ACTIVITIES 2020 - The Lodge at Ashford Castle
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ACTIVITIES – 2020
FISHING BOAT TRIPS
Ashford Castle is ideally situated on the banks The fishing season on Lough Corrib opens on the 15th of March
with the first hatch of duck fly in mid-March. In April the Olive
of the Cong River and Lough Corrib, one of
hatch starts and leads into the famous Mayfly. June and July
the most famous fisheries for wild brown can provide some exciting dry fly fishing. Cong River has one
trout and Atlantic salmon in Ireland. of the best Atlantic salmon runs in Ireland. The season for trout
and salmon continues until the end of September. Pike fishing is
A day on Lough Corrib can be a memorable experience, especially open all year. Fly fishing lessons are also available from March to
at about midday when you can beach your boat on one of the many September
beautiful islands. Your guide may light a fire to make a cup of tea
to enjoy with your delicious hotel packed lunch (to be booked in Our Ghillie, Frank Costello, is an Orvis endorsed guide and is
advance.) recognised as one of the most knowledgeable on Lough Corrib. Frank is also a marine and countryside
The Costello family have lived and worked on the Ashford estate guide approved by the Irish Tourist Board.
for three generations. Frank’s grandfather started as farm manager He offers guided boat trips on Lough Corrib and to its
with the Guinness family in 1917. Frank’s father Jim Costello began many beautiful islands. The boat, made by Frank himself,
as a fishing guide at Ashford Castle in 1939. is of traditional Irish design and is fully licensed by the Irish
Department of Transport. He can collect passengers and trips
can be tailored to guests’ preferences.
The Fishing Season
• Season open mid-March to end of September for salmon & trout
• Pike fishing is available all year round Traditional guided boat trips
• River opens mid-March for salmon & trout
• The best time for trout fishing is from mid-March until mid-July and again at the end of August & September Price:
• Best time for salmon is May, June & July • €125 forty minute trip for up to three passengers
Longer trips can be arranged on request.
Prices:
• €270 for three hours. (Up to three people plus guide, either 10am to 1pm or 2pm to 5pm) Guests are advised to pay directly at the boat
• €450 for seven hours. (Up to three people plus guide, 10am to 5pm, with a one hour stop on an island for packed lunch. with cash, Visa or MasterCard.
Additional charge for packed lunch and must be ordered in advance)
• €115 Fly Fishing lesson per person per hour and €90 per person for more than two people Booking is essential for this activity.
• €35 Rod hire - spinning rod For bookings and information please
• €40 Rod hire - fly rod contact Frank on T:+353 87 2524253
Guests are advised to pay directly at the boat with cash, Visa or MasterCard. or E: ashfordbay@hotmail.com
Booking is essential for this activity. All cancellations must be made at least 12 hours before time of
For bookings and information please contact Frank on T:+353 87 2524253 or E: ashfordbay@hotmail.com activity or it will incur a 50 percent charge. No show for activity
will be 100 percent charge. Ashford Bay Boat Hire reserves the
All cancellations must be made at least 12 hours before time of activity or it will incur a 50 percent charge. No show for activity will be 100 percent right to cancel any activity due to weather.
charge. Ashford Bay Boat Hire reserves the right to cancel any activity due to weather.
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
FALCONRY CLAY SHOOTING
The Shooting School is set on the
spectacular Ashford Estate and boasts an
enviable shooting history and heritage,
including the Guinness family’s world
record ‘Woodcock’ shoots of the early
1900s.
We have an excellent Sporting Clays layout with a vast
array of clay targets to shoot. In addition, we have covered
shooting stands, making it comfortable for shooting in all
weather conditions. Our excellent team of experienced and
knowledgeable instructors cater well for all abilities and
experience levels.
We offer a number of packages for individual leisure guests
through to corporate groups and large family events. Our
‘Sporting 25 Clays’ session is popular for beginners and
experienced shooters alike.For the competitive folks, we have
our in-house 50-target sporting competition, the ‘Ardilaun
Challenge’, which is hotly contested every year!
Participants do not need any prior experience at all. Tuition
and an experienced host are on hand at all times to facilitate
the experience, along with world-class equipment. The newly
opened gun rooms at Ashford Outdoors are also available
to guests interested in upgrading or investing in some of the
finest shotguns on the market. Guests from outside the EU
can avail of a tax free purchase.
Flying a hawk is an experience
of a lifetime!
