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Let yourself be inspired
Let yourself be inspired
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Our canal boats
Our canal boats
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River Trips the blog
Suggested cruising options Bellanaleck*
Escape to a land of legends
** All prices are calculated on the basis of a two day weekend in low season.
Description of
the boating holiday
Renting a canal boat in Northern Ireland
Head south and cross the Irish border aboard your self-drive canal boat to arrive at Belturbet. No previous boating holiday experience is needed.
Before picking up your Nicols canal boat, go (by car) to the Marble Arch cave, classified as a “Global Geopark” by UNESCO for its geological interest. With more than 11km of tunnels formed by three underground rivers over the centuries the site is well worth the detour whether you choose a visit led by a specialist caving guide or simply take a self-guided tour. Right next to it is the Cuilcagh hiking trail (12km round trip) which is a wooden pontoon that winds through the middle of an unspoiled bog, until you reach the highest point of Cuilcagh Mountain from where the view is breathtaking. After all these adventures, head to the marina for the start of your boating holiday on the River Erne.
Upper Lough Erne: become great lakes explorers
South of Bellanaleck is Upper Lough Erne, a large lake dotted with dozens of islands, sometimes deserted, sometimes inhabited. Set sail and explore some of them aboard your canal boat and spot the few castles that sit enthroned on the shores of the lake including Belle Isle Estate, Crom Castle and Crichton Tower.
For airsoft enthusiasts 11 years old and over, the Battle Camp Activity Centre is for you! Simply wear sensible shoes and clothing – everything else is provided by the centre.
Belturbet: enjoy artistic and historical walks
Stop in Belturbet for a visit to the Railway Museum, and a hike to the Dreamscape Trail (permanent exhibition of illustrations by a local artist) on the small island of Turbet Island. For history buffs, check out the ruins of Saunderson Castle and the 6th century Drumlane Monastery.
Your boating holiday on the River Erne is coming to an end. Turn around and return to Nicols Bellanaleck's base.
SURROUNDED BY IRISH FOLKLORE
Everywhere we went we were surrounded by myths and legends. We had a lot of fun discovering them all during our boating holiday. We will definitely come back!
Isabelle and Jacques, Bourges (18)