A small country bursting with so many activities and so much adventure. We have detailed some of the more popular activities here, but if you have specific interests, make sure to tell us when we are working on your customised itinerary.
Cycling and Mountain Biking
Cycling is one of the most romantic ways to see the majestic Irish countryside. As you meander through small country roads you never know what amazing vista you will stumble upon or wonderful small country pub you will visit for a tea-break, the people you will meet and the conversations you will have.
Escape the bustle of urban life on the Great Western Greenway, the longest off-road cycling and walking trail in Ireland. Meandering along the old Westport / Achill railway line which closed in1937, this 42km traffic-free route is ideal for experiencing the idyllic countryside. This is a chance to drink in the view of the spectacular Nephin Mountains and across Clew Bay to Croagh Patrick.
Due to the explosion of trail building In the last few years, Ireland now has a mountain biking trail network to compete with those in Europe. The jewel in the crown is the web of trails at Ballyhoura which weaves across the borders of counties Limerick, Tipperary and Cork. In total there are 98km of tracks. There are also two world-class trails located on Dublin’s doorstep, the Ballinastoe trail system and Ticknock.
Irish Travel Plans can organise bike hire and cycling tours to meet your specific needs.
Falconry
It is thought that falconry has been enjoyed here in Ireland since the 12th century and was originally a sport for the kings and nobility. You can now watch this fascinating sport or learn how to handle and fly one of these majestic and magnificent creatures with a private tutorial arranged by Irish Travel Plans.
Ireland’s School of Falconry in Cong, Co. Mayo offers private hawk walks around the spectacular grounds of Ashford Castle. Irish Travel Plans can arrange for private walks in Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle and other centres around the country. Flying a hawk is an experience of a lifetime, make sure to include this in your itinerary.
Festivals
We love to celebrate and enjoy life, which is why you will always find some festival somewhere in the country. From walking festivals, to music, to literature, to gardens, to beer, to storytelling, to racing, to food, to surfing…and the list goes on and on. Make sure to check our homepage and our facebook page for the latest listings.
Golfing
Ireland has a long-standing reputation as one of the most rewarding destinations for golfing vacations. Ireland boasts some of the best links in Europe. Irish Travel Plans can arrange your customised golf holiday to your specific needs and group size. We cater for golf holidays throughout all areas of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our bespoke service allows you to choose the courses you wish to play, your accommodation type, transport and any extras you would like. Extras include providing motorised buggies, club hire and caddies if available. If you have any other specific needs, just ask. We will always do our best to help.
Horse Racing
Ireland has long been famed for the quality of its thoroughbreds and a day at the races is a treat for enthusiasts and novices alike. Ireland boasts over 300 race meetings a year with 27 racecourses throughout the country.
Racing festivals like the Galway Races, the Irish National Hunt Festival at Punchestown, the Curragh Derby Festival and Fairyhouse Winter Racing Festival are renowned for their carnival atmosphere. Aside from top quality racing, a day at the races is a treat for all the family with fine restaurants and quality entertainment. If you are looking for something different, try the Laytown races. Every September, thousands of racegoers flock to this tiny Meath village with its broad, sandy beach to view Europe’s only officially approved beach racing.
Spas
Ireland boasts some of the finest spas in the world and have received accolades in the World Luxury Hotel Awards and are ranked in Forbes Magazine’s Top 10 Destinations in the World. These sanctuaries of calm combine our natural resources with world-class amenities and offer choices from destination spas, hotel spas, resort spas and retreats. Irish Travel Plans can book and organise your visit to one our of heavenly spas in your customised itinerary.
Walking
Walking is a very popular pastime in Ireland and during the last number of years the quality and quantity of walking trails has greatly increased. Our national parks are a haven for walkers with dramatic variations in landscape throughout the country. Ireland’s coastal walks are breathtaking in their scenic views, from the Beara Way in Co Cork and Kerry, to the West Quarter Loop on Inishbofin. Many of our cities and towns offer historic walks and walking tours. For the enthusiasts the country offers many walking festivals, make sure to ask about the festivals running during your stay.
Water Activities
Ireland is one of the best places in Europe to go whale and dolphin watching. A total of 24 species have been sighted, including fin whales, humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. Irish Travel Plans can organise a whale or dolphin watching trip for you as part of a group or as a private charter.
If you are surf mad or just fancy taking a dip then Ireland is the place for you. Our waves are amongst the finest in Europe, blessed with a rugged coastline, we have a fantastic variety of beach, reef and break points to choose from, for novice and professional alike. Irish Travel Plans will organise a surf lesson and/or surf hire as your needs dictate in various locations throughout the country. Make sure to ask us when we are working on your customised itinerary.
This is just a taste of some of the activities you can partake in while on your visit to Ireland. Irish Travel Plans will work with you to compose a customised itinerary to include all the activities and attractions you desire. Make sure to tell us about your Irish dreams!