Cruising on the River Shannon - Cruising VacationShannon Princess | Luxury Boutique Hotel Barge

The Shannon Princess cruises through a countryside little changed through the centuries. Come aboard and join the Shannon Princess cruising on the River Shannon – an incredible journey through the heart of hidden Ireland. The River Shannon (named after the Celtic goddess ‘Sionna’) is a series of lakes, rivers and tiny canals, which at almost 200 miles in length, is Ireland’s longest river. For over ten thousand years, the river was vital to the survival of the prehistoric people living along its banks. After Christianity, it became the refuge of saints & scholars.Today the river Shannon remains unspoiled and has retained its great natural beauty and enjoys a richness in wild flowers, bird and animal life.

Cruising on the River Shannon – Unspoiled River Scenery

As barge guests cruising on the river shannon, on the Shannon Princess, you are “up close and personal” with the sights. Each day we pass crumbling ivy-covered ruins, medieval garrisons and shoreline villages. We moor right at Clonmacnoise, a monastery established in the 6th century which survived for 1000 years. Our route takes us through dappled woodlands and floodplain meadows. The barge also call at historic towns such as Athlone and Killaloe – today a pretty riverside village, but once home to the court of the last High Kings of Ireland. Observe wildlife – rare white tailed eagles nesting in waterside trees, go fishing, or even swim from the barge.There is always time for early morning strolls through twisting country lanes – or to explore the villages and roads by bicycles. Be as active as you wish! Everywhere, the friendly Irish people will welcome you as honoured guests.