Holy Island

This summer, we are offering a new Guided Tour, to Inis Cealtra (Holy Island). This was a monastic settlement, founded in the 6th Century, and while it is a fairly remote site in the modern world, in those times it was at the very heart of everything. Travel by land was extremely difficult because there were very few roads and most of the country, including both sides of Lough Derg, was heavily forested. By far the easiest way to get around was by water, so Inis Cealtra, along with Clonmacnoise further up the Shannon, were important centres for religion, learning and trade. In the 9th and 10th Century, their central location made them easy targets for Viking Raiders, and the island was badly hit, with most of the buildings being burnt down. However, Brian Boru, who later became High King of Ireland, stemmed the tide of Viking expansion and rebuilt the monasteries on Inis Cealtra. The monastery eventually fell out of use (except as a burial site), but today you can wander among the ancient buildings and get a real sense of peace and tranquility.

Travelling to Inis Cealtra by eBike.

Lough Derg eBike Tours are offering 3 options of guided tours to Inis Cealtra.

The easy route starts at Tuamgraney and takes you along quiet back roads to Mountshannon, where you will board a boat to the island. The cycle is relatively short, and this route is suitable to all levels of ability.

The moderate route is a longer cycle, starting from Killaloe. However, it is fairly easy cycling, and long stretches of the route are on the dedicated cycle path which stretches along the Lough shore from Killaloe to Tuamgraney. After Tuamgraney you will follow the same route as the easy route to Mountshannon.

The hard route starts from Tuamgraney and follows the East Clare Way to Mountshannon. This takes you up in the hills, and there is a 5km stretch which is on a gravel 'borreen' (literally 'small road' in Irish). If you are accustomed to cycling, particularly off road cycling, it will not be too taxing, but it is not recommended for beginners or for people who are not used to cycling off road.

Highlights of the Tour

If you opt for the moderate version of the tour, starting at Killaloe, then you will first travel along the western shore of Lough Derg, enjoying fantastic views across the lake into County Tipperary and the Arra range. On the way to Mountshannon, you will enjoy a brief climb in the Sleibh Bearnagh range and enjoy a long downhill stretch into Tuamgraney. You will also get further lake views on the way back, seeing Inis Cealtra once more, from a different angle across the water.

On all versions of the tour, you will visit Tuamgraney and Scariff, both of which are picturesque market towns with a lot of history behind them. Tuamgraney includes St Cronin's church, which is the oldest church still in regular use, and which was rebuilt by Brian Boru in the 11th Century after being destroyed in a Viking raid. Scariff was once an important trading port and a centre for milling and iron production, but is now a market town.

You will sail to Inis Cealtra from Mountshannon, on a boat operated by Gerard Madden of Holy Island Tours. Please note that the cost of the boat is included in the price you pay to Lough Derg eBike Tours. Also please note that the boat operates seasonally, from March to October. Before departing from Mountshannnon you will have the option of a coffee from That's My Brew.

On arrival at Inis Cealtra, you will have an hour to explore the island on foot. The island is around 2 acres in area, so you will have plenty of time to immerse yourself among the historic buildings, and admire the views from the shores.

If you opt for the 'Hard' version of the tour, you will experience a section of the East Clare Way. This is a 172km circular route which takes in many of the highlights of the eastern half of County Clare. The route is mostly designed for walkers rather than cyclists, but many sections can be cycled. If you wish to know more about the East Clare Way, visit Clare Walks. Even if you don't want to do the hard cycle, you can always come back another day and experience the trail on foot.

I am delighted to be able to offer this tour for the summer of 2025, and hope to see you there!