Unleash your child's inner adventurer at Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre’s summer camp. With activities from canoeing to climbing, this week-long program builds confidence amid Ireland’s stunning landscapes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Children should be active and comfortable with moderate physical activity, but no advanced fitness is required.
Wildlife
History
Gartan is historically significant as a site of early Irish settlement and has long been associated with outdoor education in the region.
Conservation
The camp emphasizes environmental awareness, practicing Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact and protect local ecosystems.
Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre
Unleash your child's inner adventurer at Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre’s summer camp. With activities from canoeing to climbing, this week-long program builds confidence amid Ireland’s stunning landscapes.
Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre, based in Downings, County Donegal, provides outdoor education and supervised activity programmes focused on water sports and beach-based adventure. The centre runs a range of summer camps and coaching courses designed for children and teenagers, with clearly defined age groups and daily schedules.
Programmes include Kids Camp 6–9 Years (10am–4pm, Monday–Friday) and Adventure Camp 10–16 Years (10am–4pm, Monday–Friday). Beach-based options include Downings Beach Camp for ages 8+, and progressive five-session courses for Windsurfing and Sailing at Downings for ages 10–17. Activities listed for camps include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, climbing, archery, coasteering and team games. Daily camp hours and multi-day coaching structures enable skill progression over consecutive sessions.
Instruction is delivered by qualified instructors using progressive coaching formats where five-session blocks are specified for windsurfing and sailing. The coastal location in Downings provides direct beach and sea access for water-sport coaching and supervised marine activities. Emphasis is placed on practical skill development, outdoor safety and personal growth through team activities and guided challenges. Booking details, exact dates and further logistical information are provided through official booking channels and programme listings. Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre serves families and young people seeking structured outdoor learning, water-sport coaching and summer activity weeks in County Donegal.
Location
Downings, Co. Donegal
Coastal base at Downings Beach
Daily Hours
10am–4pm
Kids & Adventure camps schedule
Age Range
6–17 years
Programs for children and teens
Featured Activities
Sailing, Windsurfing, Coasteering
Beach and water‑sport focus
Secure a spot for summer camps, windsurfing and sailing coaching — spaces run on scheduled sessions and daily 10am–4pm programmes.
Bring layered clothing
Weather can change quickly; packing layers ensures your child stays comfortable throughout the day.
Stay hydrated
Ensure children have water bottles to keep hydrated during active outdoor play.
Apply sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure during outdoor activities.
Wear sturdy footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential for climbing and forest activities.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Reliable footwear is necessary for climbing, walking, and forest activities.
all
Waterproof jacket
Keeps kids dry during unpredictable Irish weather and outdoor play.
spring; fall; winter
Sun hat and sunglasses
Protection from sun exposure during peak sunlight hours.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Helps keep children hydrated throughout active days.
all