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EB 2008 brochure p154
20/9/07
15:03
Page 154
Boating in Europe
Seans Bar, the oldest pub in Ireland, Athlone
Ireland
Ï Your choice of bases
Belturbet Lough Erne Portumna Lough Derg Carrick-on-Shannon River Shannon Your cruise in the Emerald Isle offers timeless views around every corner - countless shades of Fgreen, and ever-changing skies. With almost 540 kilometers of stunning lakes and rivers to cruise, and much to explore along the way, youll want to take your time, and take it all in.The locations of our three bases have been carefully selected to allow for a wide variety of cruising experiences. No other country in Europe has such an expanse of water dedicated to the pleasures of cruising, angling and holidaying on the water in total tranquility.The scenery is breathtaking, and the Irish hospitality is legendary - we guarantee youll feel a million miles away from the real world. Lough Erne This magnificent 70 kilometre-long lake is studded with islands and rocky coves, and home to countless birds such as swans, grebes and herons.The fishing is superb here too, as you might imagine. A fourhour cruise from our base at Belturbet brings you to Enniskillen, the historic county town of Fermanagh, at the narrowest point of the Lough. Here you can while away an afternoon visiting the castle, the specialist craft workshops in the old butter market or Castle Coole on the outskirts of the town. Lough Derg The Portumna base is situated at the northerly end of Lough Derg, one of the largest lakes in Ireland, offering plentiful angling for those who want to watch the world go by, or windsurfing and canoeing for those of a more energetic disposition.You can choose to head north towards Athlone, cruising serenely right past the ancient monastery and castle at Clonmacnoise.You will undoubtedly want to stop and explore here, as this former pilgrimage site is right on the river Shannon, at the point where it crossed the main east/west roadway across Ireland in days gone by. Heading south from Portumna, across the lake towards Killaloe, visit any one of the many well-developed and easily-accessible tourist harbours around its shores to stock up on provisions, boast about your catch or just pass the time of day with the locals. Ireland is under an hours ferry trip away from Britain, and yet it feels like a million miles.Take time out to experience this beautiful country, and remember what it felt like to have no cares in the world. Shannon-Erne Waterway This course of the River Woodford, linking the Shannon and Erne river systems, was renovated and opened up in 1994, allowing boats to once again navigate this charming waterway and share its peaceful and unspoilt views. Passing under each of the 34 stone bridges that arch over you on your cruise out of Carrick-on-Shannon, and through each of the 16 restored locks, you are caught in the timeless beauty of an Ireland from long ago. River Shannon This beautiful river is a joy to navigate despite its length, there are few locks, as it rises only 76m above sea level.The wetlands along its banks are internationally renowned and are home to many species of birds and wildflowers.Youll pass through quaint towns and villages all along the length of the river, where you can stop off at any of the pubs and restaurants for a glass of Guinness and some of the traditional good craic and music that this region is renowned for. Cruise north from our base in Carrick-on-Shannon and visit the beautiful Lough Key, where you can moor up and walk the wooded trails of the forest park, visiting ruined churches and the 19th century island castle. Regional food and drink There is much to savour about Irelands food and drink.The best place to experience its gastronomic delights is in the pub, the heart of any community. Be sure to try Irish stew or bacon and cabbage, accompanied with soda bread or champ, and washed down with a hearty glass of stout.
Seans Bar, Athlone
Moorings at Clonmacnois, River Shannon
154 To book call 0844 499 3377 or visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/europe-boating AZ information pages 186188 Travel Details pages 180181
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