Portumna RETURN 7-Night Itinerary
Set off from Portumna on a round-trip cruise across Lough Derg and the gentle River Shannon. Moor at welcoming harbours from Terryglass to Garrykennedy and Dromineer, wander the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina, and from Mountshannon join a boat to Inis Cealtra, a sixth century monastic island. Round things off at Portumna Castle and Gardens. Evenings bring hearty meals, music and warm pubs, while unhurried days reveal rich birdlife and the easy rhythm of Shannon cruising.
Suggested Itinerary
Arrive at base
3pm-5pm
After you have arrived and checked-in, we’ll show you to your boat as quickly as possible. Spend time settling in, freshen up and await your pre-departure briefing which will be given by one of our base technicians. They will familiarise you with the boat’s domestic systems and give you a hands-on demonstration of the boat controls and how to operate it. They will make sure you are comfortable and confident controlling the boat, as well as navigating the waterway, before you set off.
Food for the journey: With both the Co-Op Mart and Aldi grocery stores just a short drive from our base, we recommend picking up a few essentials for any meals you plan to eat on board before you set off – just make sure to allow yourself a little time to pop into town and stock up.
Portumna > Terryglass
5:30pm-6pm
Approx. 25 mins
Make your way to your first overnight mooring in Terryglass harbour, only a 25-minute cruise away. With only Portumna Swing Bridge to pass through, this easygoing stretch of water is perfect for getting into the swing of things.
*Please note: If you’re running short on time and won’t make it to Terryglass before dark, simply spend your first evening in Portumna and take this time to familiarise yourself with your boat.
Dinner at Paddy’s Bar, Terryglass
7pm-9pm
Settle in for casual dining at this much-loved, family-run pub, where local charm and a lively atmosphere come together. Paddy’s has been welcoming patrons for almost two hundred years, and whether sharing relaxed plates or raising a glass with the locals, warm hospitality is part of the experience.
Make a booking: paddysbarterryglass.com | +353 67 22147
For a more formal dining experience, try The Derg Inn, next door.
Overnight in Terryglass
Breakfast on board
8am-9am
Explore Terryglass
9am-10:30am
Terryglass is a pretty, welcoming village that invites a gentle pause. The village stands on the site of a sixth century monastic settlement. Only small traces remain, yet the sense of history adds real character to your stop.
Terryglass > Garrykennedy
11am – 1pm
Approx. 2 hrs
Make your way towards Garrykennedy harbour to moor up for lunch. With wide lake views and a leafy park beside the quay, it’s an ideal spot for a scenic lunch on board.
Lunch on board
1pm-2:30pm
Explore Garrykennedy
3pm-6:30pm
Step ashore in the quiet harbour village of Garrykennedy, once home to the Kennedy clan. Stroll up to the ruins of the medieval castle and enjoy views over Lough Derg, one of Ireland’s largest lakes. Settle into the lovely park beside the harbour for a leisurely afternoon. Children can make the most of the play area while you wander the lakeside paths or relax on the green. Round off your visit with a drink in one of the welcoming village pubs before heading off for dinner.
Dinner at Larkins Music Pub, Garrykennedy
7pm-9pm
Reserve a table at this award-winning lakeside pub and restaurant. Enjoy generous, well-cooked dishes, a welcoming bar and traditional Irish music that sets the tone for an easygoing evening by the water.
Make a booking: larkins.ie | +353 67 23232
Overnight in Garrykennedy
Breakfast on board
9am-10am
Garrykennedy > Killaloe
10am-12:30pm
Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins
Make your way into Killaloe and moor up for the night. Once settled, stroll over the old stone bridge into Ballina for lunch and a little time to explore.
Lunch at Flanagan’s on the Lake, Ballina
1pm-2:30pm
Set on the water’s edge in Ballina-Killaloe, Flanagan’s is an award-winning gastropub with sweeping views across Lough Derg. Settle on the terrace on sunny days or choose a window table and enjoy an extensive menu with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The bar is well stocked, and the on-site whiskey tower hosts exclusive tasting sessions for a memorable midday experience.
For bookings: flanagansonthelake.ie | +353 61 622 790
Explore Killaloe and Ballina
3pm-6:30pm
Twin towns on either side of the River Shannon, Killaloe and Ballina invite an easy afternoon of wandering between waterside streets and pretty quays. Begin at St Flannan’s Cathedral, a remarkable 12th century church still in use today, where the architecture and sense of history are a highlight.
