things to do
It's all about doing as little as possible. On arrival at Coolbawn Quay we encourage guests to abandon the car for the duration of their stay.
Besides the onsite facilities, there are a host of activities to be enjoyed in this beautiful natural setting to clear the mind and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
go for a walk
Take a stroll out by the Marina and watch the comings and goings of the boats or simply roam about the village taking time to listen to the sounds of the countryside.
Leave the village and walk to the lookout point of the local woods, The Cominchas. Tread the beautifully wild and ferny pathways, experience forest bathing and onwards to the top of the hill with spectacular views of the majestic horseshoe shaped lake below.
relax in the sauna
On the deck above the water in a charming grass roofed cabin you will find the Infrared Sauna with a warm spring water shower and treatment room…..total escape!
Infrared sauna helps relieve inflammation, stiffness and soreness by increasing blood circulation. The penetrating heat and increased blood circulation enables the muscles to relax and metabolic waste products to be carried off while restoring oxygen rich blood to the muscles. The Sauna also helps to open pores enabling a deeper penetration of products into the skin and increasing the benefits of the treatment.
Enjoy after a swim in the cold fresh water of the lake or in advance of a massage.
We recommend using the infrared sauna at least 20 mins before your treatment time.
bird watching
The reed beds surrounding the marina are a protected environment and provide shelter and home to a vast variety of bird life. For those interested in bird watching, bring the binoculars and the reference books. We will be happy to make up a packed lunch for you so you can wander around for hours enjoying nature at its best.
go for a jog
The lane leading to Coolbawn Quay is approximately 1.5km, Ballinderry 3km to the left and Coolbawn 3km to the right. For the more energetic guest, a good 10k run is a challenge along the meandering roads. On returning to the Village, plunge into the lake followed by an infrared sauna and massage, perfect to relax those muscles.
fishing
Coolbawn Quay enjoys unrestricted access to the lake providing both Course and Game Fishing. Coarse fishing may be enjoyed from within the inner harbour as the fish gather and frolic about under the deck. Fishing boats are available for hire locally.
take a dip - wild swimming
Test the soft lake waters combining natural springs and bog water and enjoy an invigorating swim in the safe inner harbour. There are some restrictions so it is best to check with reception before taking the plunge.
take a yoga or pilates class
The natural harmony on the deck makes it the perfect location for yoga from sunrise to sunset, weather permitting. The glass canopy on the lawn, overlooking the majestic lake, is available all year round. Enjoy yoga or pilates embraced by nature regardless of the elements.
loll in a hammock
Stroll out along the right of the inner harbour, past emigrants’ point and up the steps to the pine trees. You will find a host of hammocks discreetly hidden among the trees. A place of total tranquility overlooking the marina, the lake beyond and the reed beds, home to a myriad of bird life protected in this natural wildlife habitat. Read a book, take a snooze or simply watch the world float by
lake cruise
Arrange a private lake cruise from the Marina for a romantic couple or a larger group, 12 - 50 passengers. All we need is advance notice and we will be happy to help you organise the perfect cruise for you and your party. This can be organized as a pre-dinner drinks reception or to take you and your guests to a local restaurant for dinner.
go for a cycle
If you own a bike and like to cycle, bring it with you. There are extensive cycle tracks for an energetic day of exercise and exploration.
Keeper Hill Cycling Tour
A one day tour with sign posts to the highest point in the Silvermines mountain range. The tour starts and finishes at the Tourist Office, 50 Pearse Street, Nenagh. The terrain is mainly lowland but the final climb to Keeper hill is tough and challenging.
Tourist Office - 067 31610
If you are looking to hire a bike to explore the beautiful Irish countyside then come to Moynans in Nenagh (067 31293) They stock a wide range of mountain bike + hybrid bikes buring the bike hire season. They can also offer advice on routes in the Tipperary area to match your ability.
water activities
For large groups we can help organise Outdoor Water Pursuits on the lake. These include sailing, canoeing, paddle boarding, water skiing and wake boarding.
blissful therapies
A natural water source deep beneath the village is our water source…..treat yourself to a blissful Elemis treatment in one of our luxurious treatment suites or a massage in a grass roofed cabin over the water Advanced booking essential.
golf
There are a number of world standard golf courses nearby:
Nenagh Golf Club - 067 31476
18 hole Golf Course situated 25 mins from Coolbawn Quay
www.nenaghgolfclub.com
Portumna Golf Club - 0909 741059
18 hole Golf Course situated 35 mins from Coolbawn Quay
www.portumnagolfclub.ie
Birr Golf Club - 05791 20082
18 hole Golf Course situated 35 mins from Coolbawn Quay
www.birrgolfclub.com
horseriding
Horse Riding lessons for all ability levels & trekking can be arranged locally by prior appointment.
take in the rays
When all is perfect spending time on the deck under a clear blue sky is blissful. Definitely a must with 360 degrees of uninterrupted sunshine. No need to move for drinks or lunch, just call the Clubhouse and it will be served to you without moving an inch.
hanly woolen mills
Located 15 minutes drive from Coolbawn Quay, in Ballycommon, John Hanly and Co was established in 1893 and weaves pure wool, linen and silk fabrics. The factory shop stocks a wide selection of Hanly tweed and linen also Hanly throws, blankets, scarves, hats and caps - 067 24278
sightseeing
Lake Shore Drive www.loughderg.org
Birr Castle www.birrcastle.com
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park www.shannonheritage.com
Discover Lough Derg www.discoverloughderg.ie
Clonmacoise Natural Bog www.clonmacnoisewhsbid.org
Further afield: Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Rock of Cashel and Conemara