Situated in the Lough Derg Region of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and at the heart of the Lough Derg Blueway, the East Clare market town of Scariff is known for its rich heritage and maritime tradition.
Visitors can step back in time at the Cappabane Wedge Tomb, which is located 2 kilometres north of Scariff and is said to be 4000 years old. Daytrips are provided to Castlebawn Castle, a 16th century tower house located on a small island close to the shoreline in Scariff Bay.
Derg Isle Adventure Centre gives visitors the opportunity to kayak the scenic waterways of the Lower River Graney and the majestic waters of Lough Derg. Scariff Harbour is a stop-off point for anyone sailing up and down the River Shannon and it also is popular with anglers.
You can take the 9km-long trail from Scariff to Mountshannon via Scariff Bay, taking in views of Lough Derg and Inis Cealtra (Holy Island). The Ballycroum Forest Loop Walk is a 7km route passing through a forest and open ground with a variety of wildlife and ancient tombs. For those seeking a tougher challenge, the East Clare Way is a circular route that takes hikers on a 180-kilometre journey through the Slieve Aughty Mountains, the hills and valleys of East Clare, and along the banks of the River Shannon and Lough Derg.
East Clare is known for its many artisan craft and food producers. Irish Seed Savers in Scariff is Ireland’s largest organic seed farm and heritage orchard. The 20-acre site offers a fun day out for the family with its garden centre, children’s trail, and National Living Seed Bank featuring over 800 varieties of organic, open pollinated heritage seeds. The spirit of community and sustainability runs through all activities at the East Clare Community Co-op.
