Co Antrim
Get active Dozens of activities will be represented at the Belfast Adventure Sports Show, January 16th-18th, with most stands offering special bargains, family discounts and competitions. The show itself, at the King’s Hall, Belfast, will have a range of activities and you can bring up to four children under 12 years free of charge. Admission for adults is £5, OAPs £4 and students £3.
Sligo/Donegal
Vroom vroom Rally Ireland will be hosting the opening round of the 2009 FIA World Rally Championship on Thursday, January 29th to Sunday, February 1st, replacing the traditional Monte Carlo rally. The event travels through eight counties, north and south of the Border, and will conclude with a Super Special Stage in Donegal town. Rally HQ will be in the Clarion Hotel, Sligo, with the Service Park in the Institute of Technology. www.rallyireland.org.
Wales
Adrenalin rush It’s a good time to take advantage of the two-for-one offers on adventure activities in north Wales. White- water rafting, rock climbing, high ropes and 4x4 driving are on offer, starting at £35 (less than €35, for two people).
Adventure North Wales is offering deals on activities, with or without accommodation, this month and next. White-water rafting with a high ropes adventure course and one night BB costs £88.50pp. Rock climbing, mountain biking and one night’s BB is £95pp, and 4x4 off-road driving, archery and one night’s BB is £90pp. www.adventure-northwales.com, 00-44-845- 3654265. Travelling with Irish Ferries, you can get from Dublin city to Holyhead. There are two crossings per day during January/February. A standard car return is €215. Alternatively, fly to Liverpool or Manchester with Ryanair, with fares from 50c plus taxes each way in January.
Accommodation is £88.50 for a weekend break with Plas Coch (Bala) or Hand Hotel (Llangollen).