Paddling near Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Portlaoise sits at the heart of County Laois in Ireland's Midlands, within easy reach of some of the country's most paddled inland waterways. The River Barrow — one of Ireland's great canoe trails — flows roughly 11 km away, while the Suir, Slaney, and the Shannon system are all within striking distance. Laois Kayak and Canoe Club, based at the Old Bridge in Durrow, is the focal point of the local paddling scene, running sessions for all abilities from beginners to experienced whitewater paddlers.