Clonlara lies on the west bank of the River Shannon between Killaloe and Limerick, close to the Slieve Bernagh Mountains. A circular trail to historic sites, riding lessons for recreational riders and the National Kart Centre give a stay a variety of themes.

Local History and Trails

The Clonlara Heritage Trail is a circular route that takes in sixteen historic sites. It starts in the village, where parking is available at the Community Centre. This makes it possible to explore local history on a route that begins in the village. Another trail option is the Lough Derg Way: Clonlara is one of its five starting points. The trail follows the River Shannon and its canals northwest to the harbour at Dromineer on Lough Derg. The two routes have different focuses: the Heritage Trail centres on historic sites along a circular route, while the Lough Derg Way follows the river and canals to the harbour.

Horse Riding in Clonlara

The Clonlara Equestrian Centre offers recreational riders lessons in show jumping, dressage, eventing and trekking. The facilities include an international indoor arena, two outdoor arenas and a cross-country course. The offering is specifically aimed at recreational riders. If you plan to take riding lessons, check availability for your preferred date in advance.

Karting and Water Activities

The National Kart Centre is located in Clonlara and is considered Ireland’s largest indoor karting and drift-kart facility. Nearby, guided kayak and canoe tours are offered on the canal and on the River Shannon towards Limerick City. The feeder canal, which carries water to Ardnacrusha Hydroelectric Power Station, also runs near Clonlara. The power station is considered a significant engineering structure of the 20th century and a popular tourist attraction. Indoor karting, guided water tours and the history of the power station offer different experiences. Check the current booking arrangements for the Kart Centre and guided tours in advance.

If you are considering Clonlara as a place to stay, it helps to distinguish between offerings in the village and activities in the surrounding area: the Heritage Trail, the Equestrian Centre and the National Kart Centre are located in Clonlara; kayak and canoe tours are offered on waterways in the surrounding area.

More Destinations in County Clare

County Clare, the wider destination, is home to other distinct destinations. At O’Brien’s Tower, the Cliffs of Moher rise to over 700 feet and stretch for almost 14 kilometres along the Clare coastline. The visitor site includes 800 metres of paved paths and viewpoints, including access to O’Brien’s Tower. The Cliffs of Moher Experience also includes a fully accessible visitor centre, a self-guided exhibition and a virtual reality experience on a cliff face. In Burren National Park, you can explore walking trails. County Clare is served by a road network as well as bus and rail connections; Ennis is connected to the national rail network. Before your visit, check the latest information on visitor facilities and trail conditions, as well as the specific connections for your journey.

Discover more destinations: Killimer, Corofin, Fanore, Whitegate, Killaloe, Coillte, Miltown Malbay, Bunratty

Back to the wider travel guide: County Clare.