Its 7am and Im looking around the boot of my car one last time before I hit the road. Ive packed for every spot imaginable, swimsuits and wetsuits pilled beside trail runners and climbing harnesses. I pat the plaits on my head, check I have snacks, and hit the road. It almost feels like my first day of school. A few hours later Im walking up the stairs of The Avon in Blessington, reminding myself that if I can climb mountains on my own, I can walk into a room by myself. Stepping into the bright lounge I look around at the mix of women surrounding me, and feel myself relax at what I see. HER Outdoors Week is back! 2024 is the fourth year of the week-long Sport Ireland event, HER Outdoors Week. The aim of this week is to celebrate the benefits of being in and exercising in the outdoors, and bring visibility to female participation in sport and physical activity. Knowing how much I gain from the outdoors, this is a week that I love being involved in, and will happily shout from the rooftops about! My day at The Avon with Sport Ireland was a day to bring together different women in the Irish outdoors and sporting bodies, to celebrate, connect, and share experiences. The photos within this article are all from that day, taken while we tried our hands at archery, air-rifle shooting, climbing, zip-lining, and kayaking. How to get involvedHER Outdoors week is to help more women find their space in the outdoors. To do that, Sport Ireland work with local sport partnerships (LSPs), NGBs (National Governing Bodies, which are the organisations that manage different sports on the national level - such as Athletics Ireland, Canoeing Ireland, or Mountaineering Ireland), and outdoor facilitators, to provide as wide a variety of events as possibly within each area. These events are often free or subsidised to make them as affordable as possible. Find events near you: Check out the Her Outdoors Events MapYou can filter by activity type, or set a distance from your chosen location to see whats on in your area!Look up events organised by your Local Sports PartnershipLook up events organised by the NGB of the sport you want to tryMy top tips for finding events this year: many of the NGBs and LSPs are doing the booking for events through Eventbrite. If you find your Local Sports Partnership on Eventbrite see if they have a collection of events dedicated to HER Outdoors Week, or just scroll through all their upcoming events. Events listed on the HER Outdoors Events Map 2024 My Favourite Events by CountyTo give you some inspiration and a snapshot of what kind of events you can find all across Ireland this week, here are my top events per county! Carlow13th & 17th: Kayaking Adventure from Goresbridge (21)14th: Paddle-boarding & Outdoor Yoga 15th: Social Cycle along the Barrow Track (6) Find the Carlow Sports Partnership events hereCavan14th: Open Water Swim Camp (20)16th: Teens Day - Try Orienteering, Athletics and Triathlon (6) or Day at Tanagh Outdoor Adventure Centre (25)16th: 6 Week Outdoor Yoga Programme (25)17th: Mountain Biking Taster (15)17th: Map Reading Skills for Walkers & Hikers (17)Learn more about HER Outdoors Week in Cavan here, and find the Cavan Sports Partnership events here Clare13th: Teenage Girls Tag Rugby (10)13th & 15th: Intro to Rock Climbing 13th & Intro to Rock Climbing 15th (15)15th: Sailing at Kilrush (10); Kayaking at Mountshannon (5); or Open Water Swimming at Kilkee (5)17th: Surfing at Spanish Point Beach (10)24th: Beginner Caving Workshop (20)Find the Clare Sports Partnerships events hereCork14th: Try Fishing (free)14th: Try Orienteering (free)15th: Try Beach Volleyball in Marina Park (free)17th: Traditional Currach Rowing (free)17th: Beach Lacrosse in Inchydoney (free)17th: Improvers Mountain Navigation (15)Learn more about HER Outdoors Week in Cork here, and find the Cork Sports Partnership events hereDonegal: 13th - 17th: Try out Triathlon in Bundoran / Open Water Swimming techniques (to register contact Martina Coughlin 086 0826612) 14th: E-Bike Cycling at Downings (10)15th: Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Moville (10)15th: Kayaking in Kilcar and Kayaking in Gartan (15) Forest Walk , Campfire & Dip in St Johns Point Beach on 24th and Ards Friary on 25th (10) Learn more about HER Outdoors Week in Donegal here, and find the Donegal Sports Partnership events hereDublin14th: Disc Golf Workshop (free)14th: Mountain Biking in Ticknock (10)14th: Yoga in Fernhill Park (5)15th: Intro to Mountain Navigation (15)15th & 16th: Intro to Rock Climbing 15th & Intro to Rock Climbing 16th (15)17th: Lucan BMX ClubBecause Dublin has three different councils:Info on events from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports PartnershipInfo on events from Active South DublinInfo on events from Fingal SportsGalway13th: Morning Swim & Breathwork Workshop (4)14th: Orienteering in Merlin Woods (free)17th: Sunset Paddle to Innis Lacken (12)18th: Intro to Mountain