Praying and Fasting at Lough Derg - Spiritual Travel in Ireland

Lough Derg is not a tourist attraction per se - this is a pilgrimage site strictly open to those seeking meaning and direction (or simply quiet contemplation) only. Visits of the "quick look, photo and away again" kind are definitely discouraged, though they can spot the island from the lakeshore and visit the information center.

But for any traveler wanting to experience the spirituality of Ireland, Lough Derg (also known as Saint Patrick's Purgatory) is worth serious consideration. Serious in every sense, as the full pilgrimage should not be taken lightly. It'll put you through purgatory a little bit.