockpatrickgardens.com Limerick Garden Trail Boyce Gardens, Mountrenchard, Foynes, Co. Limerick. Limerick Garden Trail celebrates the diversity and range of gardening in this part of the West of Ireland - 6 beautiful gardens in the Shannon Region. t: +353 87 9890359 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickgardentrail.com Moanwing Garden Rathkeale, Co. Limerick. A beautiful rural prizewinning garden comprising 2 acres of mature trees and shrubs in a farm setting. t: +353 69 64056 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickgardentrail.com

Terra Nova Gardens Dromin, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick. Half acre ornamental plantsmans garden, containing many ponds and water features. Stuffed to the brim with rare and unusual plants. t: +353 63 90744 e: [email protected] w: www.terranovaplants.com

Gardens: North Tipperary

Turtulla Garden Turtulla, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. A mature, award winning garden on one acre with a variety of trees, shrubs, roses and herbaceous perennials; in springtime the garden boasts some 30 varieties of daffodils. t: +353 87 8358842 Lough Derg Garden Trail Turtulla, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. The Lough Derg Garden Trail features 8 gardens near Lough Derg. Whether you are a keen gardener, having a family day out or taking a day trip with your friends, there is something for everyone. t: +353 67 33464 e: [email protected] w: www.loughderggardens.com

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Gardens: South Offaly

Bellfield House Gardens Shinrone, Birr, Co. Offaly. The Georgian farmhouse and gardens are the home of garden designer Angela Jupe. The gardens include a 2 acre walled garden which features an Eastern style folly and a Victorian glasshouse. t: +353 505 47766 e: [email protected]

Birr Castle Demesne Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly. The award winning gardens are the largest in the country, spanning over 120 acres of formal and natural landscapes with 5 miles of paths. The impressive worldwide plant collection boasts over 50 champion trees as well as a Victorian fernery, wildflower meadows, lake, rivers and waterfalls. t: +353 57 9120336 e: [email protected] w: www.birrcastle.com

Lough Boora Parklands Boora, Co. Offaly. Through the creative combination of nature and the human hand new habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna are emerging on the cutaway bogs of Lough Boora Parklands. t: +353 57 9345978 e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

Woodland Cottage Garden Birr, Co. Offaly. These gardens consist of three different ares; the main lawn, a hidden path to the rose garden and a beautiful woodland area. Appointment only. t: +353 57 9121215 m: +353 86 3061697

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Special Interest Activities The Shannon Region has many other interesting activities for you to enjoy from trying your hand at one of the region’s cookery schools, exploring wonderful nature and wildlife, enjoying traditional music and dance and more.

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For further information on special interest activities in the Shannon Region visit: www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie

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Special Interest Activities Nature and Wildlife

Animal Magic – Falconry and Conservation Deebert, Kilmallock, Limerick. Whether you are looking for falconry courses, natural history lectures, mini zoos, or a combination, one thing is for certain, you will have the experience of a lifetime. t: +353 63 98777 e: [email protected] w: www.animalmagic.ie

Birdwatching in Ireland Birdwatching at the Cliffs of Moher, Shannon , Lough Boora Parklands and more. t: +353 57 9151676 e: [email protected] w: www.birdwatchireland.ie

Birds of Prey at Aillwee Caves Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. Features the largest display of Falcons, Harris Hawks, Owls, American Kestrels and White Tailed Sea Eagles in the country. e: [email protected] w: www.aillweecave.ie

The Burren Burren National Park, Co. Clare. Experience the wonder of the Burren which is home to the most unusual species of Flora and Fauna. e: [email protected] w: www.burrenbeo.com

Cabragh Wetlands Holycross, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. This unique 200 acre ecosystem contains varied habitats, birds, flowers, insects and mammals. Enjoy nature’s beauty and peace via walkways, hide, visitor centre, public events. t: +353 504 43879 e: [email protected] w: www.cabraghwetlands.ie

Lough Boora Parklands Leabeg Tullamore, Co. Offaly. These magnificent wetlands and wildlife wilderness host some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland. t: +353 57 9345978 e: [email protected] w: www.loughbooraparklands.com

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Cookery

Berry Lodge Cookery School Annagh, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare. A warm welcome awaits you at the charming Victorian family home offering superb accommodation, excellent food and cookery tuition. t: +353 65 7077022 e: [email protected] w: www.berrylodge.com

Bunratty Cookery School Manderley House, Deerpark, Bunratty, Co. Clare. Offering a wide variety of courses designed to cater for all levels. All the courses are delivered by professional chef and owner Donnagh Gregson. t: +353 061 713500 e: [email protected] e: www.bunrattycookeryschool.ie

Fiacri Country House Cookery School Bourerea, Knock, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary Classes run over a five week period, every Tuesday. One day courses are run throughout the year particularly at Christmas and Easter. Classes are interactive. t: +353 505 43017 e: [email protected] w: www.fiacrihouse.com

Inchiquin House Cookery School Corofin, Co. Clare. Inchiquin Cookery School offers you a real weekend of indulgence by combining the love of home cooking and living country life all in a period Georgian home. t: +353 0 85 211 8835 e: [email protected] w: www.inchiquinhouse.com

