Go Outdoors:The first Dunmore East Walking Festival will take place on the weekend of May 21st.
There will be seven gentle guided walks of different lengths, to suit all ages, including a family-friendly walk. In some instances a bus will be provided. The fee for each walk is €10 – although the fee for the family-friendly walk has yet to be decided. For more information, including on accommodation, see dunmorewalks.com or text 086-3254364.
May in Co ClareBurren Life Balance is offering weekend packages in May for €190pps. Beginning on Friday evening, a package includes two nights' bed and breakfast, one evening meal, packed lunch, two guided walks and a farewell lunch on Sunday. Participants will be based at Burren Atedaun, a working farm within walking distance of Corofin. Call 065-682 7749, e-mail info@burrenlifebalance.com or see burrenlifebalance.com.
Bats and birdsSee, hear and learn about bats on Thursday, May 13th at 9.15pm at the education centre at Knocksink Wood Nature Reserve, in Enniskerry, Co Wicklow. Booking is not required, but bring along insect repellent and a torch. Call 01-2866609 (weekdays).
Birdsong walkWicklow Mountains National Park and BirdWatch Ireland are marking the start of National Biodiversity Week with a guided walk. It begins at the information office at Glendalough's Upper Lake at 5am on Sunday, May 16th. Booking is not necessary. Call 0404-45425 or see wicklow mountainsnationalpark.ie.