As has become tradition these last few years (2024, 2023, 2022), it is time for a little bit of fun and inspiration for your Christmas shopping, or just happy daydreaming. Previously Ive focused on some of my favourite gear or little hiking luxuries - which Ill summarise quickly below. But because I feel Ive covered these things well enough by now in the previous write-ups, my main focus this year is things that are inspired by the outdoors, and by as many Irish brands and makers as possible. Favourite Gear Gift 1. The MSR Pocket Rocket Stove System2. Hiking Maps: Laminated OSI or EastWest Mapping for Ireland3. Good quality hiking socks: Darn Tough and Smartwool being some of our favourites4. The Irish Peaks Book (limited stock left)5. Dry Bags: especially if living in Ireland (or similar climate) 6. Lightweight, high power battery bank7. A new rechargeable head torch 8. Repair & Care Kits: be it special patches for insulation jackets, to re-waterproofing kits for their jackets, or puncture repair kits for sleeping mats. 9. A nice outdoor coffee cup or water bottle10. A gift card for their local outdoor shop Nature Inspired Gifting One of the tricky things about trying to buy gear for the outdoorsy person we love, is that quite often they have a very specific make and model of gear that they are after that they have researched and chosen for their specific adventures. However, Ive found that finding things that are inspired by the places that bring me so much joy can bring an extra little thread of that happiness into the everyday. So here are some wonderful things made by the lovely people Ive met while travelling around this little green island The Wandering Goldsmith Leika makes the most beautiful jewellery in her little studio in Cork, inspired by her adventures in Ireland and abroad. Following her online, youll see her melting and engraving one day, and out on the trails of the Sheeps Head Peninsula the next. And if youre reading this post just after it is published - Leika and I are running a giveaway on Instagram at the moment (Giveaway closes 29th November 2025).Salty Sea SistersCreated to inspire, the Salty Sea Sister Adventure maps cover everything wild swimming and hiking all over the island of Ireland, and the UK. Get a travel copy, or a print version to hang on the wall.Durt Burds Soaps Handmade in Wicklow, they forage nettles, wild mint and more to create small batch soaps with names to make you giggle. Until their website is up and running, you can find their soaps in person at the Hollywood Cafe or Glendalough Green, at and online from The Potting Shed.Pilgrim HydrationMiriam has been an active adventurer for over 20 years, and through that time has really focused on the importance of recovery. She began creating different electrolyte formulas in her kitchen, and over a decade later and extensive testing, shes now partnered with one of Irelands leading nutritional manufacturers to create Pilgrim Hydration Electrolyte Drinks Mix. These electrolytes are unique in that they are non-fizzy, and everything from the powdered mix to the packaging is all made in Ireland. Jump the HedgesSofra is one of my favourite makers, and the couple of bags Ive bought from her are truly standing the test of time. Reclaimed materials such as truck tarpaulin and aeroplane seat materials are sourced from all over Ireland and then industrially washed in rainwater. Each bag is then hand cut and stitched on a vintage Japanese Juki sewing machine in a small workshop at the foot of Cave Hill mountain in north Belfast.Each and every bag is totally unique.Bags are sold via Bag Drops which happen 3 times per year - with the winter 2025 drop scheduled for early December (Newsletter subscribers get first access). 6. Give a Conservation Membership Some of my favourite charities and conservation groups that have membership options are: 1. BirdWatch Ireland2. Irish Whale & Dolphin Group3. Irish Wildlife Trust4. Native Woodland Trust5. Irish Peatland Conservation Council6. Bat Conservation Ireland7. Hometree8. Seal Rescue Ireland 7. OutsideIn FleecesOutsideIn is a Northern Irish clothing brand helping people experiencing homelessness. With their Wear One: Share One campaign, every purchase is matched with brand-new, essential clothing donated to someone in need.In my opinion, their fleeces are particularly outdoorsy feeling. 8. Trails & Roots Trails & Roots is a trail running vacation company founded by Irish-woman Heather. Back in January I went to Thailand with them, and it was one of the best travel experiences Ive ever had. Heather creates incredible trips, with all food made in-house by a private chef, all running routes created by Heather and the local guides she works with, as well as afternoon and evening activities to experience the local culture.Heather has built Trails & Roots to be as positive for the planet as she can, being a member of 1% for the Planet, are partnered with Trees not Tees, run a completely plant-based camp, and support inclusion in the outdoors through sponsoring events like TrailCri's Fauna Festival. All of their 2026 trail camps are on their website, and they also do vouchers. 9. BeKind IndustriesBeKind Industries is an Irish brand creating hand-rolled incense and essential oils inspired by the Irish outdoors. Their scents are lovely - I first came across them when walking St. Kevins Way, and Belle from An Teachain Beag gave me the incense they made inspired by the trail. 10. Tough Soles PrintsFinally, it would be remiss of me not to mention that Tough Soles does prints, cards, and (will soon have) 2026 calendars for sale. You can find them all here. And if you really love what Tough Soles makes overall, you can support everything we do on Patreon. The 2025 Booklist As a lover of reading and the beauty of books, there will always be a little book section at the end. So here are my recommendations for 2025: 1. Ponies at the Edge of the World by Catherine Munro2. Ninety-Nine Words for Rain (and One for Sun) by Manchn Magan 3. Straw, Hay & Rushes by Anne ODowd4. The World-Ending Fire, The Essential Wendell Berry5. Newgrange & the Bend of the Boyne by Geraldine Stout 6. An Irish Atlantic Rainforest by Eoghan Dalton7. Nature Boy by Sen Ronayne

