48 hour Suggestion for families

Day 1: Beach time and lake cruising

Morning
Start your Lough Derg adventure in Mountshannon, where you can enjoy a morning at the beautiful Blue Flag beach beside the village marina. The pristine waters are ideal for swimming, and a lifeguard is on duty during the summer. If you prefer a walk in nature, Woodpark Forest offers a fairy trail guaranteed to delight younger visitors.

Lunch
A short 10-minute drive takes you to Nuala’s Bar & Restaurant in Tuamgraney, a charming historic bar dating back to 1850. Their home-cooked lunch menu includes everything from burgers and pasta to sandwiches and wraps, plus a dedicated kids’ menu.

Afternoon
Indulge your sweet tooth at Wilde Irish Chocolates, a fun-sized chocolate factory in Tuamgraney. Watch chocolatiers at work and browse an extensive selection of handcrafted treats, from salted caramel fudge to white chocolate rocky road.

Late Afternoon
Head south to Killaloe for a Killaloe River Cruise, a one-hour boat tour along the Shannon and Lough Derg. Relax and take in the stunning scenery from a panoramic viewing deck, with drinks available on board.

Dinner & Overnight
For a family-friendly base, check into The Lakeside Hotel in Ballina. The hotel boasts a leisure centre, summer club, and even a crèche, with family activities like paddleboarding and mountain biking. Enjoy a healthy twist on kids’ favourites at dinner, plus complimentary milk and cookies at bedtime!

Day 2: Kayaking adventures and waterpark fun

Morning
After breakfast, hit the water with My Next Adventure in Killaloe. Their Brian Ború Experience guided kayaking tour is a fun and interactive way to explore the river, lough, and canal while learning about one thousand years of Irish history.

Lunch
A short drive north takes you to Larkins Bar & Restaurant in Garrykennedy. This cosy 300-year-old tavern offers a warm atmosphere, locally sourced steaks, fresh seafood, and a great kids’ menu. After lunch, explore Garrykennedy Marina, which features a playground, walking trails, and plenty of birdwatching opportunities.

Afternoon
Continue north to Aquasplash in Dromineer, an inflatable waterpark packed with slides, paddleboards, kayaks, and banana boats. Wetsuits and life jackets are provided, so all you need to bring is your energy for the SuperTramp trampoline!

Dinner & Overnight
A short 10-minute drive inland brings you to Abbey Court Hotel in Nenagh, where families can choose from hotel rooms or self-catering options. The hotel offers activity packages, and all guests have access to the leisure centre.

Before leaving Nenagh, grab a hot chocolate from Cinnamon Alley or The Pantry, and stop by Nenagh Castle for a final adventure.

Extra Activities to Explore

• Graves of the Leinstermen – A rewarding hike with panoramic views over Lough Derg. On clear days, you can see all the way to Kerry!

• Pallas Karting – The largest go-karting centre in Europe with a 1500m GP track and a beginner-friendly 500m family track.

• Fuchsia Lane Farm – A picture-perfect farm with restored cottages available for rental (two-night minimum).

• Tuscany Bistro – A delicious Italian restaurant offering pizzas, pastas, and a special kids’ menu.

This itinerary blends family-friendly adventure, great food, and local experiences, ensuring 48 hours of fun on Lough Derg!