Private one-hour Hawk Walk Sporting 25-clay shooting experience ‘Guinness Shooting Experience’
Ireland’s School of Falconry is the oldest – 25 shots – 75 shots
• €95 for one participant
established Falconry School in the country • €150 for two participants Fully supervised by an instructor, you will be provided The Guinness Shooting experience involves shooting
and offers you the chance to fly hawks • €195 for three participants with the necessary instruction and safety briefing. You approximately 75 shots over a wide variety of sporting
around the beautiful castle grounds and • €220 for four participants will shoot a variety of different targets, each representing clay targets, in addition to a comprehensive historical
woodlands during a one hour private a different challenge. This experience includes gun, element which details the game shooting of past years on
ammunition (25 clay targets), tuition and insurance. the Estate.
hawk walk. Private extended Hawk Walk
€75 per person with a supplement of €20 per box of 25 €125 per person; minimum of two people
(90 minutes) cartridges thereafter
Established in 1999 the Falconry School is home to the largest • €125 for one participant
and most diverse collection of Harris hawks in Ireland, all of • €200 for two participants
The Ardilaun Challenge – 75 shots
whom have been specially trained by the Falconry School • €240 for three participants
Private clay shooting lesson The Ardilaun Challenge is a 50-shot sporting clay
themselves. • €280 for four participants – 100 shots shooting competition. Whether you are counting on your
We provide tailored tuition designed to match your beginner’s luck or you are confident in your shooting
On arrival, you are greeted by your Falconry Instructor and individual ability and help you develop your own style. ability – then this is your chance to shine! The session
Further reductions apply for more participants and
introduced to your hawks, before setting off to fly your hawks. Our knowledgeable, experienced instructors draw on the begins with a masterclass in sporting clays led by one of
there is no cost for a small number of spectators who
As you fly the hawks, your falconer will explain all about the latest sports instruction techniques to suit every shot, our expert instructors. This will be followed by a scored
are accompanying participants.
hawks’ eyesight, their speed and agility and also about the whether your interest is in game or clays. 50-shot competition over five stands on our sporting
character and history of the individual hawks that you are €220 per person clays range.
Booking is essential for this activity.
flying. €150.00 per person, with a supplement of €20 per box of
For bookings and information please contact
25 cartridges thereafter
The Falconry School on T: +353 (0) 94 954 6820
As you walk through the beautiful woodlands, your hawks will E: info@falconry.ie
Booking is essential for this activity.
closely follow you, flying from tree to tree, before swooping
For bookings and information please contact
down to land back on your gloved fist... a moment you will Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
T: +353 (0) 94-9546507, E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
never forget!
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
OFF ROAD DRIVING Zipline Adventure IN THE FOREST
Join us for a memorable aerial adventure set in magnificent,
mature woodland on the Ashford Estate. This is a unique
opportunity to engage in an exhilarating experience
surrounded by natural beauty. Your journey will take you
through trees such as Beech, Oak, Monterey pines, Scots pine
and European fir trees. We have up to 20 different obstacles
and seven ziplines, split between three courses for an aerial
adventure to remember. Suitable for both adults and younger
adventurers alike.
Our Zipline Adventure Courses
The Flying Fox Course
There are five zip-lines throughout the course combined to
total 500 metres. It’s a magnificent way to hang out in the tree
tops come rain or shine!
Who is it for?
Adults and older children with a reach of at least 1.4 meters
(fingertips can reach this height).
Maximum weight – 19 stone (120 kg)
Tree Hoppers
Designed with younger adventurers in mind, here you will be Tree Climbing
traversing, hopping, balancing, climbing, zipping and tunneling Come and conquer the tallest tree climb in Ireland!
your way around the forest, with 20 obstacles and two zips.
‘Monty’ is over 110 years old, and standing at 50 metres or
Who is it for? 164 feet in height is one of the largest Monterey Pine trees
Recommended for children aged 5 to 12, though older here on the Ashford Estate. It is one of the many spectacular
children and adults are welcome. trees planted in the late 1800s by the Guinness family, who
Minimum age – five years lived in Ashford Castle.
Explore the spectacular Ashford Castle Minimum height – 1m
Estate whilst experiencing our thrilling Two-hour introductory experience Maximum weight – 19 stone (120 kg) Tree climbing is an enjoyable outdoor experience. There is
something wonderful about getting outdoors and into the
off-road experience in one of our Supervision – 5-9 years require a participating adult. Ratio 1:2
€425 for one or two drivers Supervision - 9 -12 years require a participating adult. Ratio 1:5 branches of something which is alive. Experience beautiful
legendary 4x4 vehicles. Challenge yourself surroundings and enjoy the views from the treetop. There
behind the wheel on Connemara’s famous are four different climbing routes to choose from, suitable
Four-hour half-day experience Duration
rugged landscape, from boggy hills to The course takes approximately 1 hour to 1.5 hours including for adults and children. You can go to the top or as high as
rock crawls and water crossings – all with €700 for one or two drivers a safety briefing and the session. It also depends on how you like. Enjoy the challenge; you’ll feel a great sense of
achievement afterwards. Before you start the course, you will
breath-taking views. speedy you are, how busy the course is and who you’ve got in
your group. be given a safety briefing by one of our experienced qualified
Full-day discover Connemara instructors and fitted in a secure harness safety system. A
Situated on the Ashford Estate and the nearby Deer Park experience Safety belay safety system keeps participants safely attached so they
of Deroura, we have two off-road courses that have been
Before you start the course, you’ll be given a safety briefing can focus on conquering the climb.
