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Ireland’s Blueways are the travel equivalent of zen meditation. Here, immersed in nature, the frenetic pace of daily life is subsumed in a landscape of polished waters, swaying reeds and velvety green pastureland.

Getting away from it all takes on a new meaning here, as you head off on gorgeous trails and try outdoor activities both on and alongside some of Ireland’s most idyllic lakes, canals and rivers. And whether you want to explore on foot, by bike or on the water, you’ll find the Blueways cast an alluring spell that lingers long after you leave.

The Shannon-Erne Blueway is the very essence of tranquillity. Originally built as a working waterway in the 19th century, it’s now an off-the-beaten-track destination where you can walk alongside glossy canals fringed with greenery. Gentle trails, easy cycling and reflective waters define the 70km of river, lakes and canals from pretty little Leitrim village to Belturbet in County Cavan.

The surrounding area here is also super-rewarding. Kayak out to the majestic 13th century Clough Oughter Castle set in the glassy surrounds of Lough Oughter, explore nearby Crom Castle with a wealth of walking trails, or visit the nearby town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, with its dramatic castle and great food scene set beside Lough Erne.

Activity highlights: Opt for a quiet stroll on the Ballinamore Looped Walking trail along towpaths and quiet country roads. The route is roughly 4.5km and takes about 90 minutes to complete. Bike-wise, a good option is the 10km self-guided cycle tour along the Shannon-Erne Blueway, from Leitrim Village to Kilclare.

Bikes can be hired from Electric Bike Trails, and you can stop off for a drink and a bite at the Sheemore Inn in Kilclare. And if you’re interested in taking to the water, jump into a Canadian canoe and island-hop the length of Lough Gill with Adventure Gently.

Where to eat: Grab a spot beside the fire in the wonderful traditional-style grocery pub of Smyths Siopa Ol in Ballinamore for a drink or some hearty comfort food. For something a little fancier, make a date with the Olde Post Inn in the quiet hamlet of Cloverhill.

Sightseeing tip: A short drive from the Shannon-Erne Blueway, you’ll find the incredible Marble Arch Caves, which are among the best show caves in Europe.

Weaving its way through the idyllic, emerald-toned county of Leitrim and into counties Longford and Roscommon, the Shannon Blueway follows the River Shannon (the longest river in Ireland) through charming towns and villages, past crumbling castles and along riverbanks flush with wildlife.

The lively town of Carrick-on-Shannon is a great place to base yourself to enjoy the best of this Blueway with its great pubs and restaurants and buzzing boating holiday scene. Don’t miss the great local attractions, too, from the wild and wonderful Lough Key Forest Park to the 12th century Boyle Abbey, both about a 30-minute drive from Carrick.

Activity highlights: There are great walk alongside the water all along the route and a good one for a decent hike is from Battlebridge to Drumleague, a length of about 10km. For a short, super-scenic foray into nature, try the Acres Lake Boardwalk, a beautiful floating boardwalk that runs for 600m across Acres Lake. Water-wise, the Drumshamazon experience with Leitrim Surf Company is a brilliant way to experience the lush beauty of this part of the island on a two-hour paddleboarding excursion through Amazonian-type scenery.

Where to eat: Carrick-on-Shannon is awash with excellent places to eat, but a firm favourite in town is The Oarsman, an award-winning bar and restaurant dating back to 1782.

Sightseeing tip: Head into the heart of darkness at the Arigna Mining Experience. The guided tour is led by ex-miners and is a wonderful insight into the working conditions of a mine.