Travel Log

Nomadic ventures specialises in trekking, walking and climbing holidays and expeditions worldwide

Nomadic ventures specialises in trekking, walking and climbing holidays and expeditions worldwide. This year, trips planned include backpacking and island-hopping in Scotland, alpine walking for all in Valle D'Aosta, and Gran Paradiso in Italy. In October, the Atlas Mountains of Morocco are the venue for a memorable trek. Nomadic Ventures's trips are led by qualified guides, and it also organises trips for groups. Details from Nomadic Ventures, Butler's Lane, Kiltycahill, Sligo, (071) 46012, info@nomadicventures.com.

A NEW website, Resireland, lists 3,500 accommodation providers for direct bookings. Bord Failte and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board operate one of the most advanced information and reservation systems. You'll find a wide variety of accommodation at www.ireland.travel.ie.

Travelling with your car? The ferry companies have some great value. SuperSeaCat and Mersey Tourism have joined forces to promote the Merseyside region. There is a 15 per cent discount on sailings from Dublin to Liverpool, and 10 per cent off National Express Coach tickets departing from any destination in the UK, 20 per cent off the Beatles Magical Mystery Tours, 20 per cent off the Beatles Story museum. Details from 1800 551743, www.seacat.co.uk.

Irish Ferries is promoting three cars for the price of two, aimed at those travelling to Britain to attend sports fixtures, exhibitions, weddings and events on both the Dublin and Rosslare routes. Also from Irish Ferries is "Summer is Brest 2000" - the event takes place from July 13th to 17th and is considered one of the great maritime festivals.

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Today Brittany Ferries begins its 22nd summer sailing season from Cork, which will run until September 30th. Cork-Roscoff is the shortest and fastest route to France - only a 14-hour crossing. Off-season value begins with apartment and holiday home rentals from £193 a week. Information from your local ITAA travel agent or (021) 277 801.

Dublin's newest hotel, Stephen's Green Hotel, has one of the city's best locations. Right at the corner of the Green. On returning to your room each evening, having sampled the great nightlife in the capital, you will find your bed turned down and a bedtime story on your pillow. Weekend specials cost £145 per person sharing for two nights' bed and breakfast. Reservations, (01) 607 3900.

Last Week - Helsinki £299 - the telephone number for Groupworld Travel should have been (01) 667 3113

Joan Scales can be contacted at jscales@irish-times.ie