From Dublin: Stand Up Paddleboarding Experience

Take a break from the bustling city and explore the serene waters of Castlewellan Lake, nestled within a UNESCO Geopark just 1.5 hours from Dublin. This stand up paddleboarding experience promises a day of excitement and relaxation, surrounded by the breathtaking Mourne Mountains. With comprehensive safety briefings, top-notch equipment, and experienced instructors, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure. What’s waiting for you beyond the Dublin skyline?

Key Points

• Castlewellan Lake in Northern Ireland’s Outdoor Capital, located 1.5 hours from Dublin, offers a serene stand up paddleboarding experience.
• Professional instructors provide comprehensive safety briefings and teach proper paddling techniques for paddlers of all ages and abilities.
• Top-of-the-range paddleboarding equipment, including wetsuits and buoyancy aids, is provided for a comfortable and secure experience.
• The stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains enhances the natural beauty of the UNESCO Geopark setting.
• Ample parking and facilities at the Lakeside Centre in Castlewellan Forest Park ensure a hassle-free start to the paddleboarding adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose Castlewellan Lake?

Castlewellan Lake offers an unparalleled stand up paddleboarding experience for visitors.

Located in Northern Ireland’s Outdoor Capital, a UNESCO Geopark, the lake provides a serene and picturesque setting for this activity.

With easy accessibility from both Belfast and Dublin, the lake’s calm waters make it an ideal destination for paddlers of all ages and abilities.

Castlewellan Lake’s calm waters and easy accessibility from Belfast and Dublin make it an ideal destination for paddlers of all levels.

The lake’s stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains adds to the overall experience, creating a truly memorable adventure.

Whether you’re a first-time paddler or an experienced enthusiast, Castlewellan Lake promises an unforgettable stand up paddleboarding experience.

What to Expect During the Stand Up Paddleboarding Experience

Upon arrival at the Lakeside Centre in Castlewellan Forest Park, you will be greeted by the friendly staff who’ll provide a comprehensive safety briefing and introduction to stand up paddleboarding (SUP).

Next, they’ll be fitted with top-of-the-range equipment, including a buoyancy aid, wetsuit, and paddle.

Once ready, you will embark on the serene Castlewellan Lake, learning proper paddling techniques from experienced instructors.

Throughout the session, they’ll have the opportunity to try various maneuvers and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.

At the end, participants can relax in the facility’s changing rooms and grab a hot beverage.

Preparing for Your SUP Adventure

Before embarking on the stand up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure, participants should ensure they come prepared.

They’ll need comfortable, quick-drying clothing and shoes that can get wet. Bringing a towel is also recommended, as is sun protection like a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Plus, participants should pack any personal items they might need, such as a water bottle and snacks. The center provides wetsuits, but those who tend to get cold may want to bring their own.

Transportation and Meeting Point

Participants will find the meeting point at the Lakeside Centre, located within Castlewellan Forest Park near the main car park. The location is easily accessible, with travel times of 45 minutes from Belfast and 1.5 hours from Dublin.

Here are the key details:

1. The Lakeside Centre serves as the meeting point, where paddlers can access the necessary equipment and facilities.

2. The centre is situated within the Castlewellan Forest Park, a UNESCO Geopark known for its natural beauty.

3. Ample parking is available at the main car park, making the meeting point convenient for all participants.

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Equipment and Gear Provided

Top-of-the-range SUP boards are provided for the Stand Up Paddleboarding experience.

The package includes a leash, buoyancy aid, paddle, wetsuit (recommended), and an accessories pack with a first aid kit. Paddlers will also have access to the center’s facilities, which include changing rooms, showers, a coffee dock, and parking.

Safety is a priority, so participants must wear buoyancy aids and leashes at all times. A damage waiver protects against accidental damage to the board, though it excludes loss or damage to accessories.

Everything paddlers need for a successful outing is included in the experience.

Safety Protocols and Support

Safety is of paramount importance during the Stand Up Paddleboarding experience.

All paddlers must wear provided buoyancy aids and leashes at all times for their own protection. A support number is available from 9am-5pm should any assistance be required.

Plus, a Damage Waiver protects against accidental damage to the board, though it excludes loss or damage to accessories.

Key safety protocols include:

1. Wearing buoyancy aids and leashes at all times.

2. Accessibility to a support number during operating hours.

3. Damage Waiver covering accidental board damage.

These measures ensure a safe and enjoyable Stand Up Paddleboarding adventure.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Stand Up Paddleboarding experience is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it an inclusive activity for participants of diverse backgrounds.

Located in Northern Ireland’s Outdoor Capital, a UNESCO Geopark, the activity is easily accessible from both Belfast (45 mins) and Dublin (1.5 hours).

The meeting point at the Lakeside Centre in Castlewellan Forest Park offers convenient facilities like changing rooms, showers, and parking.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, this experience caters to everyone, ensuring an enjoyable and safe time on the water.

Making the Most of Your Day

When arriving at the Lakeside Centre, paddlers can make the most of their day by taking advantage of the facility’s convenient amenities.

The centre offers:

1. Changing rooms and showers to prepare for and freshen up after the paddleboarding experience.

2. A coffee dock for grabbing a hot beverage and light refreshment.

3. Ample parking to ensure a hassle-free arrival and departure.

With these facilities at hand, paddlers can transition seamlessly from land to water and back again, maximizing their time on the lake and creating an enjoyable, well-rounded outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participation?

The minimum age requirement for participation is 1 year and above. Children and youths must be accompanied by a participating adult to take part in the stand up paddleboarding experience.

Can I Bring My Own Stand up Paddleboard?

The experience providers don’t allow participants to bring their own stand up paddleboards. All the necessary equipment, including top-of-the-range SUP boards, is provided as part of the activity package.

Is Food and Refreshment Available On-Site?

Yes, the Lakeside Centre at Castlewellan Forest Park offers a coffee dock where visitors can purchase refreshments. Guests can enjoy their drinks while taking in the scenic views of the lake.

Can I Rent a Wetsuit if I Don’t Have One?

Yes, wetsuits are included in the rental package. Paddlers can use the provided wetsuit, which is recommended for comfort and warmth during the Stand Up Paddleboarding experience at Castlewellan Lake.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Experience?

Yes, participants can extend the duration of the paddleboarding experience. Additional time can be booked on the day, subject to availability, for a supplementary fee.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable stand-up paddleboarding adventure at Castlewellan Lake, just 1.5 hours from Dublin. Surrounded by the stunning Mourne Mountains, you’ll enjoy serene waters and top-notch equipment with experienced instructors. After your session, unwind in the changing rooms with hot beverages, making it a truly memorable day out. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the beauty of this UNESCO Geopark.

You can check availability for your dates here: