The best traffic-free bike rides around Lough Derg

A designated recreational area on the shore of Lough Derg; there are picnic benches and a nice section of easily access lake shore. Water skiing and lake cruises are available seasonally and there's a large parking area. The lake shore has a walking trail, and the area is passed when walking the Lough Derg Way long distance trail.

Beautiful little harbor

The view of Lough Derg from here is truly something special. The gently rolling landscape alternates between green pastures, dense forests and scattered farms - all framed by the gentle waves of the lake. Sometimes clouds pass over the hills, giving the scenery an almost mystical touch, while on clear days the sun lights up the fields and makes the colors glow. As you cycle along the narrow roads, you can feel nature setting the pace here. Cows graze leisurely in the meadows and from time to time deer cross your path, making the moment all the more impressive. The changing sky ensures constant changes in the play of light - perfect for a little break to enjoy the view in peace. The path is a little bumpy here and there, but that's part of the experience. Such detours are worthwhile, especially if you want to lose yourself for a moment in the lush green and the peaceful sound of the wind. A place that has its own charm in any weather – be it the clear air in the morning or the gentle twilight at sunset.

As you pedal, the view opens up over the sparkling lake, framed by rolling hills. The deep blue of the water contrasts beautifully with the lush green of the surroundings and invites you to take a short break - perhaps to enjoy the view of the lake and the passing clouds. The route runs close to the shore so you can feel the fresh breeze from the water. The route has a pleasant mix of flat sections and gentle climbs that are a bit challenging but reward you with magnificent panoramas. Keep an eye out for the swans that often circle the shore here. They add a touch of idyll to the already picturesque view. The tour is best enjoyed in the morning hours when the light lies gently over the lake and there is little traffic.

When touring Killaloe, the charm of the town can best be captured on the banks of the canal. The route runs along the water and always offers a view over the river to Ballina and the historic Killaloe Bridge. The soothing rippling, the boats gently rocking and the lush green banks can be wonderfully enjoyed from the saddle. The town itself is full of small cafes and restaurants - an ideal place to take a break or start or end the tour. The road itself has a few bumpy spots, but the scenery easily makes up for that.

Garrykennedy Castle was built in the late 15th century on the banks of Lough Derg by the O'Kennedy and the O'Brien clans. The tower house was badly damaged by Cromwellian troops in the mid 17th century. Some stones from the rubble of the castle may have been used in the building of a new harbour in 1857. This is a gorgeous harbour with a modern marina to the east. There may not be much left of the castle but it is still a beautiful place to stop and relax, maybe even take a picnic.

Castlelough is west of Nenagh and 5 km ( 3 miles) from Portroe village. There is a car park, picnic tables, water skiing, fishing and cruises on the River Shannon. Castleough also has lakeshore walking trails through the conifer and broadleaf plantation.Castlelough is situated in the north west of County Tipperary on the banks of Lough Derg. It is part of Arra forest which includes 12 forest properties namely: Castlelough, Castletown, Townlough, Newtown, Leagane, Kilparteen (scattered Properties), Corbally, Coumbeg, Coumroe, Burgesbeg, Gortlassabrien and Scragg (Adjoining Properties). The total forest area of Arra forest is 808 hectares (1,997 acres) of primarily conifer species. The principal soil types are podzols, peats and gleys in the upland areas and more mineralised soils at lower elevations near Lough Derg. Castlelough is a designated recreation area in Arra Forest. The property is located on the shores of Lough Derg and enjoys scenic views and forest trails and is regularly used by Coilltes neighbours, locals and the general public. There is a car park, picnic tables, water skiing, fishing and cruises on the River Shannon. The Lough Derg Way is an important walking route which winds through Townlough, Castletown and Castlelough. Coillte’s open forest policy permits pedestrian access only to its forests (all signage must be adhered to). https://discoverloughderg.ie/castlelough/

The Graves of the Leinstermen standing stones consist of four menhirs. They are located in County Tipperary, Ireland, above Lough Derg, between the villages of Ballina and Portroe, on the western slope of the 463-meter-high Tountinna, a mountain in the Arra Mountains. A narrow, steep road leads from Portroe to the standing stones. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graves_of_the_Leinstermen