Soak in all that the medieval river town of Graiguenamanagh has to offer with this 2-day self-guided itinerary. Nestled in the scenic Barrow Valley, it is a great destination for hill walkers, cyclists, fishermen, boating enthusiasts, families and all those in search of a traditional Irish welcome while creating unique memories in an outdoor setting. The River Adventure experience offers you something completely unique as a break away where you can take time to reconnect with nature and enjoy a few hidden gems of your choosing along the way. Let the adventure begin!
Duration: 2 days (or longer, if you please!)
Location: Graiguenamanagh
Where to stay: Brandon Hill Camping, Waterside Guesthouse
Itinerary
Day 1
Kick off the day by renting a canoe from Paddle Your Own Canoe and sail leisurely down the River Barrow on a canoe through beautiful landscapes. As you paddle and drift, look out for the ancient churches, castles, beautiful old estate houses and magnificent hand built weirs – there is so much to see and enjoy.
How’s your balance? Try your hand at the popular stand-up paddleboarding guided by the experts at Pure Adventure. Don’t worry if you’re a complete beginner as the still river is ideal for giving it a go. It is a serene experience – particularly if you’re treated to a stunning sunrise or sunset during your session!
After your two hours on the river, return to refuel at Waterside Guesthouse – a converted 19th century granite corn store on the bank of the river. Watch the flow of the river with a cuppa in hand, enjoy their homemade brown bread or, if you are lucky to be travelling during harvest season, you will be able to enjoy many offerings from their very own harvest!
Now, it is time to relax and let someone else navigate the river while you enjoy a boat tour with Riverboat Adventures. Sit back for an hour and take in the scenery along the river as you sail from the quayside in Graiguenamanagh to Upper Tinnahinch Lock and Ballykeenan Lock.
Day 2
Meet with the team from Go With The Flow to get day 2 of your trip started from the river once again. The unique kayaking tour comprises spills, thrills, nature, history, folklore and tales. Explore both the canal and natural river including the locks, weirs and rapids – it is the perfect combination of relaxing flat water and adrenaline filled white water.
Take a chilled out afternoon to wander through the streets of Graiguenamanagh and discover all that it has to offer. There is always time to explore and shop! Stop off at Cushendale Woollen Mills which is one of only two remaining vertical woollen mills in Ireland today. All stages of the manufacturing process are still carried out under one roof from collecting Irish fleece, to designing, then dyeing, carding, spinning, weaving and finishing.
Click on the link below for the full itinerary and for more local tips on other fun things to see and do while you’re in Graiguenamanagh.
