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Hiking is always a fun adventure, but theres no denying that it can be physically demanding and can leave our bodies feeling tender and sore afterwards. While its good for both our physical and mental health ...

Review: Cikada City Electric Hybrid e-bike If youre a keen cyclist with a lightweight bike you take for spins on the weekend, you might notThe post Review: Cikada City Electric Hybrid Bike appeared first on the girl outdoors.

Combining the warmth of down with the wet weather performance of syntheticinsulation, we try out two new jackets that use Primalofts latest loose fill technologiesBeing based in one of the wettest parts of the UK on the west coast of Scotland, Team Trek & Mountain appreciates gear that works well in damp conditions, so we were excited to test out two new jackets from Rab and Adidas that are built around the latest, cutting-edge PrimaLoft loose fill synthetic insulation.The performance of these jackets Rabs Cirrus Ultra Insulated Hooded Jacket (230) and the Adidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated Hooded Jacket (170) promised to be ideal for the kind of weather we enjoy/endure in Argyll during the winter months both wet and cold at the same time so we headed out into our local hills in a range of weather conditions to put them through their paces.Two different types of PrimaLoft synthetic insulation, but both are warm and damp-resistantRab Cirrus Ultra Insulated Hooded Jacket with PrimaLoft ThermoPlume+The Cirrus Ultra looks every inch the midweight down jacket except it isnt! Instead of down inside its chunky baffles it has PrimaLoft ThermoPlume+, the second generation synthetic insulation that uses soft feather-like plumes of vegan-friendly fibre to mimic the lightweight warmth, softness and compressibility of natural down. This + version achieves the equivalent of 650-fillpower, and its improved loft over the original PrimaLoft ThermoPlume is achieved by the use of little balls of synthetic fibres that keep the plumes apart and also help stop the insulation from migrating. In practice, this makes the Cirrus Ultra a superbly lightweight jacket that compresses really well in your pack and will keep you warm in all weathers, whether its raining, snowing or just bitterly cold.As well as PrimaLoft ThermoPlume+ the Cirrus Ultra also uses standard sheet insulation in high-wear areas such as the rear scooped hem and across the back of the shoulders, and overall the jacket is very easy to use and look after, with washing and drying much easier than with down products. We used the Cirrus Ultra in all weathers, from cold and dry, to cold and wet, to a full blizzard (see our Instagram Reel!) and it coped with all that was thrown at it. As well as its light weight and impressive packsize, we particularly liked the jackets warm, helmet-compatible hood, its generous handwarmer and chest pockets, and the overall comfort afforded by its Pertex outer and lining complete with soft beardguard at the chin!The distinctive baffle patterns of the Adidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated JacketAdidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated Hooded Jacket with PrimaLoft RISEThe Xperior is a very different beast to the Rab, but no less effective for its intended uses. Using a distinctive baffle pattern that helps to eliminate cold spots, the Xperior uses the latestPrimaLoft RISE insulation which is another loose fill made from 100% post-consumer materials (i.e. used plastic drink bottles). PrimaLoft RISE is ideal for packing into the small baffles on the Xperior, and this gives a totally different feel to the wide baffles and lofty insulation in the Rab Cirrus Ultra. Instead you get a quite thin but warm layer that could be used as a warm midlayer with a rainshell over the top, or just as an outer itself, as conditions dictate.In use we found this a really versatile jacket and, again, ideal for the damp and cool conditions that we hike in on the west coast of Scotland. As well as the PrimaLoft RISE insulation in the body and arms of the jacket, sheet insulation is used at the sides and hood, and this enhances movement and comfort in these areas. Theres two handwarmer pockets, plus an internal mesh stash pocket and zipped pocket ideal for your phone. A nice feature is the stretchy built-in gaiter which prevents drafts getting in around the neck.Walking in Argyll in winter can be both cold and dampTake-awaysSo what have we learned while testing these two products? Well, firstly that the latest PrimaLoft synthetic insulation is getting tantalising close to the performance of high quality down insulation, while also providing an ethical (no birds involved) and sustainable (use of recycled materials) alternative. And then just the ease of ownership not being worried if the weathers wet, and stress-free cleaning and drying of the garments, for long-lasting performance. Its a win-win situation as far as were concerned!More info at: www.PrimaLoft.com

Litter is more than just an eyesoreits a danger to animals, the environment, and our communities. Each year, the RSPCA rescues many animals that have been injured or trapped by discarded rubbish ...

