Mid-term break is the perfect time to slow things down, get outdoors and enjoy quality family time, and Cavan is made for it! With forest parks, lakeside walks, playgrounds and family-friendly accommodation right across the county, there’s potential for a fantastic family break.

We’ve put together a 3-day, flexible mid-term itinerary, ideal for families with young children, that showcases places that are open year-round and easy to enjoy at your own pace.

Day 1

Check into your family-friendly accommodation

Cavan offers a wide choice of hotels, self-catering and glamping, perfect for families who want space, comfort and easy access to outdoor activities.

If you’re staying close to Killeshandra or the lakelands, consider places like CABU by the Lakes, Lakeside Cottages or Bernard’s Log Cabins. For families who prefer a hotel base with dining on site, Cavan Crystal Hotel, Hotel Kilmore, Errigal Country House Hotel and Slieve Russell Hotel are all popular family-friendly options.

You can explore all options here:

• Family-friendly hotels
• Self-catering & glamping

Afternoon:

Once you’ve settled in, keep day one simple.

Killykeen Forest Park is ideal for families, with flat walking and cycling trails, picnic benches, lakeside views and space for children to roam safely. The Killykeen Way greenway is suitable for bikes, buggies and balance bikes.

If you’re closer to Cavan Town, Con Smith Park offers a modern playground, accessible play equipment, walking paths and outdoor gym facilities.

Both options are free, open year-round and perfect for easing into the break.

Evening:

Many family-friendly hotels offer relaxed dining, while towns like Cavan, Killeshandra and Virginia have cafés and takeaways within walking distance of accommodation. Keep the evening low-key and recharge for a full day tomorrow.

Day 2

Morning:

Start the day at Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff, one of the county’s top family attractions.

Highlights include:

• Interactive exhibitions
• The WW1 Trench Experience
• Outdoor Peace Garden
• Large playground
• Café and picnic areas.

It’s educational without feeling like school, and the outdoor space means children can burn off energy afterwards.

More info on Cavan County Museum here!

Lunch:

Stay on-site for a picnic if the weather allows, or stop in Ballyjamesduff town for lunch before heading on.

Afternoon:

Choose a forest walk that suits your family’s energy levels:

• Castle Lake Walk, Bailieborough – an easy 3km or longer 7km option, flat and scenic
• Dun an Rí Forest Park, Kingscourt – sculpture trail, riverside paths and picnic benches
• Deerpark Forest, Virginia – lakeshore views and gentle trails

Forest parks are ideal mid-term options as they’re open daily and don’t rely on seasonal services.

Evening:

If you’re staying near Cavan Town, Cavan Leisure Centre offers family swimming and slides, while Cavan Cinema is a cosy evening option if the weather turns.

Day 3

Morning:

Keep the final day relaxed with something light and magical for younger children.

• Erica’s Fairy Forest, Cootehill – a short walk filled with fairy doors and imagination
• Turbet Island Walk, Belturbet – a 1km riverside trail with picnic benches and open space
• Cavan Burren Park – short trails through ancient landscapes, free entry and great views

Cavan Burren Park is particularly good for mid-term, with multiple trail lengths and space to explore without crowds.

More info here.

Lunch & head home:

Finish with lunch in a local café or one last picnic before heading home refreshed, having enjoyed a break that’s active, affordable and easy to manage as a family.

Why Cavan Works So Well for Mid-Term

• Forest parks and walking trails are open year-round.
• Many activities are free or low-cost.
• Accommodation is spacious and family-focused.
• Everything is close together, reducing travel stress.
• Nature, history and play are built into the landscape.

Whether you choose lakeside glamping, a cosy self-catering cottage or a family-friendly hotel, Cavan makes mid-term breaks simple, flexible and memorable.

For more family inspiration, visit our family fun section!

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