RV Guides

RV Insurance for Rentals: What It Covers (and What It Doesnt)

How to Find the Best RV Rentals Near Me (Without Overpaying)

If youre looking for an easy, family-friendly day out in North Wales, Alyn Waters Country Park in Wrexham is a brilliant choice.With peaceful woodland walks, a fun playground, a welcoming caf, and plenty of open space for little ones to run wild, its the perfect spot for a family-friendly adventure.Whether youre based locally or exploring North Wales on holiday, Alyn Waters offers a great mix of nature, play, and relaxation all in one place. Where Is Alyn Waters Country Park?Alyn Waters Country Park is located between the villages of Llay and Gwersyllt, Wrexham, and is managed by Wrexham County Borough Council.The park is actually split into two, either side of the River Alyn.The Gwersyllt entrance features a convenient car park, a welcoming visitor centre with a caf, gift shop, and toilet facilities (including baby changing). Inside, youll also find a permanent exhibition showcasing the parks rich history and local wildlife, along with well-equipped meeting and conference rooms. Over on the Llay side, theres a spacious car park, a fantastic childrens play area, and access to a peaceful local nature reserve perfect for a family stroll. Gwersyllt EntrancePostcode: LL11 4AGDirections: To get to the visitor centre, follow the A541 Wrexham to Mold road just beyond Gwersyllt and watch for the brown and white tourist signs.Opening times: 8:30am - 4:30pm, 7 days a weekParking: 1 per car. Pay-and-display machines are conveniently located throughout the car park, accepting both cash and card payments. Llay EntrancePostcode: LL12 0PUDirections: Take the B5425 from Wrexham towards Llay and keep an eye out for the same brown and white signs before you reach the village.Opening times: 8:30am - 4:30pm, 7 days a weekParking: 1 per car. Pay-and-display machines. Cash only. Alyn Waters Country Park WalksThere are several gentle walks at Alyn Waters Country Park, making it a great option for families with toddlers, pushchairs or grandparents in tow. Most paths are flat and well-surfaced, so you can easily explore with little legs or a buggy.Pick up an Alyn Waters Country Park map from the visitor centre or download one online before you go itll help you choose the right route for your family.Gwersyllt Side WalksFollow the coloured footprint routes starting near the visitor centre:Yellow Trail ( mile): A short, gentle walk through woodland and wildflower meadows to the river, with benches for rest stops along the way.Green Trail (1 mile): Extends the yellow route through open grassland and Skylark Meadow, where you might spot these rare birds and the parks striking steel Metamorphosis sculptures.Orange Trail (1 miles): A peaceful riverside route lined with oak and horse chestnut trees. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, dippers, and dragonflies as you wander back via the woodland path.Llay Side TrailsThe Llay entrance offers equally scenic walks starting from the main car park:Blue Trail ( mile): A short loop around willow and birch woodland, passing the impressive cloud sculpture before circling back.Red Trail (2 miles): A longer woodland route ideal for wildlife spotting look out for woodpeckers and marble egg sculptures hidden among the trees.Purple Trail (2 miles): A circular walk through the nature reserve and past the golf course, featuring mining-themed sculptures along the way.All trails are well signposted, family-friendly, and great for a relaxed day outdoors. Alyn Waters Circular Walk MapHeres a map of my favourite loop at Alyn Waters Country Park. Its an easy, toddler-friendly (and pushchair-friendly!) walk that takes you through peaceful woodland, along the river where little ones can stop to splash and explore, and finishes perfectly at the playground - a great reward after your family adventure. Alyn Waters Route Map (Komoot) Alyn Waters Country Park Playground and CafThe Alyn Waters playground is a big hit with kids of all ages. Its well-equipped with climbing frames, slides, swings, and plenty of space to play.After a good walk or a play in the park, Caffi Cyfle is the perfect place to stop and refuel. Its a lovely, welcoming spot that serves fresh, seasonal food - think hearty soups, homemade cakes, and a great cup of