Boating holidays in Ireland: an angler's paradise

Wednesday, 7 September 2011 10:17 PM

If you're looking for an active break with a difference, turn your attention to boating holidays in Ireland. Explore the nation's beautiful scenery as you glide over the rivers and lakes and discover an angler's paradise.

Booking a getaway onboard a boat gives you the chance to see much more of a destination than if you'd organised a traditional holiday based in one area. It also allows you to explore parts of your location you may not be able to see by any other means.

And Ireland is a superb spot to choose for this type of vacation, as you can admire the stunning countryside scenery, visit ancient sites, wander through beautiful national parkland and enjoy a round on championship golf courses.

A boating holiday in the nation is a particularly good idea if you're a fan of fishing, as the rivers Shannon and Erne - as well as the surrounding lakes - are well-stocked with bream, salmon, pike, perch and tench.

You might want to begin your cruise at the attractive Galway town of Portumna. The settlement is situated at the head of Lough Derg - the most scenic lake within the Shannon system and a haven for anglers. Where better to cast a line? The lake is rich in coarse fish, with bream being the dominant species.

Afterwards, make some time to visit the restored 17th century castle, which was visited by both King James I and Queen Elizabeth I, or, if you fancy stretching your legs, make your way to Portumna Forest Park.

This mile-long signposted trail is ideal for anyone keen on walking and will give you the opportunity to admire a wealth of exotic trees.

Travel south onboard your boat and you'll arrive at the water sport haven of Dromineer. Here you can climb ashore and take in the sight of the 11th century tower house before trying your hand at yachting or the exhilarating pastime of para-motoring. For something a little more sedate, you might prefer to fish for some local catch at the nearby Nenagh River.

Your next stop might be the beautiful village of Mountshannon, with its attractively landscaped harbour and excellent fishing facilities. The scenery here is second to none, with the Sliabh Aughty Mountains acting as a backdrop. If you feel like strapping on your hiking boots, the peaks are a great place for a trek or a long cycle ride.

Alternatively, you might like to visit the 4.5 acre-Aistear Iniscealtra Community Park for a leisurely stroll or to explore the maze.

Back on your boat; make your way to Holy Island - a famous monastic site with many antique landmarks to discover. Among them is a holy well, a round tower, the ruins of six churches and a bargaining stone. The island is thought to date back to the sixth century, when St Colum Mac Cremthainn set up a monastic settlement here.

Killaloe is also worth a visit, home to a restored 13th century cathedral and surrounded by myth and legend. There's a 13-arch bridge to admire and a popular marina to visit whether you'd just like to take a look at the views or have a go at sailing or canoeing.

Another place you might like to stop off at during fishing holidays in Ireland is Drumshanbo in the heart of County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, the area is well-known for its coarse fishing facilities, as well as for the many walking opportunities the locale presents.

You can find out more about the area at the visitor's centre, which highlights the history of coal and iron mining, while nearby you can go for a swim or a game of tennis at Acres Lake.

During your break on the water be sure to moor up for a while at Lanesborough. Renowned for its fishing, the area is a great spot for catching perch, eels, roach, pike and tench, and there's also a pitch and putt course here. Golfing fans might want to head on to Glasson, where you can practice your swing on a championship course.

Alternatively, head to Athlone Golf Club in Hodson Bay if you're an experienced golfer looking for a challenge. Here you admire views of Lough Rea as you play on the greens, which have hosted numerous championships since the club was founded in 1892.

Book a boating holiday in Ireland and you're sure to come across plenty of things to do on waterways, whether you enjoy fishing, walking or playing golf!