Overview: Distance: 3.6kmElevation gain: 23mFormat: Looped TrailTime: 30 - 90 minutesStart / End / Parking:There is space for 11 cars at the start / end point of the trail, here. Trail difficulty: EasyThis trail is very accessible - underfoot it is either a well maintained gravel path, or old laneways. Read about trail grading in Ireland here.Trail quality: 4/5Very well maintained. With some more time and general weathering the route will feel more natural and part of its surroundings. Views: 5/5Possibly my favourite views of Sligo Bay.Buggy/Wheelchair friendly: No - but almost. There is one kissing gate. Dogs allowed: On a lead When did I walk this route: March 2025External resources: SligoWalks info page for Raghly Loop TrailSport Ireland info pageMy route from this walk on Strava View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize The Raghly Loop is a 3km walk around a tiny headland that juts out into the top of Sligo Bay.This walk is small but mighty, providing stunning views of the coastline and many of Sligos most iconic landmarks.Starting from the roadside car park, theres space for 11 cars beside the infoboard. Along the trail youll find several info boards explaining the history, wildlife, and distinctive geographical features youll pass.The only unusual wildlife I saw that evening were Barnacle Geese. On my way to the trail I passed Ballygilgan (Lissadell) Nature Reserve, which is also known as The Goose Field! According to the NPWS, about 3000 Barnacle Geese arrive in October to spend the winter in North Sligo The geese breed in Greenland in the summer and spend the winter in Ireland. They graze in Lissadell Maugherow area every winter until April, spending every night on the island of Inishmurray. As I drove past I indeed saw what looked like a few thousand geese grazing, and as I reached the end of my walk, I saw many flying out to one of the further islands. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This trail is very accessible - underfoot it is either a well maintained gravel path, or old laneways. The way-marking for the trail is a red arrow on a black backdrop, although most of the time the trail path is so well built that its hard to get lost. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize My favourite place on this walk was the Signal Post and the ruins of the Pilot Lookout. Signal Posts were used by the coastguard to communicate with passing ships - they communicated across the waters by raising different coloured flags and placing them at different heights along the flagpole.The sea pilots worked similarly, sending up flares to message passing ships. However their job was to row out and guide ships through the more treacherous parts of Sligo Bay. The last sea pilot of Raghly was John Joe Herity, and he retired in 1987. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Reaching the bottom of the lane, you turn right, passing the ruins of the old coastguard station. Soon after that, youll arrive to the harbour. Built in the early 1800s, this harbour soon became one of the most important harbours between Derry and Galway, as well as being a thriving fishing port. These days the small fishing fleet primarily focuses on lobster and crab pots, which were stacked all around. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize As I made my way back along the final lane to the carpark, I watched the moon rise over Glencar valley. The view down it from this angle is unique, and I spent some time guessing whether I could truly see the cliffs around the Devils Chimney waterfall. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize

Want to tour Europe in a motorhome or campervan? Feeling a little overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Here's everything you need, from what kit to pack, what paperwork you need to carry, how to prepare your van, European road trip itinerary ideas and tips for life on the road. Don't forget to grab your free 'Europe in a motorhome checklist' below.The post How to tour Europe in a Motorhome-the ULTIMATE guide appeared first on Wandering Bird Motorhome Travel Blog.

The opening of The Sound of Music has Maria twirling across the mountains of Austria singing to her heart's content. This may have made for a grand opening scene, but there's a good reason to boom out a song on a mountain hike