Stroll across the old stone bridge for sweeping river views, pausing to watch boats pass beneath you. Take time to explore the lanes on both sides, drop into a café for a pick me up, and, if you are interested in local heritage, step inside the historic Roman Catholic church before returning to the harbour.
Dinner at Brian Boru on the Hill, Ballina
7pm-9pm
Soak up the easygoing buzz at Brian Boru on the Hill, where friendly service, generous plates and well-poured pints make for a relaxed evening above the river. Settle in for comforting Irish favourites and, on some nights, live music that adds to the warm atmosphere.
Make a booking: +353 61 374 458
Or for something special, try Tuscany Bistro, to experience a journey through the rich flavours of Italy. For bookings: tuscany.ie | +32 (0)61 376 888 (only open Friday-Sunday).
Overnight in Killaloe
Breakfast on board
9am-10:30am
Killaloe > Scarriff
10:30am-12:30pm
Approx. 2 hrs
Scarriff is a popular stopping point for boats on the Shannon. Although the Scarriff River is narrow and winding as it flows through the town before joining Lough Derg, it is easy to navigate and makes for a quaint, enjoyable experience.
Lunch on board
1pm-2pm
Explore Tuamgraney
2pm-7pm
Make Tuamgraney your afternoon stop. It is a pleasant 20-minute walk or a six-minute cycle from Scarriff Harbour, but start with the highlight (just a short taxi ride away) at the Irish Seed Savers Association. Wander through twenty acres of orchards and heritage gardens, learn how rare varieties are protected, and enjoy the space to explore nature at your own pace. Kids will love this too! Find out more: +353 61 921 866
Back in the village, visit the heritage centre, then step inside St Cronin’s Church set within its tenth century grounds. Follow with a sweet stop at Wilde Irish Chocolates for a hot chocolate or a treat to take on board, and browse beautiful textiles at McKernan Woollen Mills near your dinner stop.
Dinner at Nuala’s Bar & Restaurant, Tuamgraney
7pm-9pm
A village favourite since 1850, Nuala’s pairs a friendly bar with hearty, well-cooked dishes in a cosy setting. Settle in for a relaxed evening among locals and visitors, and enjoy the easygoing charm that makes this spot a staple in Tuamgraney.
For bookings: nualas.ie | +353 61 921 249
Overnight in Scarriff
Breakfast on board
9am-10:30am
Scarriff > Mountshannon
10:30am-12pm
Approx. 1 hr 30 mins
Once moored up, allow yourself some time to stroll into town for lunch.
Lunch at berrytree café, Mountshannon
1pm-2:30pm
Settle in at berrytree café for fresh, homemade goodness. This much-loved spot is known for top-quality bakes and savoury plates made from scratch with excellent ingredients. Try the toasted sandwiches and a slice of something sweet, or choose a few treats from the counter for a relaxed light lunch.
Top tip: pick up a couple of homemade bakes to enjoy on board for breakfast tomorrow. If you’d like to get in touch: +353 87 167 8203
Explore Inis Cealtra (Holy Island)
3pm-6pm
Join a guided passenger boat from Mountshannon Harbour to Inis Cealtra, a sixth century monastic island rich in history and atmosphere. Private moorings are not available at the island, so you will need to book with a local operator. Once ashore, explore at your own pace. Your guide will introduce the site during the crossing, then you can wander the ruins and enjoy the lake views before returning to the boat.
Book a tour: Contact – Holy Island Boat Trips | +353 (0)86 87 49 710 | gerardmmadden@gmail.com
Dinner at The Snug Pizzeria, Mountshannon
7pm-9pm
Great for eating in or takeaways! The Snug Pizzeria not only has top-notch pizzas, but also a great wine selection to enjoy alongside your meal. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For takeaway order: Menu | +353 61 926 826
Overnight in Mountshannon
Breakfast on board
9am-10am
Explore Mountshannon
10am-12pm
Just a short walk from the harbour, Mountshannon is a graceful eighteenth-century model village completed in 1742. Tree lined streets and uniform architecture give it an easy elegance, and in summer the waterfront comes alive with water activities.
If you are visiting in late May or early June around the Bank Holiday weekend, the Mountshannon Arts Festival brings music, art and performance to the village. The Community Market takes place on the first Saturday of each month.
Top tip: Keep an eye on the skies as you stroll; white tailed eagles are often seen over Lough Derg, making this a favourite with birdwatchers.
