Where the Shannon Meets the Wild Atlantic
The Shannon Estuary Way is a breathtaking 207km route that follows the Shannon Estuary, where the River Shannon—the longest river in Ireland—flows into the Atlantic Ocean. While the full route passes through Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, here we focus on the Clare side of the Estuary, where a world of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique experiences awaits.
The Shannon Estuary Way offers the freedom to explore as much or as little as you like—whether you complete the entire route or just a section, every stop promises something special. You can start anywhere along the route, with towns and villages like Bunratty, Shannon, Ennis, and Kilrush offering great entry points.
For those exploring on two wheels, Clare’s section of the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast Route provides a fantastic cycling experience, offering well-signposted roads, scenic estuary views, and gentle gradients that make for an enjoyable ride.
Cratloe to Shannon: Woodland Walks & Medieval Marvels
Starting in Cratloe, just a short distance from Limerick, the Cratloe Woods offer a peaceful escape with scenic walking and cycling trails. These ancient oak forests once provided timber for ships and buildings—including Westminster Hall in London. Nearby, Ballymorris Pottery is a chance to experience handmade Irish ceramics, perfect for picking up a unique gift.
Continuing west, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park invites visitors to step back in time. The 15th-century castle, once home to the powerful O’Brien clan, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Climb its narrow stone staircases to explore the banqueting hall, great chamber, and battlements, where stunning views stretch across the estuary.
Outside the castle, Bunratty Folk Park recreates a 19th-century village, where costumed characters—like the schoolteacher, doctor, and Bean an Tí—bring history to life. Wander the village street, traditional farmhouses, and working blacksmith’s forge, or explore the children’s ‘Viking playground’ and meet native Irish animals. For a touch of magic, follow the enchanted Fairy Trail through woodlands and walled gardens.
Shannon to Ennis: Aviation, Walking & Monastic Ruins
In Shannon, the Shannon Town Estuary Looped Walk offers a scenic waterside trail, where you can take in estuary views, birdlife, and fresh Atlantic air. This peaceful route is a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the meeting of river and sea.
A short distance away, Shannon Aviation Museum provides an interactive journey through Ireland’s aviation history. Climb into real aircraft cockpits, explore aviation exhibits, or experience a flight simulator under the guidance of a professional pilot.
Nearby, Shannon Golf Club offers a championship course with estuary views, making it a great stop for golfers looking to enjoy a round in a stunning setting.
As one of Ireland’s key international gateways, Shannon Airport has long been a major entry point to Clare, welcoming visitors from across the world to Clare.
Continuing your route, and with a short diversion, brings you to Clare Abbey, a 12th-century Augustinian ruin near Clarecastle. Set along the riverbank, the abbey’s crumbling stone walls and arched windows offer a peaceful glimpse into Ireland’s past.
A short trip brings you to Clarecastle Harbour, where the River Fergus meets the Shannon Estuary. Once a busy trading port, its stone quays and tranquil waters offer a glimpse into Clare’s maritime past. Today, it’s a peaceful spot to pause and enjoy the riverside setting.
In Ennis, the county’s capital, you’ll find Ennis Friary, a beautifully preserved Franciscan friary with intricate stone carvings and medieval tombs. Founded in the 13th century, the friary played a central role in the town’s early development. In fact, Ennis itself grew around this religious settlement, becoming a thriving market town in the centuries that followed. Today, its narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere reflect its rich heritage, making it a must-visit along the Shannon Estuary Way. Nearby the Friary, the Clare Museum tells the story of Clare’s rich heritage, from prehistoric finds to the county’s role in Ireland’s fight for independence.
For those craving time in nature, on the route, a diversion to Lissycasey Cascades Walk offers a peaceful forest setting, where gentle waterfalls and shaded trails provide a perfect break from the road.
Ennis to Kildysart: Wellness & Coastal Forts
Following the Shannon Estuary Way west, the road meanders toward Kildysart, a quiet riverside village known for its relaxed atmosphere. Just outside the village, Retreat Yourself offers a wellness escape, with yoga, meditation, and serene estuary views—a perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature.
A short trip brings you to Labasheeda, where the Kilkerrin Battery Fort stands as a reminder of Ireland’s past coastal defences. Overlooking the estuary, this 18th-century military structure is steeped in history. Charm Bee Studio is both a cafe and a haven for creativity, where visitors can create and paint pottery and bring home a personalised piece of their craftsmanship.
Kildysart to Kilrush: Walled Gardens, Dolphin Encounters & Adventure
As you approach Kilrush, the estuary truly comes to life. Recognised as a Heritage Town, Kilrush has a rich maritime past, once bustling with merchant ships, traders, and fishermen. The town’s historic streets, grand Georgian buildings, and lively marina reflect its legacy as a key coastal settlement. Today, Kilrush blends its heritage charm with a vibrant waterfront, making it an essential stop on the Shannon Estuary Way.
A visit to the Vandeleur Walled Gardens and Visitor Centre is recommended – it is like stepping into a hidden oasis—once part of a grand 19th-century estate, the gardens are now beautifully restored, featuring vibrant floral displays, meandering paths, and peaceful seating areas.
Adjacent to the Vandeleur, the Kilrush Forest offers a woodland retreat waiting to be explored. Spanning over 400 acres, its walking and cycling trails wind through native and exotic trees, providing a tranquil escape just moments from the town centre.
For a truly exhilarating experience, West Clare Rib Adventures offers high-speed boat tours of the estuary, bringing you up close to hidden sea caves, marine life, and breathtaking coastal landscapes. This adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for an unforgettable perspective of the Shannon Estuary.
For those looking to uncover one of the Estuary’s most fascinating sites, a boat trip to Scattery Island is a must. This uninhabited island is a monastic treasure trove, home to a 12th-century round tower, medieval churches, and Napoleonic military ruins.
Back in Kilrush, the Kilrush Town Looped Walk is a great way to soak in the town’s lively atmosphere, leading you through the marina, historic streets, and waterfront.
For golf enthusiasts, Kilrush Golf Club offers a scenic 9-hole course, beautifully set along the estuary. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, the lush fairways and estuary backdrop make for a memorable round.
At the Shannon Dolphin & Wildlife Centre, visitors can learn about the resident bottlenose dolphins and the estuary’s rich marine life through interactive displays, research exhibits, and educational talks.
For those eager to see the dolphins in the wild, guided dolphin-watching boat trips depart from Kilrush Marina with Discover Dolphins. These tours take you out into the Shannon Estuary, where you can watch these playful creatures in their natural habitat—a breathtaking wildlife experience.
For those continuing their adventure beyond Clare, the Killimer to Tarbert Ferry provides a scenic 20-minute crossing into Kerry. The ferry offers a chance to reflect on the natural beauty of the Estuary, with dolphins sometimes seen playing in the water as you sail.
