7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Shannon, Ireland — Where You Can See Sceneries Straight Out of a Wonderland

Ireland is a mystical country so enchanting that there are even rumors of fairies living there. It is home to many tourist spots with breathtaking and magical scenery. One such place is the city of Shannon in County Clare, located in western Ireland. With Shannon International Airport nearby, it is a convenient area for travelers. The main attractions here are the dynamic natural landscapes that have remained since prehistoric times, such as the Stone Age. This time, we’ll introduce seven must-visit tourist spots, including these incredible geographical sites.

1. The Burren

When sightseeing around Shannon, one place you shouldn’t miss is The Burren. Located about 40 minutes by car from Shannon, the Burren is a mysterious tourist spot with vast lands covered in endless limestone rocks.

Here, you’ll find a unique ancient monument known as the "Poulnabrone Dolmen" or "Giant's Table", believed to be a tombstone over 5,000 years old. Its strange and mysterious appearance makes it a must-see historical site in Ireland.

The Burren is also home to many beautiful butterflies and rare plants that can’t be found elsewhere. Out of the 32 butterfly species discovered in Ireland, 28 can be seen in the Burren! So, when you visit, be sure to look out for these butterflies and plants too.

2. Cliffs of Moher

As popular as The Burren, another must-visit attraction near Shannon is the Cliffs of Moher. These dramatic cliffs rise 200 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and ranking as one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations.

There’s a long walking trail along the cliffs where you can enjoy the stunning ocean scenery and watch seabirds nesting on the cliffs. You’ll also find O’Brien’s Tower on top of the cliffs, and on a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands floating on the sea from there.

When visiting, be sure to bring a rain jacket. The winds around the cliffs are extremely strong, making umbrellas useless. Ireland’s weather changes quickly, so it might be sunny in Shannon but raining by the time you reach the cliffs. Some parts of the path have no railings, so always walk carefully. It’s also recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes.

3. Adare

Less than a 30-minute drive from Shannon is Adare, known as the most charming village in Ireland. The beautiful thatched-roof cottages preserve the 19th-century atmosphere, and the village has even won awards in "prettiest town contests."

Adare is filled with cozy restaurants, souvenir shops, cafes, and hotels—many of which are converted from old cottages. It’s a great place to stop by for tea and a relaxing stroll.

There’s a tourist office in the center of the village where you can get information about Shannon and Adare. Its proximity to Shannon makes it an easy and convenient trip.

4. The Hunt Museum

Located at the mouth of the River Shannon, The Hunt Museum is a beautiful museum showcasing precious antiques, paintings, and crafts from the Roman era and beyond. It also features Japanese pottery and offers pamphlets for Japanese tourists, making it a perfect sightseeing spot.

The museum has a restaurant and gift shop where you can relax after exploring. There’s also a café with stunning views of the River Shannon. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Shannon Airport, so it’s worth a visit if you’re flying in or out of Shannon.

5. St. Mary’s Cathedral (St. Mary's Cathedral)

Located near the mouth of Ireland’s longest river, the Shannon River, is the city of Limerick—Ireland’s third-largest city. St. Mary’s Cathedral is the oldest and most historic building in Limerick, and it’s a stunning church worth visiting. Inside, you’ll be captivated by the stained-glass windows, the pipe organ, and intricately carved choir seats. Each is breathtakingly beautiful. You’ll also notice the difference in architectural styles—the Romanesque entrance and the Gothic chapel are highlights of the visit.

If you’re visiting Limerick, be sure to stop by here. Since it’s not overly crowded, you can take your time exploring. It’s also easily accessible, just under a 30-minute drive from Shannon.

6. King John’s Castle (John King’s Castle)

Located about 20 minutes by car from Shannon, in Limerick city, stands the historical King John’s Castle. This castle was built in the early 12th century by King John to protect the Shannon region. Its solid construction is impressive. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition that explains the castle’s history. One of the best parts is being able to touch the tools and costumes used by people in the past.

After exploring the displays, you can walk through the castle and up to the rooftop. The view of Limerick from the top is spectacular and highly recommended.

7. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle, built in the medieval era, is now a popular tourist attraction. The original wooden furniture, wall hangings, bedrooms, and kitchen still remain, giving visitors a feeling of stepping back in time. The spiral staircase leads to the top of the castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Limerick.

The Folk Park is like a theme park, showcasing thatched houses and old schools reminiscent of Japan’s rural past. Since it’s close to both Shannon city and Shannon International Airport, it’s highly recommended for a visit.

◎ Summary

How was our introduction to seven recommended sightseeing spots around Shannon? The area is rich with attractions where you can experience the wonders of nature and the deep history of the community. Enjoy discovering the mysteries of the earth and the many treasures left behind by our ancestors.