Ready to take your camping knowledge to the next level? Whether youre wild camping in the Irish countryside or glamping by the sea, these interesting camping facts reveal how much more there is to this beloved pastime.From ancient military camps to modern campervan kitchens, well explore what makes camping a tradition and an adventure like no other.1. Camping Then and Now: A Story of Two Very Different WorldsNot All Camping Is the SameFirst, lets set one thing straight: theres a huge difference between camping for fun and camping for survival or war.Military encampments, Viking raids, and medieval war camps were about survival, strategy, and hardship.Recreational camping what most of us enjoy today is about voluntarily reconnecting with nature, finding peace, and slowing down.From Ancient Tents to Victorian LeisureWhile soldiers, nomads, and explorers have been camping for millennia, modern camping as a leisure activity began in Victorian England.In 1901, Thomas Hiram Holding founded the worlds first camping club, the Association of Cycle Campers, and his Campers Handbook (1908) helped turn camping into something ordinary people could enjoy.Victorians, longing for nature amidst rising industrialisation, started camping as a way to escape modern life the same spirit that fuels cottagecore today.Cottagecore and Camping: A Shared Dream of SimplicityBoth cottagecore and camping romanticise nature and a simpler way of living.Tents, like cottages, became tiny, portable homes where people could reconnect with nature but by choice, not necessity.In many ways, modern camping merges the aesthetic appeal of cottagecore with its focus on simplicity and nature and the social capital of documenting beautiful outdoor experiences on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, proving that comfort and style can thrive even in the wild.Important: Unlike military or survival camping, recreational camping is about choosing to create a cosy home in the wild not being forced to live outdoors.2. Interesting Camping Facts from Around the World (Including Ireland!)The First Camping Club Was Made for Cyclists!Founded in 1901 by Thomas Hiram Holding, the Association of Cycle Campers brought together adventurers who strapped tents to their bikes for epic outdoor trips.Camping Goes GlobalBy the early 1900s, Boy Scouts and Girl Guides made camping part of growing up for millions.After WWII, motorhomes and campervans made camping easier and much more comfortable leading to todays thriving campervan culture.Irelands Camping Heritage: From Military Camps to Modern GetawaysIrelands long tradition of camping goes back to Viking encampments and medieval armies, but today, youre more likely to see campervans by the coast or tents in national parks.Whether hiking Kerrys wild trails or hiring a campervan for a road trip, youre joining a tradition thats evolved from necessity to joy.3. Why Camping in Ireland is UniqueIreland is built for campers. Heres why:The Weather is Milder Than You Think: Thanks to the North Atlantic Drift, winters are warmer and summers cooler than mainland Europe. So while you will want rain gear (this is Ireland!), extreme temperatures are rare. Coastal areas, where many campsites are located, also avoid heavy frost.Long Summer Days: In July, you can enjoy up to 19 hours of daylight perfect for long hikes and late dinners by the campfire.Rain is a Given: Yes, April is the cruelest (and dryest) month, but rain can happen anytime so pack those waterproofs and a sense of humour!The Emerald Isle: All that rain means lush, green landscapes everywhere. Youll camp among rolling hills, misty lakes, wind-swept beaches, and forests. The weather in Ireland truly is like nowhere else.4. Ireland is a Camping Nation (Even if They Dont Say It Aloud)Tourism makes up 20.4% of Irelands GDP thats huge!Over 6.3 million visitors in 2023, and a good chunk of them are nature lovers who camp, hike, and explore.Campervans are one of the best ways to see Ireland, since many top spots (like the Ring of Kerry or Connemara) are far from city hotels.With hundreds of campsites from coastal havens to woodland retreats Ireland has a camping culture all its own.Bonus fact: Even if youve never camped before, Ireland is one of the easiest places to try it with fully equipped campsites, friendly locals, and pubs within reach (yes, you can hike all day and still enjoy a pint at night).5. Budget-Friendly and Eco-FriendlyAverage visitor spending in Ireland is 1,171 for an 8-day trip but if youre camping, you can cut accommodation costs massively.Coffee averages 2.80, so youll want that campervan kettle for morning brews!Camping is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel less energy use, smaller footprint, and a closer connection to nature.6. Top Festivals & Food: Plan Your Camping Trip Around TheseIreland isnt just about the views its also about culture, music, and food. Imagine camping near a festival site rolling into a music event or food fair and sleeping under the stars.Here are some top events worth timing your trip for:Cork Jazz Festival jazz in the streets and pubs, paired with camper-friendly sites nearby.Puck Fair (Kerry) one of Irelands oldest festivals (and yes, they crown a goat).Galway Oyster Festival for the seafood lovers.Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival (Clare) yes, that famous one for finding love (or just good craic).Food campers will love: Irish stew, boxty, soda bread, and if youre brave black pudding! For more information about festivals in Ireland, check out our article.7. Packing Smart: Fun Facts and Practical Tips to Stay Ready on the RoadSure, youll need clothes and a toothbrush, but did you know:A carbon monoxide detector is essential when cooking indoors even in a modern campervan.Portable speakers and board games are the secret to rainy nights that would otherwise get boring fast.First aid kits arent just for major accidents think insect bites, sunburn, and cooking mishaps.Packing for a camping trip properly is pretty much 90% of the work you need to do. After all, its just you against the world once youre out there! Deciding which pieces of your own surroundings to ditch and which ones to bring with you makes all the difference.Pro tip: Renting a fully equipped campervan means a lot of this comes built-in but double-check your packing list!8. Cooking in a Campervan: Not Just Beans on ToastForget soggy sandwiches! Modern campervans have real kitchens, and cooking on the road can be a highlight of your trip.What Campervan Kitchens Can Really DoFull kitchen setups with stoves, fridges, and cookware.Stock up on local Irish produce from markets think cheese, bread, and fresh seafood.Top Campervan Cooking TipsPlan meals that use overlapping ingredients to save space (e.g., one pot for soups and stews).Pack stackable containers and spice racks because good food deserves good seasoning!And yes, theres always room for a cheeky BBQ if you pack a small portable grill.Pick up local produce at farmers markets (think soda bread, cheese, and fish).Plan one-pot meals for easy cooking and cleaning.Dont skip a good Irish breakfast black pudding included!Fun fact: Some campers treat cooking outdoors as part of the adventure especially if youre parked by the sea, cooking with that Atlantic breeze in your hair.9. Safety First: Camping Like a ProWhether youre in a tent or campervan, safety makes or breaks your trip.Surprising Safety MustsAlways check your campervans gas connections carbon monoxide is silent but deadly.Distribute weight evenly in your van unbalanced packing can make driving dangerous.Even in nature, lock up at night because curious animals (or people) can pop in!Final Words: A Tradition That Keeps EvolvingFrom Viking war tents to Victorian riverbanks, and now to fully kitted campervans on Irelands Wild Atlantic Way, camping has a long and fascinating history and its still evolving.Whether youre chasing adventure, cosiness, or just a break from the everyday, camping lets you create a home in nature on your own terms.So, if youre ready to explore Irelands wild corners or pitch a tent under the stars, remember: youre part of a centuries-old tradition. Use the camping facts we outlined above to have more fun, eat tastier meals, pack better gear, and maybe a portable speaker!The post Camping Facts: Surprising Things You Didnt Know About Camping in Ireland (and Beyond!) appeared first on Craic N Campers.