The Shannon-Erne Waterway, previously known as the 19th Century Ballinamore -Ballyconnell Canal, was opened in 1994 after a three year, £30 million restoration programme. The re-opening of this magnificent waterway which links Ireland's two most significant waterways, the Shannon and the Erne, has revitalised a natural unspoilt countryside and has created 750km of cruising waterway. It traverses the counties of Leitrim , Cavan and Fermanagh, passing under 34 original stone bridges and through 16 fully automated locks.

With the restoration of the 40 mile link between the Shannon and the Erne, Ireland's two great waterways have been joined to form a magnificent chain of lakes and rivers stretching from Beleek in County Fermanagh to Killaloe in County Clare - an awesome distance of almost 300 miles! No other country in Europe can offer such a vast expanse of waterway dedicated solely to boating and fishing, and flowing always slowly through undisturbed peacefulness and quiet.

Belturbet is the present head of navigation on the Erne. The Erne rises in Lough Gowna and passes through Belturbet, Enniskillen , Belleek and enters the sea at Ballyshannon. You have plenty to enjoy in this beautifully unspoit part of Ireland many towns and villages to enjoy and beautiful houses and mansions to wonder at. Go Back to The main Shannon Page HERE to explore more towns and villages