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Explore Ireland’s Barrow River: Three-Day Canoe Adventure from Leighlinbridge to St. Mullins - Borris

Explore Ireland’s Barrow River: Three-Day Canoe Adventure from Leighlinbridge to St. Mullins

Borrismoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for intermediate fitness—some upper-body endurance and balance is helpful for multi-day paddling.

Overview

Paddle the peaceful Barrow River over three days from Leighlinbridge to St. Mullins, exploring Ireland’s rich history, charming villages, and lush landscapes. Discover the perfect blend of nature and culture on this self-guided canoe trip.

Borris, County Carlow

Three Day Canoe Hire - Leighlinbridge to St. Mullins

3 Days • Self-Guided Trails

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Adventure Photos

Three Day Canoe Hire - Leighlinbridge to St. Mullins photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ireland's Barrow River on a three-day canoeing adventure. Paddle through a historic landscape rich with ancient tales, charming villages, and stunning nature. Enjoy delightful pit stops at local cafes, explore hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this enchanting waterway.

Immerse Yourself In Nature

Duration

3 Days

About

Truly appreciate the natural beauty that Ireland has to offer!

The Barrow river has for many many years been the canoe trail of choice for discerning escapers of city life, nature lovers and adventure seekers in all forms. This enchanting waterway winds its way through a unique nature corridor in Ireland's South-East. The setting is stunning, to say the least, and has been written about by journalists from around the world. It was even voted 38 on Rough Guides 1001 things to Make the most of your time on Earth.

Travel through part of Ireland’s Ancient East and explore the many gems along the way. Follow the trail travelled by the High Kings of Ireland, the Monks and even what the Vikings embarked on hundreds of years ago. The Barrow is one of the safest and most rewarding rivers in Ireland on which to embark on a canoe and camping adventure.

Explore the many little towns and villages as you float South. Stop off for food in one of the many restaurants, cafes and Bars. Revel in stillness, the quiet and the nature that envelopes the river all the way. Marvel at sparkling hand made weirs. Discover all the gems along the way including castles, ancients oak woods, stately mansions, quaint cottages, old stone bridges, secluded swimming spots, wild campsites and so much flora and fauna.

There is a gorgous pit stop in Goresbridge called the Goodly Barrow. This is a gorgeous Cafe and Museum full of fantastic stories and delicious meals. A great option to fuel up along your epic adventure. Also further down river in Clashganny is the Little Black Box. They provide an outragous coffee and a pick me up pastry. You dont want to paddle past these little gems.

If your staying or passing through Graiguenamanagh and have some free time check out the new sauna in town - The Hot Box Sauna. Prebooking online essential.

PLEASE NOTE : Very Important

We do not provide any form of insurance with our canoe hire service. We therefore highly recommend that you take out a travel or holiday insurance policy that will cover canoeing activity up to level / grade 2 water. It is also recommended that if you are bringing along electronic items that you have them insured and that you have provided waterproof storage for each. (Note: ZipLock bags are not waterproof.)

  • It is a condition of hire that you will not consume alcohol while canoeing.

  • It is a condition of hire that you will not attempt to shoot or go down any weirs while still in the canoe. This activity is dangerous and could very easily lead to injury or loss or damage to property. There is a flat-water navigation channel running the entire length of the waterway which avoids all weirs and rapids.

There will be some heavy lifting in order to get the canoes around the LOCKS !

Buoyancy jackets are provided for each individual and by law you are required to wear them at all times while canoeing. Helmets can also be provided.

Canoes can be picked up from Graignamanagh or from St Mullins if you choose to finish there. However, you may be asked to secure them until we can get there or leave them in the storage paddock.

Anyone finishing in St Mullins will either do a car transfer or get a taxi back. (Taxi not included) A delicious meal and homemade desserts are available in The Mullichain so make sure you arrive before closing time at 6 pm.

Adventure Tips

Check Weather Conditions

The Barrow River’s water levels vary; check local forecasts and river conditions before setting out to ensure a safe trip.

Bring a Dry Bag

Protect your gear from river spray and occasional rain with a waterproof dry bag.

Plan Your Pit Stops

Map out local cafes and shops in Leighlinbridge and St. Mullins to restock and enjoy authentic Irish fare along the way.

Wear Layered Clothing

Irish weather can change quickly; dressing in layers keeps you comfortable during cool mornings and warmer afternoons.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • European otter
  • Kingfisher

History

St. Mullins was an important early Christian monastic site dating back to the 7th century, enriching the cultural fabric along the river.

Conservation

Operators partner with local groups to promote sustainable tourism, minimizing impact on the Barrow’s delicate river ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Borris

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

A safety essential for all paddlers on open water.

Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Keeps clothes, electronics, and food dry throughout your trip.

Waterproof Hiking Boots or Sandals

Useful for comfortable riverbank walking during spring stops.

spring specific

Insulating Fleece

Essential

Keeps you warm on cooler paddling mornings and evenings in autumn.

fall specific