Shannon, Ireland


On the banks of the Shannon River, Shannon is an ideal gateway to the medieval castles, verdant landscapes and cities of western Ireland. Nearby, the cultural heritage and history of Limerick beckon. The 13th-century King John’s Castle; the iconic Milk Market, one of the oldest markets in Ireland; the 12th-century St. Mary’s Cathedral; and the picture-perfect village of Adare with its thatched cottages are all top choices. Walk the coastal pathways of the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO Global Geopark that also includes the fossil-rich limestone landscape of the Burren. The 15th-century Bunratty Castle, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, provides a fascinating look at how the lords and ladies of the era lived.