designed by Ireland’s leading off-road specialists. Each of our €1,000 for up to four people, including lunch
courses includes natural and purpose-built obstacles including by one of our qualified experienced instructors and fitted in
steep climbs, technical descents, water splashes and custom a secure harness safety system. A continuous belay safety
Before you Climb...
challenges to test your driving skills. However, this activity is
Two-hour teen driving experience system keeps participants safely attached so they can focus
Minimum age of four years; maximum weight of 19
not just about action and adventure. The picturesque setting on zipping and flying through the forest.
stone or 120kg
€425 for one or two drivers
ensures that this is an experience you will never forget.
€80 for 1 or 2 people. €80 for 1 or 2 people.
Booking is advised for this activity
We guarantee a warm welcome and our experienced and Additional participants €30 per person Additional participants €30 per person
For bookings and information please contact
qualified guides can tailor your experience from basic to
T: +353 (0) 94-9546507,
advanced levels of driving, or we can create a bespoke Booking is advised for this activity Booking is advised for this activity
E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
package to meet an individual or an organisation’s needs. For bookings and information please contact For bookings and information please contact Ashford
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
T: (+353) 094-9546507, Outdoors at
E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com T: +353 (0) 94-9546507
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
EQUESTRIAN
BIKE HIRE
Explore the Ashford Estate and surrounding village of
Cong on one of our fleet of bicycles, with its ancient
landscape including Neolithic Stone Circles and Cairns, an
ancient Abbey and a 3,000-acre forest with off-road paths
and relatively quiet roads. We have a range of hybrid,
mountain and road bikes suitable for adults and children.
Full day: €40 per adult; €30 per child
Half day: €25 per adult; €20 per child
Guided Tours
The majestic Ashford bike tour is an amazing opportunity Three-hour Connemara cycle tour: €110 per
to see Cong and its history, heritage and breath-taking person (minimum of two participants)
landscape. The tour caters for all levels of ability.
Cycle along the quiet leafy lanes that open into huge Custom road or mountain bike tours available
expanses of mountain and valley, travel along the river upon request.
On your private horse ride, your guide The Ashford equestrian centre offers a dedicated team of
bank and take in the breath-taking views of Ashford
experienced professionals providing high standards of horse
will take you through the beautiful and Lough Corrib. Booking is essential for this activity
riding for adults and children alike. The facilities include
wooded countryside on the Ashford indoor and outdoor riding arenas and 20 stables housing a
For bookings and information please contact
Estate, between the shores of Lough selection of horses, from our homebred Irish Draught horses
90-minute Ashford cycle tour: €55 per adult; €35 per T: (+353) 094-9546507, E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
child under 16. Minimum age eight years. (minimum of Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
Corrib and Lough Mask. and Connemara ponies to the loveable Irish cobs. Our team
two participants)
are here to facilitate your enjoyment and safety, as well as the
With horse-riding lessons, carriage rides and magnificent achievement of your riding ambitions. The Ashford Estate is
trail riding, the centre has an unrivalled range of equestrian the perfect place to explore and discover the beautiful Irish
experiences in a stunning location that are suitable for countryside on horseback.
complete beginners as well as experienced riders.
Prices:
ARCHERY
30-minute children pony ride:
€35 per child (minimum age of four years)
One-hour private horse ride:
€70 per adult; €60 per child under 16
Set in the magnificent woodland of
(maximum of six participants per group) the Ashford Castle Estate, the Archery
range provides a magical location to
Two-hour private horse ride: experience the ancient sport played by
€125 per adult; €95 per child under 16
Kings, Lords and Ladies for centuries.
(maximum of six participants per group)
Using a modern recurve bow, Archery encourages
Three-hour private horse ride:
concentration, poise, technique and determination,
€165 per person (minimum of two participants)
but does not require great strength. Suitable for all
the family as long as you can hold the bow. All of our Sporting Archery 90-minute Sporting Archery (moving
45-minute private riding lesson: and traditional targets)
sessions are tailored to individual participants, from
€80 per adult; €70 per child under 16
the complete novice through to the competent archer.