Navigation (15)Find the Galway Sports Partnership events hereKerry17th: Kayaking in Sneem (10)17th: Intro to Mountain Navigation (15)18th: Kayaking in Listowel or Kayaking in Killorglin (12)Find the Kerry Sports Partnership events hereKildare13th: HER Outdoors FestivalFind the Kildare Sports Partnership events hereKilkenny21st: Get Her Kayaking, Graiguenamanagh (20) A 4-week Outdoor Adventure Programme for teenage girls in Castlecomer Discovery Park15th & 16th: Rock Climbing on the 15th or on the 16th (15)17th: Castlecomer Mountain Biking (15)Find the Kilkenny Recreation & Sports Partnership events here Laois13th: Womens Social Kayaking14th: Girls SUP-ing in Vicarstown (20) Find the Laois Sports Partnership events hereLeitrim14th: Teenage Kayaking Session at Lough Rinn (free)14th: Glencar Escarpment Hike (7)16th: Outdoors Activator Pole at Lough Rinn (free)Find the Leitrim Sports Partnership events hereLimerick13th: Clay Target Shooting (5)13th: free Ballyhoura Hike at 10am from Darragh Creamery, no registration required13th & 15th: Dragon Boating - contact amandapublicrelationsLD@outlook.com for booking14th: free Kilmallock Walk at 11am from library, no registration required15th: Mountain biking (5)16th: Yoga at Lough Gur (5)17th: HER Outdoors Festival, 3pm - 7pm at OBriens Park, no registration requiredLearn more about HER Outdoors week and find booking links for Limerick Sports Partnership hereLongford15th: Archery (5)16th: Inclusive Kayaking (5)17th: River rafting (5)18th: Archery (5) Learn more about HER Outdoors week and events happening in Longford hereLouth14th: Introduction to Nordic Walking (5)16th: Cooley Heritage Walk (5)16th: Intro to Open Water Swimming at Salterstown Pier or at Priest Beach Blackrock (5)16th: Kite Design & Flying Workshop for Teens with Additional Needs (5)17th: Sunset hike in the Cooleys (10)17th: SUP-ing at Port Beach (10)17th: Day at Carlingford Adventure Centre for Teens (20)18th: Intro to Archery for Teens (5)Find out about the events with Louth Sports Partnership hereMayo14th: Guided Hike with Achill Outdoor (6)15th: Yoga & Cycle Castlebar (5)16th: Intro to Trail Running (free)16th: Improvers Mountain Navigation (15)Find the Mayo Sports Partnership Events hereMeath13th: Orienteering at Deerpark, Carlanstown (free)14th: Archery for Women and Girls - to book email athboyarcheryclub@yahoo.com 14th: Try Canoeing in Trim (free)15th: Inclusive Canoeing with Ribbontail Paddlers (free)15th: Outdoor Ptanque for Women 50+ (free)17th: Womens Cycle on the Boyne Valley Greenway (free)Find more info on the Meath Sports Partnership events hereMonaghan13th - 15th: Womens Woodland Wellness Walks. Each day a different location, book here (free)15th: Family Orienteering Event (free)13th & 18th: Touring Kayak of Dromore River (free)Find more links to the Monaghan Sports Partnership events hereOffaly16th: Chair Yoga & Mindfullness 13th & 14th: Kayaking on the Grand CanalFind our more abut Offaly Sports Partnership events hereRoscommon13th: Inclusive Tennis Taster (free)13th: Outdoor Boccia & Bowls (free)14th: Come Try Golf in Strokestown (5)16th: Park Fit Workout in Lisnamult (free)Find more of the Roscommon Sports Partnership events hereSligo13th: Guided Carrowkeel Hike (15)15th: Guided Night Hike through Cairns Hill (10)17th: Intro to Mountain Navigation (15)Find more links to the Sligo Sports Partnership events hereTipperary14th: Intro to Dragon Boating (free)14th: Ladies Aqua Splash (5)17th: Intro to Mountain Biking (free)18th: Intro to Navigation (15)Find more about HER Outdoors Week in Tipperary here, and find out more about events here.Waterford14th: Intro to Scrambling Skills (15)15th: Adventure Walk at Glenshelane Woods (3)Find the Waterford Sport Partnership events hereWestmeath13th: Try Pitch & Put in Collinstown (free)14th: Try SUP Yoga on Lough Ennell (10)14th: Try Orienteering in Athlone (5)Find the Westmeath Sports Partnership events hereWexford13th: Try Orienteering in Wexford Town (6)15th: Adult Mountain Biking Taster Session (5)15th: Teens Mountain Biking Taster (5)17th: Teens SUP at Forth Mountain (5)Find more info and book Wexford Sport Partnership events hereWicklow13th & 16th: Mountain Environment Hike 13th & Mountain Environment Hike 16th (15)15th: Greystones Beach Festival - Intro to Sea Swimming; Beach Volleyball; Tug of War; Beach Olympic Handball; Beach Tennis; Water Safety Talk.16th: Intro to Mountain Navigation (15)16th: Walk NTalk Arklow (free)18th: 3x3 Basketball Bray (free)Learn more about and find Wicklow Sports Partnership events here National Governing Bodies EventsBelow youll find the list of National Governing Bodies who are organising events across Ireland as part of HER Outdoors Week. Note - many sports partnerships are running events, so while you might not see the NGB you are interested in below, that does not mean that the sport youre interested in isnt being facilitated. Mountaineering Ireland HER Outdoors Week CollectionCycling Ireland Events ListCanoeing Ireland: main info page, all events are listen in the Sport Ireland Activities Map Athletics Ireland: info page, with participating clubs listedRowing Ireland: info page with direct links to event registrationSwim Ireland: info page with direct links to event registrationTriathlon Ireland: Women in Sport Tri Leader CourseFind the full list of recognised NGBs in Ireland here, and find the list of Local Sport Partnerships here.

Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland. Standing at 1,041 metres (3,414 feet), getting to the top involves an extremely strenuous hike. It goes without saying, the Carrauntoohil hike should only be undertaken with plenty of fitness and training under your belt. A further complication is the fact that the Carrauntoohil hike involves plenty of []The post Carrauntoohil Hike via The Devils Ladder appeared first on Wild Irish Walks.

If you're looking to boost your self-esteem, attract positive energy, and unleash your inner superhero, you've come to the right place. Lets dive headfirst into the realm of positive affirmations. But what are affirmations? Positive affirmations are like a secret weapon that can transform your mindset and empower you to conquer the world with a smile. So, let's buckle up and explore what positive affirmations are all about What are Positive Affirmations? Positive affirmations are short, powerful statements or phrases that individuals repeat to themselves to promote a positive mindset and self-belief. These affirmations are designed to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts.When practised regularly, they can help to rewire the brain, encouraging more optimistic and constructive thinking patterns.Affirmations often focus on desired outcomes, personal strengths, and intrinsic values, and are typically phrased in the present tense. Examples include statements like "I am confident," "I am deserving of happiness," and "I am capable of achieving my goals."The practice of using positive affirmations is rooted in the idea that the mind can be trained to support one's aspirations through the repetition of positive and empowering language.This technique is commonly used in personal development, mental health practices, and by those seeking to boost their self-esteem and overall well-being. By consistently affirming positive beliefs, individuals can cultivate a more resilient and positive mindset, which can contribute significantly to achieving personal and professional success.But don't just take my word for it! Science has our back too. Do Positive Affirmations Work? Positive affirmations can indeed be effective, and several research-backed examples support their efficacy. The underlying principle is that by consistently repeating positive statements, individuals can reprogram their subconscious mind to adopt these beliefs, leading to positive changes in their behaviour and mindset.One study conducted by Cohen and Sherman (2014) found that self-affirmation can buffer stress and improve problem-solving abilities. Participants who engaged in self-affirmation exercises performed better under stress compared to those who did not, indicating that positive affirmations can enhance resilience and cognitive performance.In another study by Falk et al. (2015), brain imaging techniques showed that positive affirmations activated the brain's reward centres. This suggests that affirmations can foster a sense of self-worth and motivation, promoting positive behavioural changes. The research demonstrated that individuals who practiced self-affirmation showed increased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, a region associated with self-related processing and valuation.Moreover, a study by Critcher and Dunning (2015) found that self-affirmations can improve academic performance among students. Students who wrote about their core values at the beginning of the school year achieved higher grades compared to those who did not, highlighting how positive affirmations can enhance academic success by reducing stress and boosting confidence.While positive affirmations are not a cure-all and may not work for everyone, these studies indicate that they can be a valuable tool in promoting mental well-being and achieving personal goals when used consistently and genuinely. Examples of Positive Affirmations But how can we put these affirmations into practice? Well, here are ten examples to get you started on your journey to self-empowerment:I am worthy of love and respect just as I am.I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.I radiate confidence, joy, and positivity wherever I go.I am in control of my thoughts, and I choose positivity.I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.I am grateful for the abundance of blessings in my life.I attract positive experiences and incredible opportunities.I am surrounded by a supportive and loving network of people.I have