Castlewellan is a fantastic spot for water-based adventures, thanks to its stunning location within County Down and the UNESCO Geopark designation. Its calm, sheltered waters of Castlewellan Lake make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Among the top options, we especially like the Canadian Canoe Experience, offering a peaceful way to connect with nature, and the Sit on Top Kayak Experience, perfect for exploring with family. Both tours are rated 5 out of 5 stars and provide a chance to soak in the beautiful Mourne Mountains from a different perspective. If you’re looking for a memorable day on the water, either of these experiences will serve you well.
Below, we’ve rounded up the two best canoe and kayak experiences in Castlewellan: one that emphasizes a gentle paddle with a chance to see local wildlife, and another designed for family fun and exploring the stunning landscape from the water. Both are perfect for a relaxing day and include helpful amenities like coffee, showers, and parking.
1. Castlewellan : Canadian canoe Experience
At number 1 on our list is the Canadian Canoe Experience, a gentle paddle on the sheltered waters of Castlewellan Lake. This tour is ideal for adventurers of all ages and abilities because it requires no previous experience — just some enthusiasm. The open Canadian canoes allow you to glide quietly across the water, giving you the perfect chance to spot otters, kingfishers, and even red kites soaring overhead.
The experience is priced at $87 per group of up to 2 people, making it a reasonably priced way to enjoy a day outdoors. It’s especially appealing to those who want to relax, connect with nature, and soak in the peaceful surroundings of Mourne’s outdoor capital. Facilities like a coffee dock, changing rooms, showers, and parking make it convenient, and the UNESCO Geopark setting adds an extra touch of significance to your trip.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on serenity and wildlife observation. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate quiet moments on the water. The small group size means a personalized experience, and the calm waters guarantee a relaxing paddle.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, wildlife-rich paddle that’s accessible for all, the Canadian Canoe Experience offers excellent value and genuine connection with nature.
2. Castlewellan: Sit on Top Kayak Experience
Number 2 on our list is the Sit on Top Kayak Experience, a fun and flexible way to explore Castlewellan Lake at your own pace. This experience is also rated 5 out of 5 stars, and like the canoe trip, it’s suitable for adventurers of all ages and abilities. You can rent a tandem kayak to explore with family or friends, making it ideal for a shared adventure.
What makes this tour distinctive is the opportunity to see the Mourne Mountains from a different angle, providing sweeping views that are perfect for photography or simply taking in the scenery. The rental includes everything you need, and the facilities—coffee dock, changing rooms, showers, parking—are all on-site, so convenience isn’t compromised.
The value here lies in the flexibility: you can take your time, paddle around the lake—or even venture toward the estate’s historic areas, which date back over 300 years. The water safety equipment is included, and the simple setup makes it accessible even for beginners.
Reviewers say this is a “great activity for families” and mention how easy it is to handle the kayaks, even for first-timers. The ability to explore with minimal instruction makes it appealing to those who want to be independent but still have the safety net of rental support.
Bottom Line: For an easy, family-friendly way to experience Castlewellan’s beauty from the water, the sit-on-top kayak offers freedom, scenic views, and solid value.
How to Choose Between the Canoe & Kayak Experiences
Picking the right water adventure depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re after a tranquil paddle that emphasizes wildlife viewing and a peaceful atmosphere, the Canadian Canoe Experience is your best bet. It’s perfect if you want a quiet day with nature and don’t mind paddling in a traditional canoe.
On the other hand, if family fun and independent exploration appeal more to you, then the Sit on Top Kayak Experience offers easy handling and the chance to see the scenic landscape from a different perspective. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a more casual, flexible outing.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on water, and whether you’d like to paddle in a canoe or sit on a kayak. Both tours are available for about a day’s outing—just check availability and starting times to plan your trip.
Final Thoughts
Castlewellan offers outdoor lovers a fantastic variety of canoeing and kayaking options. The Canadian Canoe Experience provides a peaceful, wildlife-rich paddle, appealing to nature lovers and those seeking serenity. Meanwhile, the Sit on Top Kayak Experience is ideal for families, casual explorers, or anyone wanting an easy way to enjoy Castlewellan Lake’s stunning scenery.
If you’re planning a trip, consider your interests—whether wildlife, scenery, or family fun—and book early to secure your preferred time. Both experiences promise a memorable day on the water and a fresh perspective on this beautiful corner of Northern Ireland.
