The hills at nightWhy not try something different when it comes to hillwalking? Extreme Ireland has organised Full Moon Walks in the Wicklow hills. These three- to four-hour guided walks offer an opportunity to experience the mountains during the full moon. They take in some of the best viewing points in Wicklow and should give you an insight into what goes on with the local wildlife at night.
Contact Keith at
Extreme Ireland on 086-4076985, www.extremeireland.ie.
National Tree WeekHave you ever wondered why people say "touch wood" to ward off bad luck? Our Celtic ancestors touched trees as they believed it warded off evil spirits. They worshipped trees, and some of their sacred groves survive at Holy Well sites around the country. The earliest form of writing in Ireland was Ogham, a tree alphabet, which can be found carved on standing stones (below). This comprised 20 letters, each of which corresponded to one of our native species. This year the Tree Council of Ireland is celebrating 25 years of National Tree Week with the theme of "our trees, our culture". Events will take place from March 1st to 7th. Find out more at www.tree council.ie.
Walking through historyFor a break with a difference, see www. walkingthroughhistory.com. The Waterford- based company behind the website brings you on organised tours over a week. Only two or three sites are visited in a day, so that you can absorb their history and heritage in a relaxed frame of mind. The tours are run by highly qualified guides and are designed to be in small, intimate groups (10 to 12 people), so that everyone will get a satisfactory amount of attention and a chance to ask questions. See the website or call 051-820030.