Business Spotlight – Shannon Estuary Way
The Shannon Estuary Way is filled with amazing homegrown businesses along the route from accommodation, eateries and shopping outlets to historical sites and tourist attractions. In this blog post, we will explore some of the great businesses which make The Shannon Estuary a vibrant exploration for tourists to enjoy!
The Shannon Estuary Way is a collective of six different sections spanning three counties: Clare, Limerick and Kerry. The sections include:
- Limerick to Clarecastle
- Clarecastle to Labasheeda
- Labasheeda to Kilrush
- Kilrush to Foynes
- Foynes to Curraghchase
- Curraghchase to Limerick
Scattery Island, Kilrush
1. Limerick to Clarecastle
Limerick to Clarecastle is the first section of The Shannon Estuary Way. Great businesses are abundant along this section of the way, including Treaty City Brewery, Limerick and Shannon Aviation Museum, Shannon.
Business Spotlight: Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park will bring you back in time to the country’s medieval era – the kids are going to love this one! Bunratty Castle is a 15th-century tower house. It is the most restored castle in Ireland, which allows visitors to feel immersed in medieval life. Visitors can indulge in a medieval banquet with live performances throughout the meal from singers and dancers, which takes place in the castle's Great Hall. The Folk park recreates rural and urban life from the 19th century with old-style shops and homes, which can be visited, as well as a live petting farm.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
2. Clarecastle to Labasheeda
As you begin to head further west on your adventure of The Shannon Estuary Way, there is so many wonderful businesses such as the Estuary Way Café in Ballynacally or Annie’s Café in Kildysart. As well as unique accommodation options like Beds of Silk, a tranquil glamping site nestled in Labasheeda village.
Business Spotlight: Shannon Estuary Way Retreat
The Shannon Estuary Way Retreat is a luxury wellness retreat located along the scenic Shannon Estuary Way outside the quaint village of Ballynacally. This retreat centre offers the ultimate escapism set in a serene setting overlooking the rolling hills of County Clare and the estuary’s blue waters. The retreat centre offers a wide range of treatments from massage therapy to yoga – there is something for everything, even kids' yoga! It is the perfect pitstop to soak up the beautiful surroundings and refresh yourself before heading off to complete the way!
Shannon Estuary Way Retreat
3. Labasheeda to Kilrush
Labasheeda to Kilrush takes you through the quaint villages of Kilmurray McMahon and Knock, which is home to the beautiful Knock Pier and The Fisherman’s Hut Restaurant. The Shannon Ferry which brings you across to Tarbert is on this section of the way, as well as The Vandeleur Walled Gardens which is rich in history and surrounded by the most stunning wooded walks, perfect for the family!
Business Spotlight: Beag Café
Beag Café is a brand new café which is located on Henry Street in Kilrush, serving the most sumptuous, toasted sandwiches, on fresh sourdough bread. These are toasted sandwiches like never tasted before – trust us, it is well worth a visit to this place. A perfect lunchtime stop!
Beag Cafe
4. Kilrush to Foynes
Some may argue this is one of the most scenic sections of the drive as you get to hop on board the wonderful Shannon Ferries. This is a 20-minute car ferry that will connect you to County Kerry.
Business Spotlight: Glin Castle
Glin Castle located just outside the village of Glin, is a breathtaking castle hotel on the banks of the Shannon River. If you have the time to stop off for a night or two it is well worth the stay in Glin Castle. Step back in time with each bedroom uniquely designed in the era of the 1200s. Sleep like a Knight overlooking the stunning gardens or estuary. Enjoy a round of golf or dine in the restaurant and taste some of the finest local foods.
Glin Castle
5. Foynes to Curraghchase
Stop off in the town of Asketon on your next section of the way and explore its castle which dates from 1199, or stop by The Belfrey for some lunch or dinner, before continuing on to Curraghchase, where you can let the kids go free!!
Business Spotlight: Curraghchase Forest Park Coillte
Curraghchase Forest Park is home to over 300 hectares of green spaces, wonderful wildlife, lakes, woodlands and even play areas for kids. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, with a picnic. Enjoy the natural beauty Limerick’s countryside has to offer. It was once home to the Vere family and some ruins are still on site which can be explored!
Curraghchase Forest Park Coillte
6. Curraghchase to Limerick
For the final leg of the journey, why not stop off before heading back to Limerick City in the stunning Celtic Park & Garden Self-Accommodation? If you would prefer to go straight back to the bustling city of Limerick, where there is no end to activity for all the family, you can enjoy the numerous accommodation options, such as The Strand Hotel and The George Hotel. This vibrant city is the perfect way to complete your trip to The Shannon Estuary Way!
Business Spotlight: The International Rugby Experience
This one is a great day out for sports enthusiasts, located in the heart of Limerick City on O’Connell Street. This new interactive rugby experience will have the kids (and adults) reminiscing for years to come! Experience the art of rugby over six different inspiring zones. End the tour on the sixth floor which offers stunning views of Limerick city. Oh – don’t forget your souvenirs on the way out in the gift shop!
The International Rugby Experience, Limerick