Clóda Scanlon deep dives into some of her favourite hidden gems in Tipperary and beyond, namely the cross-towns of Ballina-Killaloe.
An award-winning content creator from Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipperary, Clóda reguarly promotes the wonderful places we have to discover on our doorstep here in Ireland. As a Tipp native, she knows the county like the back of her hand and shares her inside secrets with us.
What is your favourite thing about Ballina-Killaloe?
My favourite thing is how the twin-towns are perfectly situated on Lough Derg, with scenic mountains in view on both sides. It is an idyllic inland town on the water that almost gives the illusion that one is by the sea. There is so much to do as it has an amazing catchment area close to Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Galway. It’s easily accessible and very well connected, not far off the M7.
Where is the best place to feel like a local?
One of Tipperary’s best kept secrets and most incredible views is in Portroe, locally named as ‘The Lookout’. Situated just a ten-minute drive from Ballina, The Lookout is a small viewpoint car park with panoramic views across Lough Derg, and is arguably one of the best sunset spots in all of Tipperary. As Lough Derg is one of Ireland’s largest lakes, the views are so vast that it feels as though you could be on the west of Ireland, looking down at the ocean. There are a bunch of picnic tables there, so it’s a perfect spot to bring coffees, have a picnic or enjoy the views from the warmth of your car.
Is there something all tourists should do?
Something that tourists, and locals, would love is the cruise along the lake and river. Killaloe River Cruises provide great boat tours of the area, and it might just be the best way to sit back and indulge in the breathtaking scenery.
Best place for a coffee?
The Old Barracks Coffee Roasters in Birdhill is hands down the best coffee in the area. It’s so famous for its roastery and coffee bar that people exit the motorway on long journeys just to call in for a cuppa. They boast a carefully handpicked selection of high-quality coffee beans from across the world with different flavour notes and strengths. Their coffee bar is a must stop if you are in the area.
Best place for dinner?
I must give a mention to one of my childhood favourites for dinner. Many a birthday, celebration and family gathering were enjoyed at Goosers in Ballina. A quintessentially Irish dining experience in a welcoming restaurant and bar with a thatched roof, here you’ll relish in a menu of traditional Irish dishes and roast dinners. If you’re feeling more like hearty Italian pasta and cocktails, Tuscany Bistro across the road is also a fantastic option for dinner in Ballina.
Best lunch spot?
There are lots of great foodie spots in Ballina-Killaloe to rave about. If you’re looking for a girly weekend lunch, then the afternoon tea in Killaloe Hotel & Spa is fantastic. Pontevecchio is a fabulous cosy little Italian restaurant and deli, also on the Killaloe side – enjoy fresh antipasti, bruschetta, pizzas and incredible wines. Crossing the bridge back over to Ballina, The Wooden Spoon is one of my favourite spots for lunch on the go, baked goods and a great coffee.
Best pint?
One of the best places for a pint in Ballina, and easily one of the most picturesque places for a pint in Ireland is Flanagan’s on the Lake, a gastropub in Ballina. There are lots of cosy nooks to sit in inside the pub or on a summer’s day (or even a sunny crisp winter’s day), outside in their outdoor area is blissful, looking out at the lake and watching boats whizz by is a perfect experience. Pints and a pizza at Flanagan’s after a day out on the water is one of my favourite summer activities at home.
What local foods should we should try?
Tipperary and Clare are buzzing with talented food producers. We are blessed in the region with fantastic land for farming, that lends itself to high quality food production. Every Sunday from 11am-3pm, you can enjoy the artisanal foods and bakes by local producers at Killaloe Farmers Market. An amazing female founded food brand worth shouting about is Nutshed. Sisters Evie and Eliza have taken the peanut butter scene in Ireland by storm in recent years and the delicious products are made locally in Nenagh. If you get a chance to visit, their family also owns Country Choice in Nenagh, an award-winning artisanal food store with an array of high-quality foods from many local producers.
Are there any water activities nearby?
There are so many incredible water activities nearby as the twin towns are perfectly situated on Lough Derg/the River Shannon. There is a passionate swimming community around all corners of the lake, one which has grown in popularity since the pandemic. Although I recently relocated to Dublin in 2023, when I lived at home a few years ago, I organised swim meet ups at the lake for people to make new connections locally. There has been a rise in sauna culture on the lakeside, with many new sauna businesses opening up to meet the demands of the popular hot-cold therapy experience, including Ritual Sauna in Dromineer and Lakeside Sauna which pops up at different locations. There are many more activities like West Lake Aqua Park, Killaloe in summer.
What hikes or walks would you recommend?
Both sides of the lake offer great hikes and trails for locals and tourists alike, varying in difficulty. One of my personal favourite trails is Millennium Cross, a moderate 6km loop trail – very quickly one can enjoy sensational views of Lough Derg and surrounding scenery. For the more advanced hikers, Graves of the Leinstermen (also in Tipperary) is just above Millennium Cross but with more of a challenge, and across the water is Clare’s highest point, Moylussa, another must hike with views of many counties and other mountains to be enjoyed.
Are there any galleries or museums we should visit?
Nenagh Castle, Nenagh Heritage Centre, both nice ones to visit nearby. But if you’re willing to travel a bit further, Portumna Castle and Gardens, Co. Galway is absolutely stunning to wander around, with forest walks nearby.
This feature was originally published in the January|February issue of Irish Country Magazine 2025. For regular Insider’s Guides, pick up the latest edition of Irish Country Magazine. Find your nearest stockist here, or to subscribe and never miss an issue, click here.