the power to create the life of my dreams.I am deserving of all the happiness and success that comes my way.Remember, affirmations are most effective when personalized and aligned with your goals and values. Looking for more positive affirmations? Weve got you covered50 Positive Affirmations to improve your mindset20 Positive Affirmations for Pregnancy and Birth30 Positive Affirmations for Kids How to Use Positive Affirmations Using positive affirmations effectively involves several key steps.First, identify the areas of your life where you want to see improvement or where you need more confidence. Craft affirmations that are specific, positive, and stated in the present tense, such as "I am worthy of love and respect" or "I am capable of achieving my goals."Repeat these affirmations daily, preferably in front of a mirror, to reinforce their message.Incorporate them into your daily routine, perhaps during your morning or bedtime rituals, or whenever you need a boost of confidence.It can also be helpful to write them down and place them in visible areas, like your workspace or on your bathroom mirror.Consistency is crucial, as regular repetition helps to ingrain these positive beliefs into your subconscious mind, gradually shifting your thought patterns towards a more positive and self-empowering outlook. Shop Positive Affirmation Cards Still Not So Sure? Now, let's address the sceptics who may think that positive affirmations are nothing more than wishful thinking.While affirmations aren't magical incantations that guarantee instant success, they serve as a catalyst for change.They help shift our mindset and create a positive outlook, which, in turn, motivates us to take action towards our goals.So, dear reader, it's time to unleash your inner superhero and tap into the power of positive affirmations.Embrace the journey of self-discovery, self-belief, and self-empowerment. So, I hope Ive answered your question on What are Positive Affirmations?. Just remember - Positive affirmations are more than just fluffy words or empty promises. They are a mighty tool that can transform your life from the inside out. What are your favourite positive affirmations? Let me know in the comments below Other Posts You Might Like180 Travel Quotes to Ignite Your Inner Explorer72 Inspirational Adventure Quotes33 Inspiring Quotes for New Mums140 Motivational Quotes to Inspire You

In this months big competition, we have a superb backpacking/trekking pack up for grabs from premium pack brand Gregory.When it comes to trekking and backpacking trips, you need a pack that offers lots of storage and high levels of comfort, and these two packs from Gregory give you both in spades. The Amber 68 (womens) and Stout 70 (mens) are the largest packs in the Gregory range offering a maximum carry of 22.7kg, yet weigh only 1.63kg/1.71kg and offer a host of features that ensure your comfort on the trail. Both packs have an VersaFit adjustable backsystem which allows you to get exactly the right fit for your body. The perforated, 3D foam backpanel gives great breathability, while a wishbone alloy frame delivers cushioned support. The padded wraparound hipbelt has large zippered pockets, while the perforated, breathable shoulder harness with sternum strap also includes an integral safety whistle. As well as superior comfort, storage options are a huge part of these packs appeal, with the main compartment easily accessed by a large U-shaped zipper, and additional options including two mesh side pockets, a zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment and a large stretch mesh pocket ideal for keeping your rain jacket or other items close to hand. Heres a summary of some of the key features:KEY FEATURES Padded wraparound hipbelt with large zippered pockets Perforated, breathable shoulder harness with sternum strap featuring an integrated safety whistle Wishbone alloy frame for stable load management and torsional flexibility Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment Zippered top pocket with underside zippered pocket and key clip Dual-side durable mesh pockets with top and bottom compression straps Front oversized stretch mesh pocket with durable fabric panel Quick-pull drawcord closure and top webbing compression Hydration sleeve with Speedclip hydration attachment system compatible with Gregory Hydro reservoirs (reservoir not included) Trekking pole/tool attachment point with bungee closure system Reinforced bottom panel with dual layer construction Included raincover stored in zippered pocket under top lid Large U-Zip opening to easily access gear packed in the centre section of the packHOW TO ENTERFor a chance of winning one of these superb packs, just answer the following question:What is the name of the adjustable back system on the Stout 70 and Amber 68?A. VersaTileB. VersaFitC. VersaViceENTER YOUR ANSWER HERE!Entries must be received by 15/08/24 and the winner will be announced 30/08/24.

