Lough Ree

After passing Lanesborough, the Shannon river opens out into the great expanse of Lough Ree (the "Lake of Kings"). On several islands in the lough, including Inchbofin (National Monument), Inishturk and Inchmore, are remains of early monastic settlements. On Inchclearaun (also known as Quaker Island after a 19th century inhabitant) Clothra, sister of Queen Maeve, is said to have been killed by a slingstone hurled from the shores of the lough.

South of Athlone and its lock the river pursues a quiet winding course through flat country until the towers of Clonmacnoise appear on the horizon. This is surely the finest way of approaching the ruins of the old monastic city (landing stage).