GO WHITEWATER KAYAKING IN IRELAND? REALLY?

Last updated on November 10, 2024

Ireland is flat and boring – yes ok, you can paddle along the coast, but there are no mountains for white water, are there? Far from it!

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Intro

Ireland is a paradise for whitewater kayak paddlers and whitewater paddling is a popular sport in Ireland. Want to know how the Irish can turn up the heat when it comes to water sports? Then check out this Youtube video: Galway Fest 2018, Ireland Whitewater Kayaking.

There are several low mountain ranges in Ireland and there are many natural rivers where you can and may paddle! I found a nice inspiration on Youtube: Cork/Kerry Whitewater Kayaking.

Is that cool? Then read on:

Best time to go whitewater paddling in Ireland

Water levels vary naturally – they are higher in spring and autumn and lower in summer. In winter there can even be too much water for many stretches. Overall, though, the Emerald Isle gets enough rain for most of the year – that’s why the island is so green.

If you consider that there is hardly any frost in Ireland, the whitewater season is even open almost all year round for paddlers who don’t shy away from cold water.

If I am to believe experienced Irish whitewater paddlers, the later spring and autumn are the best times for whitewater paddling in Ireland.

By the way, we live in Ireland (second home) for many years now, originating from Germany. We have travelled the island again and again over many years and therefore know it very well.

What levels of white water difficulty are there in Ireland?

We can answer that quickly: everything from grade 1 to grade 4 is abundantly represented and there are also some stretches that reach a grade 5, depending on the conditions.

Where can I paddle grade white water in Ireland?

Practically everywhere, starting with the River Liffey just outside Dublin – here’s a great video: Source to Sea of the river Liffey by kayak.

On the River Liffey just outside Dublin you will also find the Canoeing Irleland training centre (www.canoe.ie). Have a look at the website, there is some interesting information and if you are in Ireland for a longer period of time, e.g. for study or work, you can also do training courses there.

Just a few metres away you will find the Wildwater Kayak Club. Here you can also take courses and join like-minded people.

If you’re an experienced white water paddler and just want to research some nice rivers for your upcoming trip to Ireland, check out the Irish Wild Water site. There you will find river descriptions, levels of difficulty and water levels.

Finally

Most people don’t think of Ireland when it comes to white water paddling – but why not take your kayak along and combine your holiday trip with a bit of sparkling water sports?

I hope I’ve been able to inspire you with this article and give you some good sources of information along the way.

Have fun in the water in Ireland!