If you plan on heading out for a swim, always stay safe. Explore guest reviews and book the perfect hotel with pools for your trip. Are you up for the challenge? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you. We've got you covered. Mountshannon Beach is located at Lough Derg, which is one of the major freshwater lakes of Ireland. Swimmers should head to the elegant 18th century village of Mountshannon, County Clare with its picturesque marina and Blue Flag beach. Canal entrance from Ballycuirke Lough [ (c) Declan Maher 2012] 13 years old on the day of the event. It offers some peace and quiet as you view Lough Erne from a completely new angle. Once you've cleared the cobwebs with a swim, walk up to local favourite The Snug and warm yourself up with pizza and tapas. There is a hour between the two swims so plenty of time to recover for the second race. Swimming. Warm up afterwards with a bowl of Strangford mussels at The Fullerton Arms on Ballintoy's Main Street. Among certain rare or protected species are the Narrow-leaved Helleborine and Betony, both found on Hare Island. Follow the flat towpath trail from the lovely village of Graignamanagh and you're into a stunning natural wonderland of glassy reflections, forests and picturesque lock houses. The River Shannon flows through town and into a nearby lake, Lough Ree. It's got to be Keem Bay. Michael Alexander from the Wild Swim community describes the waters here as having “that rich Atlantic hue of green and blue,” and a temperature that is “reassuringly cold”. The Hodson Bay open water swim is proudly hosted by the "Hodson Bay Hotel", you can visit them at www.hodsonbayhotel.com for more information, and remember to quote us for your discounted rate! LAKEBOATS . Devenish Island, Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh: Only accessible by water, Devenish Island, has roots that date all the way back to the 6th century. Travel options and businesses may be affected by local restrictions. Great atmosphere in hotel and staff very friendly and helpful. The lake is just outside of the city and is an ideal place to take the family. Peppered with no less than 154 islands, there is plenty of gentle shoreline here where you can take steps into the water. Feel like a bit of a challenge? Very enjoyable family stay and best swimming pool we have been to. Planning a trip? An open water swimmerhas hailed her crossing of Lough Neaghas a triumph — despite being whisked to hospital after breathing water into her lungs. The station has recently launched a major fund raising drive to raise €100,000 as a local contribution to the new boathouse which will greatly enhance the services to the community. Hotels, self-catering, campsites… Ireland has accommodation to suit every taste! The Connacht, Galway. Where to enjoy traditional Irish food in Dublin and Belfast, with a contemporary edge. From wild bays on the edge of Europe to crystal clear lakes once home to monks and mystics, the island of Ireland's wild swimming spots are nothing short of spectacular. During your stay you can book a range of activities including row boats, kayaks, fishing, swimming and boat tours. Incredible to be part of, and to watch. Having the Lough Ree RNLI at Coosan Point is a privilege. Strolling through vibrant city streets? The lough's largest town Enniskillen also hosts the annual Lough Erne Swim, with swims from 1.5km up to 25km long, as part of The Global Swim Series, the world’s largest collection of open-water races. O'Connor completed this swim to raise funds for South Westmeath Hospice. Through the use of underwater cameras and an in-depth understanding of the mechanics of Front Crawl they have empowered athletes to complete their first 200m open water swim, to become an Ironman, to become the first person in history to swim all 32km of Lough Ree and to become members of a select group that have swam the English channel. The Irish Water Safety provides information on what to look out for when swimming in the sea or open water in Ireland. Coming Soon! Will be back again soon. And remember, if you are felling extra fit you can swim both distances for the one entry. It's about a 7km walk or cycle to the village of St Mullins  — your swimming spot. Lough Ree A short historical tour Part one. This glacial fjord in County Louth is no stranger to beauty — after all, it boasts views of the breathtaking Mourne Mountains — the peaks that inspired CS Lewis's Narnia. Swim Briefing, Tips and FAQs in preparation for the race! There’s a whole other world to explore with our myths and legends of Ireland quiz! Get your feet wet or hit the tarmac: some great ways to explore of the Wild Atlantic Way. Sea and land combine to create a vista of pure poetry on the Wild Atlantic Way. Can you swim a mile in the very center of Ireland? "Cool, dark and refreshing," is how Outdoorswimming.ie describes the waters here, but they do also caution that the Barrow is a big river so it's vital to be careful of any flow. The lake is of significant ecological interest, with five habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. Walks The 46-year-old was close to the close to … One of the top attractions at this family-friendly hotel is without a doubt their … With so many air and ferry routes to choose from, Ireland is accessible no matter where you are in the world. Can you swim a mile in the very center of Ireland? Dublin’s prettiest villages with quaint shops, beautiful scenery and more. In all BUT Glendalough you can swim both the 750m and 1.5km for the one entry. Lough Ree means " The Lake of Kings". Standing proud on a tiny Island off shore and within view of every swimmer as you complete your mile challenge is the 'Hodson Pillar' the legendary centre of Ireland. At the moment restrictions have