Terryglass is a village on the northern shores of Lough Derg, the largest lake on the River Shannon, located in County Tipperary. The lake sits at the intersection of Tipperary, Clare, and Galway, and forms part of the broader Shannon waterway system. Lough Derg is a substantial body of water with open stretches that can be exposed to wind and waves, making conditions variable depending on weather.

The harbour at Terryglass is a short walk from the village centre and serves as the primary access point for paddlers. A slipway provides direct water entry and is used by canoeists, kayakers, and boaters. The harbour is popular with cruisers during summer months, so paddlers should be aware of motorised vessel traffic during peak season. Terryglass is one of several launch points along the Tipperary shoreline of Lough Derg; others include Castlelough, Garrykennedy, Dromineer, and Kilgarvan.

Terryglass is part of the Lough Derg Blueway, a designated paddling and water trail that connects multiple towns and villages along the lakeshore. A suggested multi-day route runs from Banagher on the River Shannon south to Terryglass, continuing onward to Scarriff on the Clare shore, combining open-lake paddling with riverside sections. The surrounding landscape includes lush wetlands and diverse birdlife along the Shannon corridor.

The area carries significant historical interest. St. Columba founded a monastery at Terryglass in 549 A.D., and the site is associated with the Book of Leinster, now held at Trinity College Dublin. Holy Island on Lough Derg is another early Christian site accessible by water.

Harbour facilities at Terryglass include toilets, showers, BBQ and picnic areas, and a playground. The newer shower and toilet facilities require a Waterways Ireland card, which can be purchased at Paddy's Bar in the village. Free public toilets are also available. Rubbish and recycling disposal is provided at no charge. Accommodation in the village includes B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Summer is the busiest period on the water, with the harbour seeing the most activity from June through August.