5 family things to do over Bank Holiday
With the May Bank Holiday kickstarting the summer season, it can be a time for parents to look for ways to keep the little ones entertained while the adults get a chance to unwind too.
A weekend away along Ireland’s Waterways is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure with lots for the entire family to enjoy. Here’s a top five of the activities to enjoy along the River Shannon. Have fun!
Eagle Spotting in Mountshannon
Co Clare - Free
The Mountshannon Bird Hide in Lough Derg is one of the best places to view the White-Tailed Eagles without disturbing them. The bird hide features telescopes and information displays about Ireland’s largest and most spectacular breeding birds, including the first of the species to be born in the country in 110 years. Being able to view a breeding pair of White-Tailed Sea Eagles in their natural habitat is a unique experience for visitors. It’s open until September each year. Enjoy a spot of lunch in Nuala’s Bar in Tuamgraney.
Portumna Forest Park
Co Galway
Average cost of bike hire with Dick’s Bike Hire: €10-35 ( child/mountain/e-bike)
https://dicksbikehire.ie/bike-hire/family-bike-hire-irelands-hidden-heartlands/
Along the shores of Lough Derg and the Shannon, covering almost 450 hectares, Portumna Forest Park is perfect for a short leisure walk or cycle. The forest’s looped walking trail is only 1.4km and is wheelchair and buggy friendly with a wide smooth forest road. Pack a picnic and cycle or walk to the viewing platform and visit the Irish Workhouse Centre or Portumna Castle. Treat yourself to afternoon tea in Café Rose.
Paddling the Waterways
Co Clare
Instructed water sports session: €36/pp
Check out the Lough Derg Blueway paddling routes and hire your canoe from Lough Derg Adventure Centre to explore the eastern shoreline and astounding vistas. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Shannon https://ulsport.ie/ulac/kayaking/
Make a Splash - a two-hour instructor-guided water sports session. Choose a combination of two water sports from stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, canoeing.
Horse riding – Lough Derg Equestrian Centre
Ballina - €30-45
https://itsplainsailing.com/org/ldec
Giddy up at Lough Derg Equestrian Centre in Ballina and take the family horse riding or for pony camp through the countryside. Work up an appetite and take a short drive for lunch in the Lake Café, Dromineer and soak in spectacular lakeside views.
Soak up some history
Nenagh Castle
Free guided tours available but pre-booking is required
https://www.discoverireland.ie/tipperary/nenagh-castle
Count 101 steps to the top of Nenagh’s oldest building. As Nenagh’s premier tourist attraction, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history. Built in the 13th century, Nenagh Castle laid the foundation for the development of the whole town.
History buffs can delve into the past further afield at Killaloe Ballina and orientate yourself in the twin towns, by walking through the villages. Check out the old cathedral and climb the tower to get a view over the river and old bridge.