Ireland’s Blueways are a network of stunning trails that run alongside Ireland’s most idyllic lakes, canals and rivers. Taking you off the beaten track into the heart of unspoilt landscapes – by canoe, bike or on foot.
Connecting the Erne System with the Shannon River, the Shannon-Erne was originally designed as a working waterway in the mid-19th century. Nowadays this beautiful waterway is home to the Shannon-Erne Blueway, a series of on-water and land based trails take you from Leitrim Village to Belturbet in County Cavan.
Bike hire and guided paddle adventures are available locally.
Explore the Shannon-Erne Blueway
Trails on the Shannon-Erne Blueway
Trail types: Walking/ Cycling/ Paddling
Paddle trails
Starting in Leitrim Village, paddle trails have been divided into a series of 15 sections on the Shannon-Erne Blueway, varying in distance and character.
Guided paddled experiences: There are trails suitable for everyone to enjoy and highly experienced instructors will help you to choose an experience that is most suited to your group.
Non-guided: The trails are also suited for people with more experience, please visit www.bluewaysireland.org for further safety, maps and access information.
Loop Walks and Cycle Trails
Walking and cycling trails have been established along the Shannon-Erne Blueway.
Ballyduff – Aghoo: A 12km water’s edge pathway from at Ballyduff (Section 5) to Aghoo (Section 8) is ideal for exploring the area by bike or on foot.
Killarcanm – Killcare: A lovely 5km linear walk runs from Lock 16, Killarcanm near Leitrim Village to Killcare, perfect for exploring the native flora, fauna and wildlife along the riverbank
Ballinamore Looped Trail: The gentle 4.5km looped walking trail will take you from Ballinamore Marina, along the tranquil waters of the Shannon-Erne and through the picturesque village of Ballinamore.
Leitrim Village is also the starting point of the Shannon Blueway and is the perfect location to hire a bike to explore both Blueways.
Continue the journey
For information on the next sections of the Shannon-Erne Blueway visit: www.bluewaysireland.org
Bike hire and guided paddle guides and instructors
Electric Bike Trails hire a full range of regular bicycles, electric bicycles, children’s bicycles, child carts, child seats and tandems.
Way To Go Adventures offer both guided canoe tours and bike hire. Their excellent local knowledge will help you to explore and enjoy the very best of the Shannon-Erne Blueway.
Leitrim Surf Company offer guided tours of the Shannon Blueway and tours of the Leitrim coastline.
Adventure Gently will take you on a guided trip along this enchanting waterway in Canadian Canoes.
Lough Allen Adventure is an award-winning adventure centre offering outdoor recreation in Leitrim.
