Family fun days:During July and August, parents are invited to bring their children (four to 12 years) to a mixed afternoon of nature-based activities at Knocksink Wood Education Centre, Enniskerry (Tuesdays) and Glendalough Education Centre (Thursdays).
Each week will feature a different theme and an adult must stay with the children – and be prepared to help! Booking is essential and is from 9am a week prior to each fun day. Phone 0404-45656 or see wicklowmountain snationalpark.ie.
Mountain bike trails
An 8km mountain bike trail has been launched at Blessingbourne Estate near Fivemiletown, Co Tyrone. There is a selection of trails to challenge all abilities from family fun to the more serious mountain bikers. You can warm up on the pump track at the head of the trail before you head off to explore the 550-acre country estate. The trail meanders through woodlands, skirts the edge of a private lake and nature preserve, and offers views over the scenic Clogher Valley. Trails are free to ride with car- parking costing €4.50 (£4) per car. Phone Blessingbourne estate on 00-44-28-8952-1188 or e-mail info@blessingbourne.com for information on the trails and luxury self-catering accommodation.
Oxfam Trailtrekker
Now is the time to start preparing for the Oxfam Trailtrekker Donard Park to Carlingford Challenge on September 10th/11th. To take part you will need a team of four with a support crew of one or two. The challenge over 50km or 100km, is open to anybody who can raise the minimum €2,000 or £2,000 in sponsorship. Teams of all levels of experience are welcome to take part. For more details call 01-6350406 or 028-90895972 (Belfast); text TREK to 51500; e-mail: trailtrekker@oxfamireland.org or oxfamireland.org/trek.