the group swims on pause and they are looking forward to the day they can swim together again. Get yourself to Armagh for the celebrations at the Home of St Patrick Festival! Join the locals, don a wetsuit or swimming costume, and experience the invigorating, refreshing and liberating experience of plunging into our waters! But it also has some swimming options, too. You'll be buzzed up on endorphins afterwards, so head into the medieval town of Carlingford where lots of cosy pubs, cafés and restaurants await. The beach is lifeguard patrolled during the bathing season and more information can be found on the noticeboard located at the beach. Please review our Swim Briefing, Tips and FAQs in preparation for the race! Why not try the annual Great Fjord Swim? Be warned, it's cold — so a wetsuit, or at the very least a wetsuit-top is a good idea if you're taking the plunge. Lanesborough is located on the banks of the River Shannon at the northern end of Lough Ree. The 46-year-old woman had been swimming in the popular lough in Athlone when she started got into trouble. Five unique regions. Peppered with no less than 154 islands, there is plenty of gentle shoreline here where you can take steps into the water. Your kindness today can give people the best chance of survival by helping to fund a new, purpose-built lifeboat station that will enhance lifesaving here for generations to come. Visit blueflagireland.org for Loughrea Lake Lifeguard times and beach informtion. One amazing island. https://www.eurocampings.co.uk/.../campsite-lough-ree-east-csc-103090 That depends on which event you are coming to. Bear in mind that it does get deep fairly quickly, so stay close to the shore. Fans of HBO's Game of Thrones® may recognise Ballintoy Harbour as the Iron Islands, but this quiet spot off the Causeway Coastal Route is also known for what Chris Popham from the Wild Swimming community describes as "astonishingly clear" waters. The 33.91 km (21.07 mi) swim lasted 13 hours and 34 minutes, a mean speed of 2.5 kilometres per hour (1.6 mph; 0.69 m/s). Achill Island is far more than just picture-postcard perfection. Our Hodson Mile and half mile swim will be run from the spectacular grounds of the Hodson Bay Hotel on the tranquil shore of lough Ree on the mighty Shannon. Afterwards, warm the cockles with tea and scones at the brilliant Mullichain Café, right on the doorstep. The majestic lake is at the heart of our town and offers wonderful walks, swimming and fishing. Find out more. Neither county is renowned for swimming spots so we were glad to add this as a Longford location.We found a nice place to get in on the east side of the town's bridge, just before you cross the county boundary. Lough Ree, LanesboroughMay 2013Lanesborough is on the border between Longford and Roscommon and we think we swam on the Longford side. One of the island's biggest freshwater lakes, Lough Derg is one of the island's Blueways and is awash in natural beauty from its sparkling waters to the sandstone hills and mountains that cradle it. And Queen Maeve was killed by the son of the King of Ulster as she bathed on the shores of Inchcleraun, an island on Lough Ree. This mystical lake studded with islands is a place of great myth and legend. Meaning you can now see where you position against swimmers and events from all across the world!! But they operate from temporary facilities and urgently need a permanent, new base to continue their lifesaving mission. Accessibility Help. Swim Cap, race numbers and goodie bags can be collected at this time. Show more Show less. Explore the breathtaking surroundings of Glasson Lakehouse in one of our authentic rowboats or motorboats. Explore the surrounds of Glasson Lakehouse with a number of lake activities in Lough Ree. Or just want to scroll yourself happy? The swim group is a diverse group of people who came together to swim or dip! Find and book deals on the best hotels with pools in Lough Ree, Ireland! A SWIMMER WHO got into difficulty while swimming in Lough Ree has died. Right this way…. Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? From its base near Athlone, Lough Ree RNLI’s volunteer crew responded to more than 40 call outs last year helping people who got into difficulty on the lake. How much do you know about Ireland’s historic houses? Park at the harbour, walk back up the road and keep your eye out for a small entrance that leads down a track to a fine stretch of golden sand. Fancy something more adventurous? Lough Rea is a Blue Flag beach and safe for swimming. The location was just brilliant, our dog got to swim in Lough Ree and the views from the hotel were amazing. Patrick McDonnell is aiming to swim from Lanesborough bridge to the bridge at Athlone castle, completing a distance of 33km, while his brother Michael plans to run around the lake, amounting to a distance of 90km. As you can see, a cruise around Lough Ree takes you through a lot of Irish history as well as some stunning scenery. Wildlife at Lough Ree Flora and Habitats The flora of Lough Ree is as diverse as its fauna due in part to the variety of habitats that it supports. The general manager was so friendly and accommodating. 