Things To Do
On the Wild Atlantic Way, at the Southern gateway into Donegal, Lough Mardal Lodge is the perfect base for an adventure holiday with some of the Irish North West’s most spectacular adventure spots within 30 minutes.
Water Based Activites in South Donegal
On Site Lake
The lake here is beautiful for swimming in and you are welcome to bring your own Stand Up Paddle Board or Kayak/Canoe.
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Guided SUP
Guided SUP sessions can be booked here on our lake or out for a half day on the Atlantic Ocean (includes collection & drop off) exploring caves and gorges - more details are available on our Optional Extra page. It can be booked through us at time of booking or we can add it onto any existing booking. All equipment is provided and abilities catered for.
Surfing & Bodyboarding
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The Wild Atlantic Way's Surf Coast
The beautifully wild and rugged stretch of coast along the Wild Atlantic Way between Bundoran and Mullaghmore Head is renowned amongst sufers across the globe. There is a wide range of surf breaks to suit all levels of skill and ability from the world class reef breaks around Bundoran to the beach break at Rossnowlagh and for the brave the big-wave surf at Mullaghmore.
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Surfing lesson in Rossnowlagh on Donegal Bay, just a 15 min drive, can be booked directly with us as an Optional Extra in the booking process or just get in touch if you have an existing booking and we can add it on.
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Big-Wave Surfing at Mullaghmore (30mins) - whether you're a big wave charger or just want to stand in awe and watch from the headland this is the spot for world renowned Big-Wave Surfing.
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Scuba-Diving and Snorkelling
Off-Shore Watersports in Mullaghmore.
Cycling
Bicycle Hire is available in Bundoran at The Bike Stop / Ph. 00353 85 248 8317
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Mountain Biking
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The two closest routes are within a 20 minute drive; the Barnes Mor Gap and Famine Pot Loops. Check All Trails for more information.
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The North West Trail - This 326km route enjoys dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, with scenic cycling in remote uplands and through rural towns and villages passing through the main towns of Enniskillen, Sligo, Donegal (passing within 5km of Lough Mardal Lodge), Lifford, Strabane and Omagh.
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Ballyshannon Cycle Hub - Offers shorter (35km) looped cycle routes which take you on a tour of the spectacular coastal scenery of Ballyshannon and Bundoran in County Donegal.
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Hiking/Walking
Without venturing any further than the grounds of Lough Mardal Lodge you are already in an idyllic location for cross country hiking & hill-walking. With 90 acres to explore there are diverse terrains from lakeshore paths and wildflower meadows to mossy peatland and steep heather hills. At its summit you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views stretching from the Dartry mountains in the South to Sliabh Liag on the South West, Donegal Bay and the Bluestack mountains.
Locally there are also a huge range of hikes and trails which we can recommend to you depending on your fitness level. Some of which are listed on our Explore page, e.g. Breesy Mountain which is just a few minutes drive from here.
Rock Climbing
Unique Ascent - Rock Climbing, Mountain Training courses and a complete climber's guide to Donegal.​
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Beach Horse Riding
Beach Horse Riding for experienced riders and Sand Dune Trails for complete beginners on Tullan Strand. Can be booked directly with us as an Add-on in the booking process. Kid's 3-day and 5-day pony camps also available.
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Morning Beach Yoga
Zia has a studio locally and also does very popular morning Beach Yoga sessions on Rossnowlagh Beach (15 minute drive) with the option of a dip in the ocean afterwards.
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