€150 for 1 or 2 people.
One-hour woodland carriage tour:
€80 for 1 or 2 people. Additional participants €30 per person
€140 (for up to four adults or two adults and three children).
Additional participants €30 per person.
Advanced bookings are essential.
Booking is advised for this activity
For bookings and information please contact
Possible weight restrictions
T: (+353) 094-9546507, E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
If any of your party weighs over 225lbs or 102kg please Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
contact us to discuss your equestrian activity to ensure we
have a suitable horse available.
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
ON THE LAKE CRUISING
Ashford Castle is located on the shores
of Lough Corrib, the largest, cleanest and The Island Cruise/Live Traditional
most scenic lake in the Republic of Ireland. Music (1st June - 30th September)
There will be detailed commentary throughout this
We invite you to join local brothers Patrick and David Luskin cruise and a resident musician will entertain the guests
on a voyage of discovery to enjoy the beauty of this wonderful along the way with music, stories and songs. The
lake. Corrib Cruises was founded in 1976 by Patrick and Luskin brothers have met some very interesting and
David’s father John and today the brothers, both of whom famous people over the years and are always keen
have a vast wealth of local knowledge, run the business. In to meet new people and to share their vast wealth of
2003, Patrick wrote a history book about the castle and the local knowledge with them.
lake entitled “A Voyage of Discovery.” A signed copy of the
book can be purchased on board. Departs: Ashford Castle Pier at 2.45pm (boarding from
2.30pm)
The Boat: Duration: two hours (including a 40 minute guided
The Isle of Inisfree is an 80 passenger, all-weather craft, tour of St Patrick’s site on Inchagoill island)
licensed by the Irish Department Of Transport. There is a full Cost: Adults €30, children five to 15 years €15,
bar service and toilet facilities on board. Enjoy the outdoor children five years or under are free. Guests are
upper deck and the lower enclosed deck which is centrally advised to pay directly at the boat with cash, Visa or
Kayaking Pedal and Paddle Tour heated during the winter months. All cruises depart Ashford MasterCard
Kayaking on the majestic Lough Corrib lets you see the This the perfect opportunity to explore the Ashford Estate Castle Pier, 100 yards from the front door of the castle. Note: It is advisable to wear flat walking shoes for
countryside in a way you never could otherwise. Kayaking by bike and water. The pedal and paddle tour caters for all your walk on the island.
combines fun, friends, family, adrenaline and nature. From a levels of experience and fitness. The tour begins with a cycle
gentle introduction to kayaking, to learning more advanced along the quiet leafy lanes that open onto huge expanses of
The History Cruise (365 days a year) Points of interest on this holy and famous island
skills, you will embark upon a very special journey on Lough mountain and valley. Travel along the river bank and take in include:
An informative scenic cruise through the myriad of
Corrib. With the hills and mountains rising from the edges breath-taking views of the Ashford Estate, then paddle out • A leisurely stroll along the ancient trail through 100
beautiful islands of Lough Corrib.
of the water you will be amazed by the beautiful scenery onto Lough Corrib to surrender to the magnificent peace and acres of native Irish woodland
as you travel on the lake to explore the islands, taking in tranquility of this beautiful location. Tours depart at 10am or • St Patrick’s Church, founded by St Patrick in 450 AD
Departs: Ashford Castle Pier at 11am (boarding from
spectacular views of Ashford Castle and Connemara. We have 2pm by prior booking. Three hours in duration. • The inscribed burial stone of St Patrick’s navigator/
10.30am)
an extensive fleet of sit-on top kayaks with both single and nephew, buried here in 470 AD
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
double options available. Whether you are an experienced €90 per person for a minimum of two people. €65 per child • The Church Of The Saints, built by the Augustinian
Cost: Adults €25, children five to 15 years €10,
paddler, or just looking to try something new, our qualified aged 16 and under. Minimum age eight years. monks of Cong in 1180 AD
children five years or under are free. Guests are
guides will ensure the experience is tailored to your needs. • The tomb of Archbishop Muirgeas O’Nioc, buried
advised to pay directly at the boat with cash, Visa or
MasterCard here in 1128 AD
€75 per person for a minimum of two people. €55 per child Booking is essential for this activity.
Note: Guests who take this cruise will be back in time
aged 16 and under. Minimum age eight years. For bookings and information please contact We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
to check out that morning.
T: (+353) 094-9546507
Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) on E: info@ashfordoutdoors.com
Points of interest along the way include: Advanced bookings required.
