Things to do in Mountshannon
FacebookClick on the Facebook Icon above to go to our Mountshannon News Facebook Page & Please Click on the Like Button
Mountshannon is a great spot for things to do, especially if you like outdoor pursuits or taking to the waters and the wilds.
There is a broad range of tourist facilities and activates within easy reach of Mountshannon. Leisure activities such as golf and boating are very popular with tourists. Fine food and wine is never far away and traditional Irish music can be heard in the bars most evenings throughout the summer.
The natural geography and terrain of the area allows for many leisure and sporting activities.
Golf: There is a nine hole golf course and eighteen hole pitch and putt about one mile from the village. The green fees are very reasonable and fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains can be had from the well-kept fairways.
Walking & Cycling: The backdrop of the Sliabh Aughty Mountains provides a beautiful place to go hiking or for a long cycle. In recent years a series of different walks have been marked out in the area. The system of trails is known as The East Clare Way. The trails are well signposted and of differing lengths so that they cater for most people. The local community was also involved in the Woodpark project which set up a series of walking treks in local woodland some years ago.
Woodland: The area in and around Mountshannon is heavily wooded. Although much is plantation there are several deciduous woods which facilitate woodland walks and cycles. The nearest is 'Woodpark', about 3/4 of a mile outside of the village along the 'Middle line'. This woodland is home to numerous forms of flora & fauna and is interspersed with carvings and sculpture from local artists. The streams here are managed in part by one of the local 'Angling Clubs' and have been developed into spawning beds for trout. More info on our Woodpark page.
Boating: The Lake provides great potential for fun. Boating and fishing are the two big activities and boats can be rented at the harbour. Lough Derg is a large lake and a boat trip around the bay or islands can take some time, but it's a great way to get in touch with the nature of Mountshannon.
Large cruisers can be rented nearby also combining both transport and accommodation.
Fishing is very good on the lake and a broad range of species can be caught. There are several angling supply shops locally and bait can be bought in Mountshannon itself. Some tackle can be rented along with boats. There are also several 'Ghillies' available in the area for those more competitive anglers. See this local fishing site to learn more.
Swimming: The harbour has shallow water swimming area ideal for children. It is semi-enclosed by a harbour wall and jetties and is attended by trained life guards in the summer season. Mountshannon Community Council in conjunction with Irish Water Safety have organised swimming lessons for the public from 8th August to 12th August in 2011. All are welcome to attend, just contact 061 – 926918 for more information.
Archaeology: The locality has some very interesting historical sights or is a good base to set out to see some. In the immediate area is a large selection of 'Enclosures' such as Ring forts, a Wedge Tomb (known locally as 'The Dolmen'), Lime Kilns, Kyle’s (Cillin or Children's burial grounds) and on Holy Island an extensive Monastic settlement established in the 8th Century. Further afield are a selection of churches, one hosting the 'East Clare Heritage Centre' and sporting its original 10th Century door frame. Also within 20km can be found Holy Wells, Mass Rocks and an ancient Stone Circle. Learn more at our Archaeology page
Aistear Inis Cealtra Public Park: The focal point of the village is the Aistear Iniscealtra, a project which embraces the history of the village. The development incorporates a large green area, amphitheatre, labyrinth garden (with 'sunken seated stone & hornbeam arbour'), a lake side 'Look-out' and an extensive maze area comprising assorted planting, hedging and stone walled courtyards. The courtyards display aspects of Irish spirituality through the ages with replica historical artefacts, carvings and pieces of sculpture. There are park benches and seating throughout.
Also beginning from the August Bank Holiday weekend the newly erected Playground will be officaly open and is located in the Aistear Park. There are swings, a slide and climbing frames and many more attractions.
The range of activities in Mountshannon is very diverse, but there is sure to be something to please everybody. One thing everybody can do when they visit Mountshannon is have fun!