Things to do in Cavan - Best of Ireland

Home to stunning expanses of rolling drumlins countryside and picturesque lakes – as well as unforgettable adventures on land and on water – it’s no wonder Cavan has built up a reputation as a top staycation destination.

Canoeing on Lough Oughter

Located less than two hours drive from both Dublin and Belfast, the county has proven a particular hit among those with a grá for the great outdoors – whether that means a high-octane activity, a scenic hike, or family fun in the sun. Go rock climbing and abseiling with Rural Adventure Tours (ruraladventure.ie), or take a more relaxed approach with a guided boat tour, hire swan paddle boat, hire kayak and e-biking with Cavan Adventure Centre (cavanadventure.ie). Or, for some much-needed mindfulness, try out forest yoga with The True You Life Project (trueyoulife.ie). There’s plenty for the kids to enjoy too – including the inflatable Erne Island Water Park (cavanadventure.ie/erne-water-park).

Cavan is also home to some impressive walks, hikes and cycle routes to suit every fitness level, such as the 12km Killykeen Way and the 26km Cavan Way. Multiple trails also await you in the megalithic landscape of, and there’s no shortage of winding forest tracks, breath-taking mountain walks or lakeshore paths in the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark (cuilcaghlakelands.org). While you’re in the area, make sure to ‘do’ the Cuilcagh Boardwalk ( Stairway to Heaven), and take in the awesome landscapes this part of the world is famous for.

Gowlan Loops

Of course, Cavan is also famed as the home to 365 lakes — or, a lake for every day of the year! As such, it’s no surprise that the county is considered one of Europe’s finest fishing landscapes. There are plenty of guides to help you plan your day, with tailored trips, guided service, tackle, food, boats, and transport.

History buffs can step back in time at one of Cavan’s many heritage sites – including the reconstructed railway at Belturbet Heritage Railway, Drumlane Abbey & Round Tower, and Castle Saunderson. The unique St Kilian’s Heritage Centre (stkiliansheritagecentre.ie), meanwhile, explores the life and influence of St. Kilian, who was born in Mullagh in 640. You can also visit the largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland and learn about the area’s unique history through a visit to the captivating Cavan County Museum and WW1 Trench Experience (cavanmuseum.ie) in Ballyjamesduff.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what Cavan has to offer! The county is home to many of Ireland’s finest producers of food and drinks (createdincavan.ie), as well as The Cottage Market’s Summer Street Market, a foodie haven that takes place on the 15th - 16th of June.

Cavan is also renowned for traditional music, and has a rich cultural heritage – plus two theatres (cavanarts.ie), and a host of arts, comedy and music festivals every year (www.thisiscavan.ie/events). Cavan Arts Festival (cavanartsfestival.ie) takes place in May, and features visual arts, contemporary circus, street art, music and experimental performances across the weekend.

Festival Season in Cavan

Don’t miss Drumlinia, either! Taking place from October 20-27, the acclaimed music industry festival – the brainchild of singer-songwriter Don Mescall – will feature a performance by Daniel O’Donnell at Cavan Cathedral; Industry and Workshop Days; The Listening Rooms Music Trail and Concert; as well as other gigs and unique musical experiences.

There’s lots of various styles of accommodation available to keep everyone happy. From four-star luxury hotels to bijou lakeside cabins, a full list of accommodation is available on www.thisiscavan.ie

Whether it’s a family break, a golfing getaway, a fishing trip, a pampering package, a special reunion or simply an escape to the great outdoors, there’s no shortage of brilliant reasons to visit Cavan this summer. So, embrace the discovery, adventure and luxury that the county has to offer, and start planning your perfect staycation today!

• Ready to start planning your staycation to Cavan? Visit thisiscavan.ie