Shannon is in one of Ireland's most beautiful regions, famous for dramatic landscapes, ancient castles and a relaxed pace of life. Ireland is often called a rich and varied land, and Shannon, in its mid-west region, typifies this description. The area has something to offer everyone. There is traditional music and literature mixed with theatre and nightlife in nearby Limerick and Ennis. Those with a love of the outdoors will enjoy fishing, water sports and golfing. Shannon is a busy economic center with easy access to the European market, and is home to the Shannon River, the longest river in the British Isles and gateway to the longest navigable inland waterway in Europe.