Other exotic spots to paddle about in the water

FOR a lot of holidaymakers, water sports extend only to the swimming pool or a dip in the sea.

But for the rest whole holidays are planned on activities on the water.

Kayaking is a holiday that can be enjoyed by all the family.

Croatia’s inlets are ideal for manoeuvring your kayak, and it truly is the best place to get up close and personal with nature.

The Rambler found Croatia Tours’ Dubrovnik and Sea Kayaking seven-night offer on the sample dates of August 2-9 from €1394pp.

For the first three nights you will be based in the historic town of Dubrovnik where you can unwind before getting your feet wet... well, that will be after you disembark.

You will then be transferred to the Island of Lopud in the Elaphite Islands, dotted around 17kms off the Dubrovnik coast. The team set out the kayaking programme. Each daily route is two to three hours of easy sea paddling.

The kayaking is suitable for all ages between 14 and late 60s and no previous kayaking experience is necessary. On the islands you can cycle, explore and sample the local food and drink.

For all this you will get return flights, seven breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners and use of all equipment. Contact Croatia Tours (www.croatia.ie/(01) 878 0800.

If, of couse, you are on holiday, and being Irish, then there’s a good chance that might be Spain, then check out www.paddleinspain.com. As a sample in Barcelona The Rambler found a kayaking trip based for a minimum of four inc. the activity and lunch and round trip transfer for €85pp. For two it is €115pp.

Equally at home here Kayaking. ie (086) 168 4755 will point you in the right direction.

And The 4* George Hotel and GetWest offer A Date Night on the River Shannon summer package which includes kayaking under the stars. From €153pp you’ll also get a three-course dinner and extras, as well as freshly prepared breakfast the following morning and a late check out. See www.georgelimerick.com/(061) 460 400.