Shannon's central location on Ireland's west coast makes it a handy place to stay. You'll be within easy reach of the region's beauty spots and close to one of the country's main airports. Arm yourself with a camera and walking boots because the region's sandy beaches, rocky cliffs and limestone pavements are renowned all over the world and well worth exploring. You'll also find live music galore, cultural festivals and cool bars in nearby Limerick, alongside artisan crafts and traditional pubs in the small towns surrounding Shannon.
You can expect a Shannon hostel to be homely, giving you a warm welcome to the town. Options include an 18th-century stone building with crackling open fireplaces, and cosy stays just 5 minutes from the airport. Some hostels in Shannon have snug common areas for getting to know fellow travellers over an Irish coffee, and kitchen areas and a barbecue for whipping up a shared dinner. You'll find options with comfortable private rooms and in-room televisions.
The Shannon region covers the counties of Clare and Limerick, so there are plenty of places to visit. You can spend time in the live music-filled bars of Limerick City or the windswept wilds of the Burren National Park. Ennis is a nearby town with winding streets and Irish pubs, plus historic remains of medieval abbeys and castles. There are plenty of small towns in the region, worth a visit for their thatched cottages and traditional crafts.
The craggy landscapes of the Shannon region are its star attractions. You can take a trek up the Cliffs of Moher (there are steps to help you!) for an incredible view of the Atlantic, or wander the limestone slabs of the Burren and discover ruins from the Stone and Iron Ages. Head to Limerick for year-round festivals and nightlife – look out for whiskey and craft beer joints. You'll find glorious golden beaches and a sheltered ocean pool along the coastline of Clare.
Shannon airport is one of Ireland's main international airports. The two closest cities are Ennis (24km north) and lively Limerick (24km south). There are plenty of car rental options or you can reach the bright lights of Limerick by bus from the airport in around half an hour. Ennis is 30 to 40 minutes by bus. You can travel around the region from Shannon town centre by bus.
