Lough Derg Blueway

Overview

Discover 160 km of paddling trails, set against the beautiful shoreline and soaring hills of Lough Derg. Surrounded by picturesque towns and villages, Lough Derg is popular with adventurers of all levels of ability. Experience the Lough by kayak, canoe or Stand Up Paddle Board, or try a unique activity such as water biking – there are countless ways to enjoy the water.

Novices can relax, drift and explore one of the quieter Stay and Play paddling areas, or book a guided paddle with an experienced instructor from one of the providers below. Most allow you to rent everything you need, or bring your own equipment. Or, if you’re confident with independent paddling, choose from 21 self-guided paddling trails, each with different views, distances and difficulty levels.

Off the water, there’s plenty to explore by foot or by bike, with gorgeous walks and hikes, historic sites such as Lackeen Castle and thriving local towns and villages. Lough Derg is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed eagles, so keep an eye out for a sighting. With astounding natural beauty, activities to suit every interest and local culture, cuisine and entertainment to enjoy, Lough Derg is an unforgettable adventure.

All of the trails can be undertaken in either direction. You should remain within 50 meters of the shore and be aware that water conditions, wind and visibility can change, especially in open water areas, so get a weather forecast before setting out.

Canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, and open water swimming are adventure sports. When you go paddling go in at least a group of three and follow the five points below to stay safe:

Planning – Plan your trip well in advance by consulting with the trail website and local providers.

Experience – Ensure the trail is a suitable match for your group’s experience. If you are inexperienced use a local guide.

Conditions – Consult the weather forecast in advance and only go canoeing in favourable weather conditions, in force two wind conditions or less.

Equipment – Always wear an approved buoyancy aid. Wear a helmet on Grade 2 and 3 trails. Bring suitable clothing – preferably a wetsuit – and equipment to deal with an emergency. Always wear a SUP leash.

Emergencies – Ensure everyone in your group can swim to the bank or shore in the event of a capsize. Be ready and equipped to help one another if someone should get into trouble.

Users of these trails do so at their own judgement and risk. If you are new to paddling, book a guide with a local provider or club.

Wind Safety

Lough Derg is exposed to the wind especially from the south so always stay within 50 meters of the shore, get a weather forecast and use the trails only in winds of force 2 or less www.met.ie/forecasts/inland-lakes.asp

Recreation inflatables can be unsafe in wind and should not be used on these trails. Open canoes may also be difficult to manage in wind.

Trails

Whether you prefer an adventure paddling in water, the winding paths, or the open trails, the Shannon Blueway offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Grade	Beginner (Simple waters)	Intermediate (Moderate waters)	Advanced (Challenging waters)
Suitability	Ability to swim essential. For a Beginner/Novice, prior training with a club, or booking with a competent activity provider, is highly recommended.	Ability to swim essential. Ability to undertake basic paddling strokes, self-rescue and navigate confidently using a map. Booking with a competent activity provider, is essential.	Ability to swim essential. Ability to undertake advanced paddling strokes, self-rescue and navigate confidently using a map. Practical experience of moving water eddies, standing waves, stoppers and route selection.
Conditions	Very slow-moving rivers / canals. Small lakes which do not become rough when conditions change.	Slow moving rivers without obstruction. Lakes which can become Challenging Waters in windy conditions.	Rivers with simple obstructions and places where the flow accelerates. Stoppers and small drops can be present. Lakes which become rough in windy conditions.