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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesFamilies can go horse riding, with treks for different skill levels and lessons available. There is also an arts and crafts room, an enchanted forest, a toddler playground, and garden or forest walks.
Why it matchesHire bikes in Portumna and cycle to the Forest Park, Castle, Abbey, swimming park, or the Famine Workhouse. You get a helmet, hi-viz, and a map with routes.
Why it matchesFamilies can hand-feed lambs, see various farm animals in covered barns, and learn about Irish farming. Afterwards, enjoy fresh scones and tea in the thatched cottage.
Why it matchesMeet farm animals and birds, then let the kids run wild in the outdoor playgrounds or the indoor inflatable and soft play areas. They also have special events for holidays.
Why it matchesFamilies can meet farm animals, play on indoor slides and in ball pits, or enjoy outdoor activities like go-carts and a sledge run. There is a separate area for toddlers.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the ground floor of Portumna Castle, see the formal and walled kitchen gardens, and enjoy the views of Lough Derg. There is a playground and walking trails.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy cycling, kayaking, walking, and exploring heritage sites like a 17th-century castle and abbey. There are also nature walks and mountain bike trails.
Why it matchesExplore the eastern shore of Lough Derg by road or water, visiting harbours and villages. You can tour castles, take a waterbus cruise, go for forest walks, or enjoy a floating playground.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk the 1.9km trail to Fairyland, or try the 5km heritage trail. More energetic families can tackle the 8.5km or 13km hill walks.
Why it matchesThis visitor centre has interactive displays and multi-sensory exhibits about the history of Inis Cealtra, its religious past, and the local community. You can also learn about the wildlife of Lough Derg.
Why it matchesExplore 20 acres of organic heritage seed gardens, polytunnels, and woodland trails. See the national Irish heritage apple tree collection. Bring a picnic to enjoy the views.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore a 17th-century castle and wander through formal gardens, including a willow maze and a restored kitchen garden with old-fashioned planting.
Why it matchesTake a boat trip on the River Shannon and Lough Derg. You can sit on the open deck for views of the mountains or relax inside. The owner shares local stories and folklore.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy the views of Mullaghmore Mountain and the lake, which is home to a rare water beetle. There are also ruins of a medieval tower house to see.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk, cycle, or kayak along the Lough Derg Blueway, enjoying the lake's natural beauty and wildlife. It's a place to slow down and observe nature.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a walk through Cahermurphy Forest, which has 4km of trails. There is a lakeshore picnic site and opportunities for fishing.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy walking or cycling along the lakeside paths, trying out paddleboarding on the canal, or exploring the historic towns of Killaloe and Ballina. There are local shops and cafes to visit.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk through the woods, look for birds and other wildlife, or have a picnic by Doon Lake. You can also go fishing here.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore woodlands, wetlands, and a walled garden at Coole Park. There are way-marked trails and a visitor centre with an exhibition. You can see the famous autograph tree.
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