6 unusual and unique family-friendly activities to try in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands this autumn

Ann Cronin

Outdoor fun for every age group.

The summer holidays might be over, but we can still plan a few more family adventures over the next few weeks or months.

From hydro biking to boat tours, there are so many unique activities and experiences around the country that are well worth trying out, especially for families looking to spend more time outdoors over the coming weeks.

With that in mind, we’ve teamed up with DiscoverIreland to put together some exciting things to see and do with kids in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands this autumn.

Here are our top picks…

1. Lough Ree Access For All Boat Tours – Co. Roscommon

Set sail across Lough Ree and take in the incredible flora and fauna that call this lakeside home, aboard a fully-accessible sightseeing cruise.

Lough Ree Access For All Boat Trips offer fully accessible boat tours in Roscommon, providing exciting water-based adventures for people with disabilities. Their boat allows access for up to three wheelchair users at a time and carers or assistants are transported for free, making it a stress-free way to discover Lough Ree’s stunning lakeside scenery.

Book a trip today HERE.

2. Rent a family fun bike with Dick’s Bike Hire – Co. Galway

Planning a trip to Galway? Take in the sites of Portumna with a family fun bike from Dick’s Bike Hire.

Ideal for an active day out, Dick’s range of family fun bikes include two and three person tandems, four-wheelers and bikes with baby seats attached. And when it comes to stopping off for lunch, Dick’s Bike Hire will even prep a tasty vegan picnic basket for your trip if you give them a call in advance.

You can book a family fun bike HERE.

3. Have fun and get fit with a Hydro Bikes Tour on Carafin Lake – Co. Cavan

Looking for a family-friendly day out in Cavan? For an active day out that’s suitable for every age group, explore Lake Carafin’s stunning scenery aboard your very own hydro bike.

Hydro Bikes are easy to steer and control as they’re lightweight and 100% pedal powered. Available to rent from Carafin Lodge, the hydro bikes are an ideal activity to enjoy with young kids and an easy way to discover Cavan and Carafin’s lakeside from an entirely new perspective.

Find out more HERE.

4. Unwind on a yoga and hiking retreat with Mid Ireland Adventure – Co. Offaly

Need a break? Mid Ireland Adventure can help you relax and unwind with the ultimate yoga retreat in Co. Offaly.

The yoga retreats are run by Linann Yoga Ireland and Mid Ireland Adventure, offering half-day wellness experiences for anyone looking for a relaxing day out in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. These experiences include yoga classes, adventure activities and tours, helping you to unplug from everyday life and get back into nature.

Contact Linann Yoga Ireland to find out more about these retreats.

5. Take a sunset hot tub cruise along the River Shannon – Co. Westmeath

Fancy a cruise beneath the stars? Set sail across Lough Ree aboard The Hot Tub Boat.

Ideal for special occasions, you and your five pals can relax in the on-board hot tub, taking in some of the amazing scenery surrounding Lough Ree or, if you opt for an evening trip, enjoy some stargazing underneath the unspoiled night sky. You can even connect your playlist of choice to the boat’s speakers and bring your own alcohol on board, with coolers available to use throughout your journey.

Find out more HERE.

6. Get back into nature with a Mud Bugs Welly Walks Tour – Co. Leitrim

Grab your wellies and explore some local natural wonders on a Mud Bugs walking tour. Every month, the Mud Bugs Welly Walks Tour explores a different location in Leitrim, including Derrycassin Woods, Killykeen Forest Park and Garadice Lake. Along a 1.5 hour stroll, you’ll get to join in on some fun activities and adventures in Leitrim’s natural world, and enjoy some refreshments along the way.

Find out more HERE.