Linger on the Shannon-Erne Waterway

Gentle rhythm of the waterways

Starting in Carrick-on-Shannon, head northwest to Lough Key Forest and Activity Park. From ziplining through the trees to kayaking past the ruins of the medieval McDermott’s Castle on the lake, there’s an adventure to suit everyone’s pace here. Then, cruise to the charming village of Drumshanbo to walk the Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk, before a tour and tasting at The Shed Distillery. At the close by Lough Allen Adventure Centre, relax in a range of saunas and hot tubs in their Outdoor Spa and Wellness Centre.

Back on the water, journey on to Belturbet, which has a well-facilitated marina. Cavan Adventure Centre is close by, if canoe tours, lake fishing and yoga in the woods pique your interest. “We see slow tourism as a chance to truly connect with nature, with stillness, and with yourself,” says Nuala from the centre. Don’t miss the picture-perfect Clough Oughter Castle, a medieval gem nestled on a tiny island in Lough Oughter. They say Cavan has 365 lakes, one for every day of the year! So meander as you please in this maze of waterways.

Or take on more local advice from Nuala: “Cavan’s lakelands are a hidden gem for travellers looking to press pause. Whether it’s paddling to a remote island or cycling along quiet country roads, there’s a gentle rhythm here that invites you to slow down and simply be.”

Ireland’s only island town

Next, cruise north along Upper Lough Erne – the jewel of the Fermanagh Lakelands – to the island town gem of Enniskillen. En route, catch a glimpse of wild deer and ancient yew trees on the lush Crom Estate.

As Louise from Fermanagh Lakelands Tourism notes: “Visitors are invited to explore Enniskillen slowly, whether by wandering its historic streets, paddling between islands, or mooring up by boat for a leisurely stay.”

The mighty Enniskillen Castle is a sight to behold as you cruise up the River Erne before mooring in the marina. Hungry? You’ve come to the right place: Enniskillen is a foodie hotspot. Enjoy the town’s culinary delights on the Enniskillen Taste Experience, a guided walking tour that stops at local producers and eateries. Rural Sip offers a different experience, taking in hidden gem pubs across County Fermanagh. For a local tipple in town, cosy up in a snug in the Victorian-era Blakes of the Hollow, or catch a traditional music session in Charlie’s Bar, famed for its great pints of Guinness.

For something a little different, try a hydro-bike or eWater-scooter courtesy of Erne Adventures and explore Enniskillen in an eco-friendly and fun way. Blue Green Yonder offers more traditional canoe, kayak and paddleboard tours around town.

A lot of lough to explore

There’s much to see and do around Enniskillen, too. On the waters of Lower Lough Erne, cruise to the early Christian monastic settlement on Devenish Island, or let Erne Water Taxi take you there on a tour. Their all-electric Island Discovery tour around Enniskillen town is also worth hopping aboard.

Tour the Boatyard Distillery further north along the lough, it’s Ireland’s first distillery to achieve B Corp certification, a movement that strives for quality social and environmental business standards. Or get up close to the timeless craftsmanship on show at Belleek Pottery, which dates back to 1849. Patricia from the Belleek Visitor Centre outlines the allure: “Here, traditional methods are used to create handmade pieces that are known across the world. Each piece is a testament to time and dedication, reflecting the spirit of slow adventure.

Lusty Beg Island Resort and Spa is an ideal retreat on a 75-acre private island on the lake. From tennis and archery to wildlife-rich nature trails, Lusty Beg mixes relaxation and adventure wonderfully. As Rebecca from the resort notes: “Lusty Beg offers guests a chance to disconnect from the demands of daily life and reconnect with one another.” Nearby Finn Lough dials up the luxury with sumptuous spa experiences in a lakeside forest, while their slow food ethos and focus on local, seasonal ingredients means dining here is a joy.

Venture away from the lake to uncover more hidden gems, from the 18th-century opulence of Florence Court to the subterranean wonders of the Marble Arch Caves. Marble Arch’s own Michelle explains: “With a gentle pace, rich storytelling and a deep connection to the natural world, this low-impact tour is slow tourism at its finest – unhurried, enriching and rooted in the timeless rhythm of the earth.”

Animal lovers should visit the Fermanagh Fun Farm, a social enterprise that’s home to over 100 rescued animals, including donkeys and rabbits. For completists, embark on the epic Lough Erne Pilgrim Way, which links 14 significant heritage sites around Lough Erne, from the medieval centre of learning on Belleisle to the mysterious stone figures on White Island.

Getting around

The direct train from Dublin to Carrick-on-Shannon runs several times daily and takes just over two hours. See Irish Rail for more info. Swap the water for scenic cycling trails in the towns of Ballinamore and Ballyconnell – bike hire is available from Electric Bike Trails. Enniskillen is a compact island town that’s best explored on foot.

Accommodation

The Enniskillen Hotel offers four-star comfort in the bustling town centre. For all-out luxury, treat yourself to a lavish stay at the five-star Lough Erne Resort, which features not one but two pristine golf courses. Prefer something homelier? Book The Seven Horseshoes Hotel in Belturbet.

Staying longer

Journey south along the River Shannon to the town of Athlone, a buzzing hub located right in the centre of Ireland. Explore idyllic riverside walks or cycle the Old Rail Trail to uncover the surrounding lush countryside. Soak up local history at the medieval Athlone Castle, then drink it in at Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s oldest pub! Don’t miss the quaint Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum, where Charlie and Bridie Finneran have collected over 7,500 objects from Ireland’s rural past.