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# the sun's out
Want to get active this weekend? Here are some top hiking and biking trails
Unleash your inner hiker.
MOST PEOPLE are lucky enough to have a long weekend off work for Easter, so we’ve rounded up a few suggestions for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
Coillte has mapped out forest parks and recreational sites all the family can enjoy in locations across the country.
The organisation runs 12 forest parks – covering Donegal, Cavan, Monaghan, Roscommon, Galway, Kildare, Wicklow, Limerick and Cork.
Coillte also has five flagship mountain bike trail centres:
- Ballinastloe, Co Wicklow
- Ballyhoura, Co Limerick
- Derroura and Portumna Forest Park, both in Co Galway
- Ticknock Mountain Bike Trails, Co Dublin
Daithi de Forge, Recreation Manager at Coillte said there is something out there for everyone “whether you’re a gentle rambler, a seasoned hiker, or a mountain biker”.
So this Easter we are encouraging the public to cast away the cobwebs, to visit their local forest and put that spring in their step.
About 18 million people visit Coillte forests every year.
Pilgrim Paths
Last Easter Saturday 1,800 people took part in National Pilgrim Paths Day, walking or cycling 11 medieval routes throughout Ireland.
The second annual event will take place tomorrow – with 10 counties getting involved.
Some 13 walks are planned over the weekend – most are one-day events but some will take place on Saturday and Sunday.
John O’Dwyer, chairman of Pilgrim Paths Ireland, said the “support” the organisation received last year was “overwhelming”.
“Over 1,800 people walked or cycled the pathways of Ireland’s ancient pilgrim paths.
This year we invite people to once again escape from the daily treadmill of living and take some time out to reflect on life while experiencing the joy of exploring the hidden places of peace and beauty.
For more information, check out PilgrimPath.ie.
(This article was originally posted last night. We’re updating it this morning, in the hope that you’re waking up to sunny skies, and planning a day out.)
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