FRANCIS BRADLEY looks at forthcoming outdoor events
Whale of a timeDo you want to find out more about the 24 species of cetaceans – whales, dolphins (below) and porpoises – that live in Irish waters? The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is holding the first of its whale-watching courses on Clear Island, off Baltimore in Co Cork, from June 5th to 7th. The weekend will be a mix of cliff- and boat-based watches, so bring sunscreen, insect repellent, waterproofs, binoculars and the like. See www.iwdg.ie, e-mail padraig.whooley@ iwdg.ie or call 023-8838761.
Trek in TuscanyThe National Children's Hospital's annual fundraising walk takes place in Tuscany, Italy, from September 21st to 27th. The week-long trek includes Siena, Florence (below) and Rome, along with numerous Tuscan villages and the famous wine-producing regions of Chianti and Montepulciano. Each walker is asked to raise €3,500, with proceeds aiding the Tallaght-based hospital. Call 01-4142375 or e-mail trek@thenational childrenshospital.ie.
Glen of AherlowGlen of Aherlow Walking Festival takes place next weekend, over the bank holiday. Events begin at the Glen Hotel on Friday at 9pm, with local produce complementing an evening of Irish music and dance. There will be a wide choice of walks on Saturday and Sunday, to suit all levels of walkers. (To whet your appetite read John G O'Dwyer's on page 6, which covers similar ground to one of the festival walks.) On Sunday there will be a nature trail family walk (unsuitable for buggies) led by local wildlife and flora experts. Call Helen Morrissey at Glen of Aherlow Fáilte Society (www.aherlow.com) on 062-56331 or 086-8314443.