river shannon

The Shannon is the longest river in Ireland, rising in County Cavan and meandering down to the Atlantic. Flowing through the heart of the island, it has traditionally marked the border between the provinces of Leinster and Connaught.
In medieval times, castles guarded the major fords from Limerick to Portumna, and numerous monasteries were built along the riverbanks, including the celebrated Clonmacnoise.
Work began on the Shannon navigation system in the 1750's but it fell into disuse with the advent of the railways. It has since been revived, with and additional boost given by the recent restoration of the Shannon -Erne Waterway.
There are subtle changes of landscape along the length of the river. South of Lough Allen, the countryside is covered with the drumlins or low hills typical of the northern Midlands.
Towards Lough Ree, islands stud the river in an area of ecological importance which is home to otters, geese, grey herons and whooper swans. Continuing south beyond Athlone, the river flows through flood plains and bog before reaching Lough Derg, the biggest of the lakes on the Shannon.
The scenery is more dramatic here, with the lough' s southern end edged by wooded mountains.