Mountshannon > Dromineer
12pm-1pm
Approx. 1 hr
Lunch on board
1pm-2:30pm
Explore Dromineer
3pm-6pm
Step ashore in the lakeside village of Dromineer and begin at the harbour beside Lough Derg Yacht Club, one of Ireland’s oldest sailing clubs. Stroll along the shore to the thirteenth century castle ruins for wide views across Lough Derg. Younger crew can enjoy the playground close to the quay, and the village is a handy starting point for gentle walks and cycle rides on quiet lanes and lakeside paths.
Dinner at The Whiskey Still, Dromineer
7pm-9pm
A much-loved lakeside pub with views across Lough Derg, The Whiskey Still pairs warm hospitality with generous, well-cooked dishes. Be prepared for a relaxed evening by the water and, on some nights, traditional music adds to the atmosphere. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
For bookings: +353 67 24129
Overnight in Dromineer
Breakfast on board
9am-10am
Dromineer > Portumna
10am – 1pm
Approx. 3 hrs
Your journey from Dromineer back to Portumna follows the same route you took at the start of your trip (but seen from a whole new perspective). With the scenery unfolding in reverse, familiar sights take on a fresh charm, offering a different angle to enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Lunch on board
1pm-2pm
Explore Portumna
2pm-6:30pm
Begin your visit at Portumna Castle and Gardens, built in the 17th century by the powerful De Burgo family. Wander through the ground floor of the castle before stepping outside to explore the elegant formal gardens and the charming walled kitchen garden. Guided tours are available and add extra depth to your visit, though these should be booked in advance. Book a tour: Portumna Castle and Gardens | Heritage Ireland
Just a short distance from the marina, Portumna Golf Club offers a scenic 18-hole course set within Portumna Forest Park, where you may even spot deer among the trees. Visitors are welcome, with equipment rent and a relaxed clubhouse available.
Dinner at Modena Restaurant, Portumna
7pm-9pm
For your final night, enjoy a relaxed meal at Modena Restaurant, a family-run spot in the heart of Portumna. Just a short 10-minute walk from the marina, it’s known for its mix of Irish, Indian and European cuisine, served with friendly hospitality in a welcoming setting.
Make a booking: +353 90 975 9568
Another option, a little further from the base and just across the bridge, is The Ferry Inn Bar and Restaurant.
Overnight in Portumna
Breakfast on board
7:30am-8:30am
Depart Portumna
9am
10 night alternative
Booked a few extra nights? Once back in Portumna, head north along the River Shannon for a gentle extension that takes in Banagher, Shannonbridge and the storied ruins of Clonmacnoise. Moor in Banagher for a relaxed evening, then continue to Shannonbridge to explore the nineteenth century fort and sample local whiskey before setting off for Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites. Allow up to three hours for the visitor centre and its audiovisual presentation, the round towers, high crosses and cathedral ruins, all set against sweeping views of the river.
This itinerary is a suggestion only
This suggested itinerary is an indication of what could be accomplished, and your ability to accomplish it, is not a contractual obligation of Le Boat. Le Boat is unable to guarantee when your pre-departure briefing will take place and in some cases it will not be given until the morning after your arrival. In these instances, you will need to adapt the itinerary outlined to accommodate a later departure. All cruising distances and times are approximations and are subject to local navigation restrictions at the time you cruise, planned or otherwise, which may also require you to deviate from the itinerary shown. Please check advertised opening times of sights, attractions and restaurants to avoid disappointment – some may need to be booked in advance. All meals, entry fees and tour tariffs are payable at your own expense. Attractions, restaurants and even locks and/or stretches of the waterway may be closed or can close without notice.
We’d love to hear from you
We’ve tried our very best to ensure the accuracy of the information we’ve provided. If you have followed all or some of this itinerary and have found something isn’t quite right, or perhaps you have some helpful tips and pointers that we could add which might be useful to your fellow boaters, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at: itineraries@leboat.com
Image credits
Paddy’s Bar Terryglass – paddysbarterryglass.com | Kieran Campbell, CC BY-SA 2.0 – commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=13581878, via Wikimedia Commons | Tuscany Bistro – tuscany.ie | Nuala’s – nualas.ie | Cliodhnaoleary, CC BY-SA 4.0 – creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/, via Wikimedia Commons | tower10, CC BY-SA 3.0 – creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons | Mike Searle – Castles of Munster: Dromineer, Tipperary | Irish Seed Savers Association – facebook.com/irishseedsavers