Lough Derg, "Ireland's pleasure lake" into which the Shannon River flows, is a popular destination with both domestic and foreign holidaymakers alike and offers a wide variety of activities including fishing, boating, golfing and camping. The region has no shortage of accomodation with a multitude of hotels, B&Bs, caravan parks, marinas, holiday homes and cottages to stay in as well as great restaurants to enjoy and many great pubs and bars - many of which featuring traditional Irish music.

The region is also famous for being the birthplace of Brian Boru, the first High King of Ireland who defeated the Vikings at the Battle of Clontarf. One can also take a boat tour to the early Christian monastic sight of Inis Cealtra, or Holy Island to visit the ruins there.