5 Active Holiday Getaways in Ireland

We may not often get the opportunity to lie on the beach in Ireland, but if you’re looking for an adventure holiday this beautiful country has plenty to offer. Read on for our top recommendations for active holiday getaways across the country - because lying around is overrated anyway.

Get Active in Carlingford

If you’d like to try out a range of outdoor activities, Carlingford Adventure Centre should be at the top of your list. Located in a beautiful coastal town in Louth, you can choose to conquer a zip line adventure park in the sky or plummet downhill at exhilarating speeds in a giant inflatable zorb. Enjoyable for children and adults alike, the centre also offers rock climbing, archery and a water trampoline. When you have time to stop and take a breath, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains.

Scuba Diving in Cork

Dive into an adventure that you’ll never forget in Kinsale, where you’ll find some of the best scuba diving spots in the world. Although there is an abundance of marine life to marvel at in Irish waters, wreck diving is where the southern coastline really comes into its own.

There are thousands of sunken vessels to explore in this part of the country, including the Libau, a ship that attempted to impersonate the famous Aud in order to carry weapons to Ireland during the 1916 Easter Rising. A history lesson under the sea is bound to be a memorable one, and Ocean Addicts offer a three-day Kinsale-based dive experience that explores many of these fascinating wrecks.

Rock Climbing in Donegal

If you’d prefer to ascend a cliff rather than making your descent into the ocean, make your way to Donegal. This county is home to some of the best climbable rock that the country has to offer, including Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin head. Rock climbing is an exhilarating way to explore nature and release stress, making it an ideal active getaway.

Anyone can get involved regardless of age and experience, and Unique Ascent provides taster sessions and introduction classes if you’re looking to try it out.

Cycling in Mayo

If you’re searching for a landscape of exceptional beauty as a backdrop to your cycling holiday, look no further than the Great Western Greenway in Mayo. Locals and tourists alike flock to this derelict railway turned cycling and walking trail, which stretches for over 43km. You begin your journey in the picturesque seaside town of Westport and set off on an adventure through woodlands, grass pastures, bogs and quaint villages.

You’ll also have the opportunity to tick a few famous sights off your bucket list along the way including Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick. Better yet, when you need a break from the road, there are plenty of cosy spots that will welcome you in to sample some delicious local pub grub.

Rafting in the Boyne Valley

If you’re looking for something more fast-paced than cycling, white water rafting is guaranteed to deliver that adrenaline rush. Enjoy the beautiful River Boyne with the added fear factor of rafting down the tumbling white water at jaw-dropping speeds. This is not an activity for the faint-hearted but one that delivers a great team building experience - and rapids that will certainly wake you up. Boyne Valley Activities offer a two-hour guided trip with all equipment included.

Get Covered With AIB Travel Insurance

There’s no need to leave Ireland to find adventure, and if you’re looking for Travel Insurance for your trip, we’ve got you covered. With tailored policies to suit whatever activity you choose, you can enjoy peace of mind as well as an amazing active getaway.

Take a look at our travel insurance cover options and get a quote today!

Get 30% off all new single and annual multi-trip polices when you buy online. The discount is based on the price you would have got over the phone. Offer ends 30 June 2017.Get a quote online todayor call us at 1800 242 467.’

And if you have any further questions, why not ask us on Facebook or Twitter @AIBIreland?

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is an agent of AIB Insurance Services Limited in relation to provision of general insurance products. AIB Travel Insurance is exclusively underwritten by ACE European Group Limited. AIB Insurance Services Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Copyright Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. 1995.