The Sarah Baker Cookery School House, Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary. Offering students the chance to learn about organic and traditional farming methods. t: +353 87 9690824 e: [email protected] w: www.sarahbaker.ie

Genealogy

Clare Heritage & Genealogical Centre Church Street, Corofin, Co. Clare. Offers the largest collection of genealogical material housed in any one place to enable persons with Clare roots to trace their fore bearers. t: +353 65 6837955 e: [email protected] w: www.clareroots.com

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Special Interest Activities Genealogy

Limerick Genealogy c/o Lissanalta House, Dooradoyle, Co. Limerick. Provides a professional research service for those wishing to learn about their ancestral roots in Limerick city and county. t: +353 61 496548 w: www.limerickgenealogy.com

North Tipperary Genealogy Centre The Governors House, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Providing a genealogical research sevice for clients whose ancestors originated in North Tipperary. t: +353 67 33850 e: [email protected] w: www.tipperarynorth.ie/genealogy or www.rootsireland.ie

Offaly Historical Society Research and Exhibition Centre, Bury Quay, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. Provides a professional research service for those wishing to learn about their ancestral roots in Offaly. t: +353 57 9321421 w: www.offalyhistory.com

Learning English

Clare Language Centre College Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Offer short intensive, business English or long term examination courses. You can also train as a TEFL teacher. t: +353 65 6841681 w: www.clarelc.ie

Doolin Language Centre Doolin Co. Clare We provide General English and Business English language courses to adult learners. We offer individual and small group tuition only. t: +353 065 7072436 f: +353 65 7074877 e: [email protected] w: www.doolinlanguage.com

E.B.C College Limerick No 6 Pery Square Co. Limerick We have English language programme on NQAI from Preliminary to Mastery, 6 levels accredited by City and Guilds. t: +353 61 446539 e: [email protected] w: www.limerickcitycampus.com

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Learning English

English in Tipperary Southpark, Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. Offering intensive language courses for individuals & small groups. Each course is tailor-made to suit the personal and professional requirements of the students. t: +353 67 21105 or +353 67 28026 w: www.englishintipperary.com

Holywell Language Centre Newtown, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. A unique language centre where English is taught at various levels and combined with cultural and leisure activities in unusual surroundings. t: +353 65 7077322 e: [email protected] w: www.holywell.net

HSI English Lanuage School 3 Quinlan Streeet, The Crescent, Limerick. Specialies in the provision of career-focused English language programmes. t: +353 61 317822 e: [email protected] w: www.hsi.ie/englishlanguageschool

Kilfinane Education Centre Kilfinane, Co.Limerick. This outdoor education centre provides residential English language courses and specialises in courses for junior groups, combining English language tuition with adventure sport activities. t: +353 63 91161 or +353 63 91059 e: [email protected] w: www.kilfinanelanguage.com

Language Ireland at Lesseragh Lesserage House, Coolbawn, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Provides residential English training in a country setting. Courses range from beginners to English for special purposes such as engineering, law, medicine and business. t: +353 67 28008 e: [email protected] w: www.language-ireland.com

Language Travel Ireland Roselawn House, National Technology Park, Limerick. From its bustling urban centers to its striking scenery of unspoilt green countryside, clean beaches, magnificent coastline,the Limerick and Shannon region is a great place to come to study English. t: +353 87 9270400 e: [email protected] w: www.englishireland.ie

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Special Interest Activities Learning English

Limerick Language Centre 16 Upper Mallow Street, Limerick. A medium sized school offering full and part time courses, including residential facilities. This college has students from 4 continents representing 36 different nationalities. t: +353 61 415292 e: [email protected] w: www.english-in-limerick.com

Limerick College of Business Studies 56 O’ Connell Street Co. Limerick With a newly renovated building, LCBS offers students an optimum learning environment, with small class sizes, experienced lecturers and a warm and friendly family environment. t: +353 61 317 971 e: [email protected] w: www.lcbs.ie

University of Limerick Language Centre Department of Languages and Cultural Studies, University of Limerick. Offering professionally-designed and delivered English language courses to adults, the Centre also aims to provide a friendly and supportive environment where each participant can work to fulfill individual needs. t: +353 61 202775 or +353 61 202777 w: www.ul.ie/languagecentre

Entertainment Venues

Belltable Arts Centre O’Connell Avenue, Limerick. t: +353 61 319866 f: +353 61 418 552 e: [email protected] w: www.belltable.ie

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre Oxmantown Hall, Birr, Co. Offaly. Box Office: +353 57 9122911 e: [email protected] w: www.birrtheatre.com

Dolan’s Dock Road, Limerick Concert venue and traditional Irish music pub e: +353 61 314483 e: [email protected] w: www.dolanspub.com

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Entertainment Venues

Fiddlers Rest Loughmore Village, Templemore, Co. Tipperary. t: +353 86 8099661 e: [email protected] w: www.fiddlersretreat.com

Friars Gate Theatre & Arts Kilmallock, Co. Limerick t: +353 63 98727 e: [email protected] w: www.FriarsGate.ie

