Find a place to stay in Ireland where you can paddle your own canoe

Ireland really is the home of all things adventurous. With fun filled activities ranging from scuba diving to rock climbing, any couple or family wanting a thrill-seeking holiday need look no further.

When it comes to water sports and a glorious chance to battle the Irish and Celtic seas, a trip to County Kerry in the South West really is a must and with charming holiday cottages nearby, showcasing spectacular scenery of coastline and mountain views and welcoming all things pet-like, there’s something to do for all the family.

After the endless fun and games of rowing, kayaking or canoeing, you’ll need somewhere to relax and to rest your head. That is exactly what a holiday cottage in this part of the country can provide. Situated in a tranquil part of the gorgeous countryside and a stone’s throw away from the beach for those peaceful walks with the family and the pet pooch, how about a stay in local fishing village Portmagee? If you fancy a night in away from the plethora of restaurants and pubs in the area, then cuddle up to your loved ones under a blanket and watch your favourite programmes on the widescreen TV or if the Irish weather surprises you, why not enjoy a BBQ under the stars from the family picnic bench in your private garden? Now that’s what we call a heavenly holiday!

Derrynane Sea Sports on the Ring Of Kerry takes advantage of arguably the most incredible and picturesque locations in the country to offer a variety of amazing aquatic activities to all ages. Ranging from water-skiing to paddleboards, it is the oldest water sports centre in the area and offers professional instruction to experts as well as to beginners.

derrynane beach

If a trip to Kerry doesn’t steer your canoe, then take your paddle and row to County Cork, the largest and southernmost county of Ireland. With exceptional holiday cottages dotted around the area; from the beautiful Bantry Bay in the West to Blackwater Valley in the North and with the rapid waters of the Atlantic Ocean creating the best surfing waves in Ireland, a trip to Cork really can be that something special.

Looking for the perfect area to stay? Then you’ll have to stop and think about the gorgeous yachting harbour of Kinsale. With high quality bars and restaurants, most of which are situated on the never-ending coastline, you’ll always be treated to a proper Irish night out! Think about the following morning. You wake up, a little lightheaded but very well rested in your spacious and bright King sized bedroom. You smell the scrumptious Donnelly imported rashers of bacon coming from your fully furnished kitchen and then sip a freshly made coffee (Jamesons optional) on your terrace overlooking unrivalled panoramic views of local wonders Garrettstown Beach and Old Head. Can you imagine anything better?

Fountainstown, a seaside town in County Cork is home to the immensely popular Funky Town Adventure Centre. Walk the plank on the water trampoline as you gawp over the secluded beaches of Ringabella Bay or kayak down the river and wade into the open waters of the North Atlantic. In search of a group water sports activity? Funky Town can offer special family trips like the Grand Harbour Adventure or the Dolphin Discovery, where common and bottle nosed dolphins are frequently seen. Bring your cameras tourists and snap away!

Be prepared to curtsey or bow down to County Meath, in the Mid-East of Ireland and known affectionally nationwide as the Royal County, due to its age-old territory for the High Kings. Live like a Prince or Princess in one of the modern, recently renovated holiday cottages in the area, consisting of a wood burner stove, patio area and quirky interior and exterior designs. With coastal paths and sandy beaches nearby for excitable pets and keen walkers, this is a great option for tourists wanting to relax and appreciate the real Ireland. 

View coastal holiday lets in County Meath

In the inland County Meath village of Arodstown, The Wake Zone is a 10-year-old family friendly and family run wakeboard and water ski club, that is starting to become known throughout the local area. Although based on a man-made lake, the club is consistently swarming with water sports enthusiasts every day. Some of which come back time after time to appreciate the quality of facilities available as well as the spectacular scenery that surround it. View more holiday homes in County Meath

If it’s more river activities you want, then Trim a town in County Meath situated on the River Boyne can satisfy your white-water rafting urges. Perfect for large families and ideal for adrenaline junkies, you will never have as much fun as you do with Boyne Valley Activities. As all your equipment is supplied, all you need to do is to bring your own courage (and you’ll need it to handle the mighty weirs of the rough and ready Irish river). Want a calmer ride and to appreciate the more historical side of the town? Boyne Valley Activities offers you the chance to “float through time” for 90 minutes and scour the array of magnificent abbeys and castles on their Medieval River Raft Tour.  See, history can be fun!

As you can see, Ireland is the place to be for all things watersportsy.  It’s not just a country that is all about golf, leprechauns and Guinness when you have a thrilling variety of river and sea sports available. The coasts of Ireland are spectacularly scenic; perfect for tourist-enticing activities like canoeing and rafting.

Appreciate the splendour as you sail. Appreciate Ireland.