coffee. What I really love about it is the meaning behind the name: Caffi Cyfle means Caf of Opportunity, and its all about giving people from the local community the chance to gain experience through work and volunteering.Whether youre grabbing a post-walk coffee or sitting down for lunch with the family, Caffi Cyfle has that friendly, community feel that makes Alyn Waters such a special place to visit. Frequently Asked QuestionsIs Alyn Waters Good for Kids?Absolutely! Alyn Waters is one of the most family-friendly parks in Wrexham. The walks are easy, the facilities are great, and theres so much open space for kids to enjoy. The park is also dog-friendly, so its a lovely place for families who want to bring their four-legged friends along.If youre after a relaxed day outdoors without too much travel or uphill walking, Alyn Waters is a great choice.Are There Picnic Areas at Alyn Waters?Yes there are plenty of picnic areas scattered around the park, including near the main car park and along the woodland trails. On warm days, youll see families relaxing on the grass with picnics and ice creams. There are also benches and tables for those who prefer not to sit on the ground.Is there Much Wildlife at Alyn Waters?Alyn Waters is home to a surprising amount of wildlife. Keep an eye out for grey herons along the River Alyn, woodpeckers in the trees, and plenty of butterflies and dragonflies in summer. If you visit early in the morning, you might even spot rabbits and squirrels darting across the paths.Its a fantastic spot to encourage kids to get interested in nature and wildlife spotting. Where to Stay NearbyAfter exploring the trails at Alyn Waters Country Park, why not make a weekend of it? Wrexham and the surrounding area offer plenty of great places to stay - from family-friendly cottages to cosy countryside retreats.*Contains affiliate links I may earn a small commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. The Lodge at Cross Cottage The Lodge at Cross Cottage in Wrexham is a cosy one-bedroom retreat, complete with modern amenities, a spacious garden, and free on-site parking. Perfectly located near Chester and Delamere Forest, its an ideal base for couples looking to relax or explore North Wales and beyond. Book now on Booking.com Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa Just a short drive from Chesters historic centre, the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel and Spa offers elegant rooms, beautiful grounds, and relaxing facilities including a spa, pool, and gym. With its peaceful setting near the Welsh border, its a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or weekend retreat. Book now on Booking.com Other Walks Nearby Moel Famau WalksErddig Parklands Circular WalkThe Penycloddiau WalkMoel Arthur WalkA Scenic Pub Walk in Bodfari Whether youre local to Wrexham or exploring North Wales with your family, Alyn Waters Country Park is a wonderful spot for an easy walk, a play in the park, or a relaxed picnic surrounded by nature. Its the kind of place youll find yourself returning to time and again especially if youve got kids who love being outdoors. follow my adventures.

If youve been following me for a while, youll know Im a big fan of having a reliable portable power station in the motorhome. Even if you...The post REVIEW: Ecoflow River 3 Max Plus- vanlife essential or not? appeared first on Wandering Bird Motorhome Travel Blog.

Planning to go touring in France with a motorhome or campervan? There are some essential things you need to know before your trip, including important paperwork and kit to bring with you. Here's everything you need to know about motorhome travel in France.The post Motorhoming & Campervanning in France- Your Complete Guide appeared first on Wandering Bird Motorhome Travel Blog.

Worried about the UK Motorhome wild camping bill? Not sure how the law will change or what you need to do? Here's what you need to know...The post Motorhome wild camping- is it legal? appeared first on Wandering Bird Motorhome Travel Blog.

Planning a tour of Wales? Want to know the best places to visit on a Wales road trip? Here are 4 unmissable road trip itineraries that will take your breath away.The post Wales Road Trip the ONLY Itinerary (with Route Map) you Need! appeared first on Wandering Bird Motorhome Travel Blog.