Adventure awaits you in Athlone
If you are looking for an escape for the day, then why not head to Athlone for a day filled with unique experiences and unlimited fun.
Athlone is easily accessible; you can hop on the train, it’s less than 90 minutes from Dublin and an hour from Galway. Stay within the town or bring the car and discover attractions and exciting outdoor activities nearby.
Explore the Greenways & Cycle Paths
If you are feeling full of energy bring the bikes and set out on the Old Rail Trail. This designated cycle path that starts at Garrycastle Athlone and continues for 42km to the market town of Mullingar.
If you would prefer a shorter route, travel on the greenway to Moate, about 14 km away and visit Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, a perfect spot to rest and explore. The Heritage park is now open daily from 10am – 4pm. Step back in time and rediscover Rural Ireland, there’s something for all the family to see.
There is also a Cycle Trail at Lough Key Forest Park which is also ideal for families with kids’ bikes, bikes with child seats or tag-a-longs. You can avail of the bike hire service also by booking at electricbiketrails.ie and picking up your bikes at their kiosk at Lough Key.
Adventure Awaits
If you’re an adrenalin junkie or the family are looking to try something different, Lough Key also offer a zip lining experience. This unique outdoor experience for everyone to enjoy and you can find more details here.
If it’s an adventure on the water you are after, then look no further.
Located on the shores of Lough Ree you will find Baysports, Ireland’s Largest Waterpark and home to the world’s largest inflatable waterslide. Experience hours of fun with challenging climbs and fast slides to make for a memorable day out. Their recently opened a new Junior Waterpark which is suitable for younger kids as the slides do not run into the water. Visit baysports.ie
Image – Baysports
Sit Back & Enjoy a Tour
Viking Tours Ireland is an unmissable experience for both young and old. Step back in time and take in the beautiful surroundings while listening to Viking Mike tell tales of the local history. There are a couple of options for your viking adventure, cruise the River Shannon to Lough Ree, the Lake of the Kings or down river to Clonmacnoise, Irelands famous monastic site. Viking Tours are reopening in August, visit vikingtoursireland.ie for updates.
Explore the Hidden Heartlands with Athlone as your base
If you are planning a getaway for a few days, use Athlone as your base to experience Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and all it has to offer. Derrymore Springs is situated alongside the River Deel, about an hour away from Athlone. They offer a range of activities including fishing, kayaking, peddle boating and they also cater for group sessions on the inflatable water park which is also great fun for all the family. For more information visit here.
Main Image – Derrymore Springs
Lilliput Adventure Centre is in Johnathan Swift Park on the shores of beautiful Lough Ennell in Co. Westmeath, about 45 minutes from Athlone town. The unspoilt beauty along with forests and the lake offer a picturesque location for an Adventure Centre. Activities include Kayaking, Canoeing and Archery. Visit here for more details.
Whether you want to meet up with a group of friends or take the family out for a day Athlone, at the heart of the Hidden Heartlands, has it all.
Visit Athlone.ie for more ideas.