The Shannon Region, the hinterland of Shannon International Airport comprises counties Clare and Limerick and substantial parts of the midlands in Offaly and Tipperary. The River Shannon weaves a meandering course through the heart of the region, broadening near its mouth to form the island-studded Lough Derg, 40 km (25 miles) long and surrounded by beautiful mountains. Lakes, rivers and the sea offer superb fishing, from shark to salmon.

There is so much to do in the Shannon Region, from exploring the River Shannon by canoe from Banagher, Skydiving in Tipperary, enjoying a nostalgic flying experience on board a full scale model of a Boeing B314 at Foynes Flying Boat Museum in Limerick and riding the waves in the seaside resort of Lahinch.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park centres on the great medieval castle, restored and furnished and serving banquets nightly and surrounded by a superb collection of reconstructed 19th century buildings. Shannon Heritage's other day visitor attractions include King John’s Castle, Craggaunowen –The Living Past Experience, Knappogue Castle & Walled Garden, Dunguaire Castle, Lough Gur Stone Age Centre and Brian Boru Heritage Centre, Killaloe.

Experience an enchanting evening of good food and entertainment at one of the three Medieval Castle Banquets – Bunratty Castle, Knappogue Castle, or Dunguaire Castle.  If it’s traditional Irish entertainment with delicious home cooked food you’re looking for, you’ll enjoy none better than Traditional Irish Night at the Corn Barn at Bunratty Folk Park.  Nowhere else can you experience the fun of what the Irish do best – Enjoy themselves…….!  For further information and to book online visit www.shannonheritage.com

You may go underground to enjoy both Ailwee and Doolin caves and admire the natural sculpture of stalactites in a silent world. Archaeologists have revealed how the people of Ireland lived in the distant past.  Replicas of their homes welcome visitors to the beautiful lakeside settings at Lough Gur and at Craggaunowen, where there is also a craft centre and live demonstrations of ancient ways.

The Shannon Region is home to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, a monumental and awesome experience with breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the fantastic visitor centre with Atlantic Edge Exhibition area.  The sheltered waters of the Shannon Estuary are home to a community of about 100 Bottlenose Dolphins, one of the largest ‘pods’ in Europe. These beautiful creatures can be observed from boat trips operating from Carrigaholt and Kilrush.

All this and much, much more to be discovered in the Shannon Region.