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
Ashford Bay • A visit to The Old Steamers Quay to view the local To book your tickets in advance, or for more
Explore and tour Ashford Bay on the majestic Lough Corrib by fleet of yachts and cruisers information please visit www.corribcruises.com
SUP. Take in the Ashford Estate, Lisloughrey Quay, stunning • Excellent views of Ashford Castle, the Connemara Contact: Patrick on T: +353 (0) 87 994 6380
landscapes and array of aquatic life. Stand up Paddle Boarding Mountains and the surrounding 365 islands or David on +353 (0) 87 283 0799
or SUP originated in Hawaii as an off shoot to surfing and • Views of Lord Ardilaun’s Obelisk and the 3,000 year E: info@corribcruises.com
Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions apply
is ideal in calm, light wind conditions. Ashford Bay and old pagan burial mounds
Lough Corrib, with its sheltered inlets, provides a unique • At the end we stop in front of the castle to give a
environment to explore and enjoy this magnificent area. detailed history and photo shoot
What to bring
Please bring a swim suit, plus a good sense of adventure! We
will supply all safety equipment and wetsuits, footwear etc.
€75 per person for a minimum of two people. €55 per child
aged 16 and under (minimum age eight and comfortable in
water.)
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
CHAUFFEUR TOURS MRS TEA’S
Mrs Tea’s Boutique & Bakery, Ashford
Castle’s exclusive boutique shop, is just a The range of sports clothing and equipment is perfect for the
abundance of estate activities, and Irish knitwear and blankets
short stroll from the castle.
are as stylish as they are cosy.
Browse a wonderful range of gifts from local artisan suppliers;
Purchase in store or view a selection of items to buy online
enjoy freshly baked treats on site and purchase luxury Irish
at our online store: shop.ashfordcastle.com.
products from brands including Avoca, Newbridge Silverware,
E: mrsteasboutique@ashfordcastle.com
Tipperary Crystal, Foxford, Voya.
Ashford Castle’s own Fáilte Ireland National tour guide is delighted to offer our private
chauffeur driven tours in luxury SUV vehicles.
Tailor made tours are available for both full and half day In car facilities include:
excursions. Visit Connemara National Park, featuring 2,957 • WiFi
hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and forests, or • Air conditioning
Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens, one of Ireland’s • Heated seats
best loved and most iconic tourist attractions and home to
the Benedictine nuns since 1920. The lunar landscape of the Prices are tailored for each requirement and number of people, please
contact the hotel for further information and pricing
Burren and breath-taking heights of the Cliffs of Moher will
leave you in no doubt as to the dramatic splendour of the West
Coast of Ireland and The Wild Atlantic Way.
The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland The Lodge at Ashford Castle • Cong • County Mayo • Ireland
GOLF
This beautiful nine-hole, 2996-yard,
par-35 parkland course provides the
perfect environment for golfers of all
ages to hone their skills.
The course was designed by the renowned Irish
golf architect Eddie Hackett and was created with
imaginative integration of natural features and
hazards, ensuring a marvellous contribution to the
tough par 3’s, exciting par 4’s and formidable par 5.
What better way to complement a stay at the five star
Ashford Castle.
Belfast
Green fees are complimentary to hotel residents.
Sligo
• Club hire (includes golf balls, tees, pull trolley): €50
per person
Knock
• Golf buggy hire: €50
• Shoe hire: €10
• Pull trolley: €5
THE LODGE
Dublin
• Green fees: €60
Galway
Prices apply to residents of the Castle and The Lodge.
Shannon
TENNIS
Killarney
Cork
We offer guests two
newly-resurfaced all-
weather courts for
complimentary play.
The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Cong, County Mayo, Ireland.
Whether you’re a regular player or
T: +353 (0) 94 954 5400 | E: reception@thelodgeac.com | USA Call: 1 800 346 7007
have never held a racket in your life, Private coaching tuition is available, advanced
you’re sure to enjoy the experience in the magnificent reservations required. www.thelodgeac.com
setting of the Ashford Estate. Please book at Reception,
where rackets and balls are available for hire.
• P lease note - all of the above mentioned activities • C hildren must be accompanied and supervised by • S afety information for ramblers - please be aware,
are provided and organised by independent com- a responsible adult at all times. the terrain is uneven.
panies and booked at your own risk.
•N
o diving, paddling or swimming is permitted in • A ll guests must be suitably attired and activities
• S afety information - there are uneven footpaths, the lake, river or foudations at any time. Please are undertaken at your own risk.
low walls, and sharp inclines and declines around note, the waters in the river and lake are deep and
the garden and grounds. hazardous.
RED CA RN ATI ON .COM
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