3 were here. The rush of adrenaline, the shock of the cold, the natural high... Wild swimming is something special and on the island of Ireland, the dazzling beauty of the surroundings elevates the experience to epic levels. Now proudly part of the Global Swim Series. ... Temp of Lough Ree has jumped ack up to 20 degrees, its time for a dip. Like several other Irish loughs including some of our other venues which are steeped in folklore , Lough Ree has been the scene of many sightings of lake monsters so be warned. Meaning you can now see where you position against swimmers and events from all across the world! Here are five ways to spend the festive season in Ireland. But it's the glistening, crystal-clear water here that will really make your heart sing. During your stay you can book a range of activities including fishing, swimming, boat tours and coming soon we’ve got row boats and kayaks for you to enjoy. In the summer months, you can swim… It's a truly unforgettable location, thanks to a combination of sky-high sea cliffs, startlingly beautiful beaches, rugged mountains and dramatic peat bogs. The pristine River Barrow in Carlow is something of a hidden gem that's a favourite of local walkers and cyclists, as well as kayakers and boaters. JUMP IN. A very sharp right to SW and the passage leads directly into the canal. Another exciting event for the team that brought you the flatline Athlone Half... Jump to. Or you can pop into the Lough Ree Inn which hosts a bar, restaurant and café! Looking for inspiration? In ancient Irish myth, after the Tain wars and the death of Cuchulainn, Queen Maeve returned to an … ! The Causeway Coastal Route is one of Northern Ireland's greatest adventures. A paramedic on the RIB accompanying O’Hagan throughout her … Enjoy sweet treats, local craft beers and some of the world's best seafood. 8-10.30 am for 1/2 Mile  8-10.30 am for 1 Mile. Wondering about weather? Incredible to be part of, and to watch. At Ireland's oldest working lighthouse, you'll find a large natural rock pool filled at mid to high tide. Head out with Coasteering NI for a "swim, scramble and splash around the coves of Ballintoy". We have very strict maximum numbers in Where better to celebrate the life of St Patrick, than where his legacy runs deep? Now proudly part of the Global Swim Series. As BelfastLive reports, Lurgan woman Alison O’Haganwas 13km into her 14km endurance swim on Saturday morning (11 July) when she inadvertently took a lungful of water in a sudden swell. Take your pick of the half mile or 1 mile courses. The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled. Please check before visiting. A WOMAN is fighting for her life after getting into difficulty while swimming in Lough Ree yesterday evening. Sections of this page. Our Hodson Mile and half mile swim will be run from the spectacular grounds of the Hodson Bay Hotel on the tranquil shore of lough Ree on the mighty Shannon. In fact we encourage it and most swimmers will do both. Questions on visas? Whether you choose our half mile course or the Hodson Mile challenge this is an event which will live on in your own story telling,  with either a possible sighting of a winged lake serpent or the unique opportunity to have swam in the centre of Ireland or more importantly having completed your swim goal for 2020. And why not in Glendalough? There is a variety of abilities from all walks of life. HOWEVER we would ask anyone between 13 and 17 to contact us as we may require you to bring your own COMPETENT kayaker that will accompany them for the swim. Lough Ree is home to one of Ireland’s busiest lifeboat crews. And the best spot for swimming? Bracing swims, city kayaking and cycling trails: explore Dublin's adventurous side! The lough's largest town Enniskillen also hosts the annual Lough Erne Swim, with swims from 1.5km up to 25km long, as part of The Global Swim Series, the world’s largest collection of open-water races. There is really nothing as glorious as topping off a visit to this slice of Connemara heaven with a dip in the beautiful Killary Fjord. Spirits of Irish High Kings ,ghosts of fallen warriors and the guiding eyes of ancient monks peer through the evening mist and linger in the air. Fiona Ireland Gleeson's Restaurant & Rooms From $92 per night 9.2 Awesome 348 reviews No list of wild swimming spots would be complete without Lough Erne, set in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands. Various birds swimming on Lough Ree in Ireland, along with some other scenery. From action-packed adventures to rejuvenating retreats, Ireland's got something for everyone. Buckthorn, an uncommon native tree, can be seen along the lake shore. Explore the surrounds of Glasson Lakehouse with a number of lake activities in Lough Ree. Registration is now open so take advantage of our early bird deals. 5. Who would you like to be “just in time” if you suddenly realised your son was in difficulty swimming in Lough Ree? Exploring ancient ruins? South of Lough Ree is Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement, which was Europe’s first university. Take the challenge to swim a mile (or a shorter half mile course) at the reputed geographical centre of Ireland. Jim O'Connor was the first person to solo swim the length of Lough Ree in 2012. Either way, once you're done, tuck into a toasted sandwich in Gaynor’s pub, where much of the action in John B Keane’s film adaptation of The Field took place. Entering the passage heading SW and following as it swings left until you are heading SE, you arrive in a small clear pool. Approximately 10 miles southwest of Longford town, Lanesborough is divided in two by the River Shannon and marks the northern entrance to Lough Ree. Access to the water was from a … Get insider tips, travel ideas and offers that bring you one step closer to Ireland. Base yourself in the village of Leenane, and, well, just go for it – dolphins, seals and sublime views will keep you company. Featuring Lough Ree Yacht Club, Carberry Island and Ballyglass Cross. During summer months a lifeguard is on duty and there are changing rooms, showers, picnic area and parking. Mix and match for your perfect holiday. Two brothers from Coosan are set to test their endurance this coming May, with one swimming the length of Lough Ree while the other runs around it. Athlone - Departing Athlone we head up river, towards Lough Ree.