Glór Irish Music Centre Ennis, Co. Clare. t: +353 65 6843103 e: [email protected] w: www.glor.ie

Honeyfitz Theatre Lough Gur, Co Limerick. Theatre and performance venue t: +353 87 0852022 e: [email protected] w: www.loughgur.com/honey-fitz-theatre

Irish Harp Centre & Music School Castleconnell, Co. Limerick. t: +353 61 372777 w: www.irishharpcentre.com

Nenagh Arts Centre Town Hall, Banba Square, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. t: +353 67 34900 e: [email protected] w: www.nenagharts.com

The Loft Venue @ The Locke Bar George’s Quay, Limerick City. Theatre, music, poetry reading & Limerick Wrriters Centre t: +353 85 2085737 w: www.bottomdogtheatre.com

The Source Arts Theatre Central Cathedral Street, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. t: +353 504 90340 w: www.thesourceartscentre.ie

The White House O’Connell Street, Limerick City Poetry readings weekly. t: +353 61 412377

University Concert Hall University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick. t: +353 61 331549 w: www.uch.ie

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Special Interest Activities Painting & Art: Clare

Art at the Park Knocknadiha, Toornafulla, Co. Limerick t: +353 69 81931 e: [email protected] w: www.irishartholidays.com

Burren College of Art , Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. t: +353 65 7077200 e: [email protected] w: www.burrencollege.com

The Burren Painting Centre , Co. Clare. t: +353 65 7074208 e: [email protected] w: www.burrenpaintingcentre.com

Painting & Art: Limerick

Irish Art Holidays Knocknadiha, Toornafulla, Co. Limerick. t: +353 69 81931 e: [email protected] w: irishartholidays.com

Painting & Art: South Offaly

Belmont Mill & Artists Studios Belmont, Co. Offaly. t: +353 90 64 57598 e: [email protected] w: www.belmontmill.com

Bramber Studio Rathcahill, Shinrone, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 505 47025 or +353 87 2889616 e: [email protected] w: www.bramberstudio.com

Cathal Barber Studio Workshops O’Connell Street, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 57 9120044 e: [email protected] w: www.jewellerybycathal.com

Emporium at The Stables Oxamtown Mall, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 57 9120263 e: [email protected] w: www.thestablesbirr.com

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Painting & Art: South Offaly

Tin Jug Studio Brendan Street, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 87 6681783 or +353 57 91 21818 e: [email protected] w: www.tinjugstudio.com

Shannonbridge Pottery Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly. t: +353 90 9674333 e: [email protected] w: www.shannonbridgepottery.com

Swaying Tree Dromoyle, Birr, Co. Offaly. t: +353 86 1966166 e: [email protected] w: www.swayingtree.com

Strawberry Hill Antiques Main Street, Banagher, Co. Offaly. t: +353 87 2941597 e: [email protected]

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Special Interest Activities Greyhound Racing

Experience the excitement of greyhound racing.

Limerick Greyhound Stadium Limerick Greyhound Racing Track Ltd., Dock Road, Limerick. Experience the excitement of greyhound racing at Limerick’s greyhound stadium. The atmosphere, the food, the flutter, the craic and of course the top class racing all make for a great night out. Racing held each Friday and Saturday. t: +353 61 214604 w: www.igb.ie/limerick/

Thurles Greyhound Stadium Townspark, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Experience the excitement of greyhound racing every Friday and Saturday Night. Bar and restaurant facilities available. t: +353 504 21003 e: [email protected] w: www.igb.ie/Stadia/Thurles

Horse Racing

Limerick Racecourse Patrickswell, Co. Limerick. t: +35361 320000 e: [email protected] w: www.LimerickRaces.ie

Thurles Racecourse Thurles, Co. Tipperary. t: +353 504 22253 e: [email protected] w: www.thurlesraces.ie

Rugby

Limerick is famous for its wonderful sporting tradition which is manifested in the city being hailed as one of the great bastions of rugby in the world and the acknowledged Rugby capital of Ireland. It’s well worth attending a rugby game on a visit to Limerick. Thomond Park is worth a special mention.. w: www.munsterugby.ie w: www.thomondpark.ie w: www.irfu.ie

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GAA

For information on GAA clubs and fixtures in the Shannon Region contact the GAA: t: +353 1 8363222 e: [email protected] w: www.gaa.ie

Errors and Omissions Every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide to ensure its accuracy and compliance with the consumer protection laws of Ireland. Shannon Development cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention future editions will be amended accordingly.

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DISCOVER WONDERSthe of Ireland’s Shannon Region

CLARE LIMERICK NORTH TIPPERARY SOUTH OFFALY

Shannon Region Tourist Information Offices: Limerick City Centre t: +353 61 317522 Ennis, Co. Clare t: +353 65 6828366 Shannon Airport, Co. Clare t: +353 61 471664 Adare, Co. Limerick t: +353 61 396255 A&A Guide cvr 02/06/2011 10:21 Page 4 A&A Guide cvr 02/06/2011 10:21 Page 1

www.ShannonRegionTrails.ie www.DiscoverIreland.ie www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie