By Rachael Funk
Get ready to put the “wild” into the Wild Atlantic Way! Though Ireland is the final word on breathtaking countryside, cozy bed and breakfasts, and unbelievably friendly locals, it’s also a treasure trove for thrilling activities you didn’t know existed!
Add unforgettable experiences to your trip and get your heart racing with some jaw-dropping adventures while you’re in the Emerald Isle. As you’re making your way from place to place, here’s what to try and where to do it!
Image posted by Instagram user @the_ places_we _ will _ go
Zorbing
If you’re seeking thrills for all experience levels, hit Funmanway Adventure Land in West Cork! Located a short jaunt from Cork City, Killarney, and the Wild Atlantic Way, this is the place to find the outdoor adventure of your dreams. Try out zorbing – originally a New Zealand thrill ride adopted by adrenaline junkies all over the world. Funmanway Adventure Land offers harnessed or hydro zorbing, which involves climbing into a giant ball and rolling down a hill at top speed. Who wouldn’t want to see the lush sights of West Cork from the inside of a transparent ball, hurtling down a hillside?!
Funmanway Adventure Land
Mount Gunnery, Derrylahan
Dunmanway
Co. Cork
Phone: 0858060020
Email: funmanway@gmail.com
Image posted by Instagram user @causewaycoasteering
Causeway Coasteering
This is not a day trip for the faint of heart! Coasteering is the fastest way to get your adrenaline fix on Ireland’s rugged coastline as you clamber over boulders, leap off of cliffs, explore shallow coastal caves, and get tossed around by the sea. Run, dive, climb, and swim with a trained local guide in rain or shine! Your high-quality winter wetsuit will keep you toasty and if the sea gets too rough, your accredited beach lifeguard guides know more sheltered areas for dives or other heart-pounding adventures so you don’t miss out on the fun without compromising safety!
Causeway Coasteering (Formerly “IrishC”)
Portrush
BT56
8GP, UK
Phone: 0787 253 7550
Email: jump@causewaycoasteering.com
Image posted by Instagram user @mvd68
Blokarting
Catch the wind in your sail as you blast across the sand at top speed in your three-wheeled blokart! Similar to dinghy sailing, blokarting involves steering a one-person vehicle over the sand, propelled by the wind via a giant sail.
Blokart Fun
Benone Beach
Belfast
BT490LQ
Phone: 078 3594 9057
Email: blokartfun@gmail.com
Image posted by Instagram user @dav3irl
Tank Driving
Alright, this is not a sport but it’s going to get your heart racing nonetheless. You want to drive a tank? Come to Wicklow, and you can drive a tank, friend!! With the guidance of an ex-British army instructor, you will learn the ins and outs of the 15-ton FV432. Then, for 10 glorious minutes, you will be barreling the 240-horse power behemoth through the inclines, dips, bumps and lumps of the muddy course to your heart’s content. Four of your friends can ride along inside the tank, or you can make them watch from afar – depends how generous you’re feeling that day…
Tank Driving Ireland (Located on the grounds of Special Ops Paintball)
Knockraheen
Roundwood
Co. Wicklow
Phone: 01 254 8045
Please note: open by pre-booked appointment only
Image posted by Instagram user @eointennyson
Llama Trekking
Take a walk on the mild side! Destress with a dalliance into the lland of the llama with a purpose-made trek through the forest in the company of a gentle giant! Follow a color-coded 5k path with your good-natured travel guide and take in Ireland’s natural beauty up close. If you’d like to extend your trek, you can opt in for a picnic package and set off with a hamper stuffed with sandwiches, fruit, yogurt, and other goodies to enjoy on your journey.
The Jungle
60 Desertmartin Road
Moneymore
Magherafelt
BT457RB
Phone: +44 028 86748881
Email: bookings@thejungleni.com
