Ireland Scenic Drives: Lough Derg Drive

In a country filled with beautiful drives, the route around Lough Derg may well be one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. Skirting the shores of the Shannon’s largest lake, this journey is a perfect blend of fascinating history, glorious unspoiled nature, and plenty of quiet rural charm. Starting in Killaloe, County Clare, and circling clockwise to finish in Garykennedy, County Tipperary, this route offers glimpses into Ireland’s past with every mile. So whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking to lose yourself in lakeside views, the Lough Derg Drive is all but guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Killaloe to Scarriff

Your journey begins in the twin towns of Killaloe-Ballina, once the seat of High King Brian Boru. St. Flannan’s Cathedral, with its intricate Romanesque doorway and 12th-century stone carvings, is an ideal first stop. Don’t miss the 18th-century canal and lock system nearby!

Leaving Killaloe, follow the R463 north through gentle hills and wooded lanes. As the road climbs, be sure to take in the sweeping views over the lake below. After about 25 minutes, you’ll roll into Scarriff, a traditional market town with plenty of food and drink options.

Scarriff also bears the marks of one of the darkest chapters in Ireland’s past; the Scarriff Workhouse, now partially in ruins, stands as a haunting reminder of the Famine era.

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Scarriff to Mountshannon

Continue along the R352 towards Mountshannon. This short drive offers wonderful views of open countryside and occasional glimpses of Lough Derg through breaks in the trees that line much of the route.

Mountshannon itself is an 18th-century planned village, perched elegantly above the lake. But the real treasure here is Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), just offshore. Accessible by boat, this island is one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites, with a round tower, churches, and ancient grave slabs still intact. It’s said that pilgrims have visited the island for over a thousand years and it’s easy to see why.

Mountshannon to Portumna

From Mountshannon, stay on the R352 before turning onto the R353 heading north and crossing into County Galway. This peaceful, pastoral stretch of the route boasts rolling fields and traditional stone walls as far as the eye can see, not to mention occasional curious donkeys or cows that may well make their presence known along your journey.

Soon you’ll reach Portumna, a town with impressive architectural heritage and ideal for an overnight stay. Portumna Castle, built in 1618 by the de Burgo family, blends medieval fortification with Renaissance elegance. Its formal gardens and riverside location offer a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the castle itself.

Close by, Portumna Forest Park invites a detour, with walking trails through oak and conifer woods that are home to deer, red squirrels, and a host of birdlife.

There are plenty of wonderful options for accommodation in picturesque Portumna. Podumna, Portumna’s unique Glamping village close to the centre of town, is worthy of particular mention for those looking for a novel spot to lay their heads. Not too far away, you’ll also find Portumna’s renowned An Caislean Bar, a local hub for good food and live traditional music.

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Portumna to Terryglass

Leaving Portumna, head southeast along the R488 toward Terryglass.

Terryglass, sitting on the east shores of the lake, has deep spiritual roots. Founded in the 6th century by St. Columba, the original monastery here was once a centre of learning and pilgrimage. Although mostly gone now, the ancient abbey ruins remain, along with two holy wells. Pilgrims still visit them today, in keeping with a tradition that is understood to stretch back 1,400 years.

Terryglass to Dromineer

The R493 leads you south along Lough Derg’s eastern shore, winding through low-lying fields and patches of woodland. As you drive, you’ll see the lake appearing and disappearing through hedgerows and bends, with occasional glimpses of moored boats and quiet coves.

In Dromineer, the ruins of a 16th-century tower house remind visitors of the area’s strategic importance during medieval times. This lakeside village was a key crossing point and trading post. Today, it retains a sense of stillness, with a simple harbour and long views out across the water.

If you’re a fan of old stonework and castle remains, this is one of the most photogenic spots on our route. If you’re feeling peckish, Dromineer also boasts an array of charming eateries not least of all the historic Whiskey Still.

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Dromineer to Garykennedy

As we begin the last leg of our trip, follow the R495 further south. This route feels increasingly remote and peaceful as you near Garykennedy, our final destination.

Nestled in native woodland and with a deep-water harbour, Garykennedy has long been a mooring point on the Shannon. The ruins of a 15th-century castle, half-hidden among the trees, add a certain mystery and unique atmosphere to this picturesque village. These ruins belonged to the O’Kennedy clan, a powerful Gaelic family long associated with this region.

The surrounding scenery here is among the finest on the lake; tall trees and calm water sound tracked by the chirping of local birdsong.

 

We think you’ll agree that our Lough Derg Drive is a special one and a uniquely Irish journey through both landscape and time. From ancient monastic sites and medieval castles to timeless views over still water, we hope you find that this road trip offers an interesting, beautiful and fun way to explore both Ireland’s heritage and natural wonder.

Check the Autoglass® blog again soon for more Irish Scenic Drives just like this one, not to mention plenty more tips, explainers and guides concerning all things motoring. Safe travels!