Limerick is the location of the final bridge crossing of the Shannon River (and tunnel under it). The final part of the route can be driven on the northern bank of the river to Loop Head, or on the southern bank to Kerry Head (although there is a regular car ferry crossing available too across the estuary if you wish to start on the south bank and finish on the north!)
Limerick to Kerry Head Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours
Locations on Route: Limerick, Askeaton, Foynes, Glin, Tarbert (car ferry), Ballylongford, Astee, Beale, Ballybunion, Ballyduff, Kerry Head
Highlights:
- King John’s Castle – 13th century castle meets 21st century technology
- Flying Boat and Maritime Museum – contains the worlds only replica flying boat and a fascinating insight into the Shannon Estuary
- Carrigafoyle Castle – beautiful example of a tower castle in a stunning setting by the waterside
- Ballybunion Beach – wide sandy beach with cliff walks, castle ruins and views to both Kerry Head and Loop Head
- Kerry Head – where the Shannon Estuary meets the Atlantic Ocean
Limerick to Loop Head Approximate Driving Time: 2.5 hours
Locations on Route: Limerick, Bunratty, Shannon, Clarecastle, Kildysart, Labasheeda, Killimer, Kilrush, Moyasta, Carrigaholt, Kilbaha, Loop Head
Highlights:
- King John’s Castle – 13th century castle meets 21st century technology
- Bunratty Castle and Folk Park – restored to it’s medieval splendor inside and out
- Shannon Estuary Dolphin Boat Trip – Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins reside at the mouth of the Shannon
- Loop Head Light House – where the Shannon Estuary meets the Atlantic Ocean
Alternative routes and delightful detours: The locations above involve choosing either the northern or southern shore of the Shannon Estuary and finishing your Shannon Scenic Drive at the Atlantic Ocean where it meets Kerry Head or Loop Head. Alternatively you may prefer to start on one side of the estuary and take the car ferry at Tarbert/Killimer to cross to the other side of the estuary.
If you would like to explore this part of the Shannon Scenic Drive more consider completing the Shannon Estuary Drive which takes in both sides of the estuary. Alternatively add in a delightful detour to your route such as to Lough Gur, Adare village, or the towns of Listowel, Ennis or Kilkee.
Explore Limerick to Athlone (includes Lough Derg)
Take your time, take in the scenery and take home amazing memories. What are you waiting for? Start exploring the Shannon Scenic Drive today…
Gallery Scenic Stops Practicalities
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