THINGS TO DO
On the Wild Atlantic Way, at the Southern gateway into Donegal, Lough Mardal Lodge is the perfect base for an adventure holiday with some of the Irish North West’s most spectacular adventure spots within 30 minutes.
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Surfing & Bodyboarding
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The Wild Atlantic Way's Surf Coast
The beautifully wild and rugged stretch of coast along the Wild Atlantic Way between Bundoran and Mullaghmore Head is renowned amongst sufers across the globe. There is a wide range of surf breaks to suit all levels of skill and ability from the world class reef breaks around Bundoran to the beach break at Rossnowlagh and for the brave the big-wave surf at Mullaghmore.
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Surfing lessons at one of Ireland's premier Surf School in Rossnowlagh on Donegal Bay, just 12km away, can be booked directly with us as an Add-on in the booking process
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Donegal Adventure Centre in Bundoran hires surf boards, body boards, wet suits and roof racks. 20km away.
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Donegal Kite Surfing School for Kite Surfing, Power Kite and Kite Buggy lessons.
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Big-Wave Surfing at Mullaghmore - whether you're a big wave charger or just want to stand in awe and watch from the headland this is the spot for world renowned Big-Wave Surfing.
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The Bundoran Bodyboarding School is the only surf school in Ireland dedicated to the sport of bodyboarding. Ph. Tel: 00353 (0)83 4511171.
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Guided SUP
Guided SUP sessions can be booked here on our lake or out on the Atlantic sea - simply select the Optional Extra at time of booking on our website. All equipment is provided and abilities catered for. If you've already booked simply get in touch and we can add it onto your booking.
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Scuba-Diving and Snorkelling
Off-Shore Watersports in Mullaghmore.
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Rock Climbing
Unique Ascent - Rock Climbing, Mountain Training courses and a complete climber's guide to Donegal.
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Adventure Trips & Tours
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Wilderness Ireland - Experience iconic Irish landmarks the adventurous way and armed with all the inside knowledge.
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Northwest Adventure Tours - By land and sea, once in lifetime trips taking you into the beautiful wilderness of the Northwest of Ireland.
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Horse-riding
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Beach Horse Riding for experienced riders and Sand Dune Trails for complete beginners, 20 minutes away on Tullan Strand. Can be booked directly with us as an Add-on in the booking process. Kid's 3-day and 5-day pony camps also available.
Cycling
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Bicycle Hire is available in Bundoran at The Bike Stop / Ph. (085) 248 8317
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Mountain Biking
The two closest routes are within a 20 minute drive; the Barnes Mor Gap and Famine Pot Loops. Check All Trails for more information.
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The North West Trail - This 326km route enjoys dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, with scenic cycling in remote uplands and through rural towns and villages passing through the main towns of Enniskillen, Sligo, Donegal (passing within 5km of Lough Mardal Lodge), Lifford, Strabane and Omagh.
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Ballyshannon Cycle Hub - Offers shorter (35km) looped cycle routes which take you on a tour of the spectacular coastal scenery of Ballyshannon and Bundoran in County Donegal.
Hiking & Hill Walking
Without venturing any further than the grounds of Lough Mardal Lodge you are already in an idyllic location for cross country hiking & hill-walking. With 90 acres to explore there are diverse terrains from lakeshore paths and wildflower meadows to mossy peatland and steep heather hills. At its summit you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views stretching from the Dartry mountains in the South to Sliabh Liag on the South West, Donegal Bay and the Bluestack mountains.
Locally there are also a huge range of hikes and trails which we can recommend to you depending on your fitness level.
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Lake Activities
With two private lakes at Lough Mardal Lodge there are water-based activities to enjoy here on site; swimming, fishing (Pike & Perch) or SUP. You are also welcome to bring your own kayak or canoe.
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The Arts
Abbey Arts Centre - 12.5kmBallyshannonThe Centre offers a rich programme of theatre, music, comedy, dance, visual arts, education and film. Check their Programme of Upcoming Events to see what on.
Cinema
Eclipse Cinema - 19.7km Bundoran. For the rainy days, all the latest film releases with premium 'Directors Lounge' reclined seating and food delivered to your seat!