Stay local and seize the moment this summer with doorstep adventure itineraries from Quirky Campers.Welcome to Part Two of the Quirky Campers Doorstep Adventure Series! This summer were encouraging you to chase the sunshine and make the most of last minute summer getaways by hiring a campervan from Quirky Campers for a short break in the UK.Theres plenty of adventures on offer right on your doorstep, no need to travel far to experience new places and discover a whole new world in your backyard. Avoid the crowds by choosing one of these recommended lesser known local spots, plan for a last minute long weekend or a midweek escape for a quiet break from everyday chaos. The Quirky Campers Doorstep Adventure Series are perfect for a few well deserved days off. All the suggestions included in this blog are at most a few hours drive from the city centre and campervan pick up locations, and have been vetted and are recommended by Quirky Campers expert local staff.Expect local caf recommendations, scenic walks, great campsites, and of course, the best campervans for hire. Weve done all the admin and planning for you all you have to do is simply pick up your unique, hand-crafted campervan and set off into the sunset.If youve not yet discovered Part One of our Doorstep Adventure Series, take a look at the Bristol Doorstep Adventures here. Blog Contents Benefits of Local TravelWho are the itineraries for?Doorstep Adventure Series Part 2 Leeds to WhitbyStep One Hire a Leeds based Quirky CampervanStep Two Choose Your Activity Step Three Choose Your Campervan Camping SpotEat and DrinkCampervans Available to Hire YorkshireBenefits of Local TravelSave Yourself Money!Travelling locally means youll spend less on fuel, one of the most expensive aspects of road-tripping. Campervans are also more economical at slower speeds, so by driving shorter distances at 60 mph, you can save the pennies and push that back into your local economy by supporting local, independent shops and cafes. Avoid StressTravelling long distance inevitably mean delays from long traffic jams on motorways. Avoid this needless stress, and having to navigate unknown roads and areas by staying local. This also offers you the flexibility to adapt and change your plans if the weather changes or if you simply change your mind.Eco-Friendly TravelGo green with your travel by lowering your carbon emissions. Travelling slower and shorter distances will dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and help prevent overcrowding at popular tourist spots. Embrace the path less travelled and discover the hidden gems in your own backyard.Beat the CrowdsExpand your horizons and explore beyond the norm away from the usual tourist destinations. Discover lesser-known treasures closer to home so you and your family can reconnect in peace and quiet, unwinding and embracing the opportunity for quality time together.Who are the itineraries for?Everyone! Hiring a campervan can be made accessible to all, from families to couples, to solo travellers and groups of friends, all you need is the right campervan. Our varied selection of campervans for hire include campervans with isofix, with 6ft+ beds, with heaters, even some with WIFI so no matter what your needs are theres a Quirky Campervan to suit you.Check out our guide on hiring a campervan for more info on how the process works.Easy Family Weekend AwayYorkshire is an ideal getaway for family holidays, and with a campervan to hand you dont have to worry about storage space or what to take with you. You can have everything to hand at a moments notice. If the beach day turns rainy hide in the campervan with board games and have a cosy afternoon in. If youre travelling on a budget pull-up at a forest with enchanting views and whip up a family feasts in the evening. Staying local with your campervan also minimises the stress and bother of long journeysno more bored kids kicking the backseat, just fun, adventure, and epic memories.Romantic GetawayChoose from one of our perfect for two campervans and rekindle the spontaneity of your honeymoon period with a last-minute campervan trip. Yorkshire is filled with perfect romantic picnic spots, secluded beaches and idyllic locations to watch the sunset. The freedom a campervan offers means you can chase the sunshine, the sunsets and never miss a moment. At night, Yorkshire has some of the clearest night skies in the UK you too could discover the wonders of stargazing from the comfort of your home on wheels.Solo AdventureIf youre looking for a solitary escape to reconnect with nature and yourself, Yorkshires welcoming vibes are the perfect location. Dip your toes into solo travel with a short weekend or weekday break in a campervan. Youll be safe and secure inside a locked van while benefitting from the freedom of solo travel. Short trips are great for rejuvenating the soul, escaping from work and stress and embracing the open road.Friends AdventureGather all your favourite people and hire a campervan to escape the city. Its amazing how much longer a weekend feels when youre discovering new places and exploring local sights with your BFFs. Bring everyone closer together again with stories and drinks around a campfire as the sun sets, enjoying good drinks, good food, and the best company.Doorstep Adventure Series Part 2 Leeds to WhitbyLeeds is a city with wilderness on its doorstep. The city itself is a hub of excitement and fun but just a short drive away youll be in the heart of the UKs countryside. Right on the cusp of the Peak District, the Yorkshire Moors and Dales and some of the most beautiful national parks in the country. Theres unlimited areas to explore. Quirky have narrowed it down for you, to a short 2 day road-trip from Leeds via York to Whitby and the North York Moors.Step One Hire a Leeds based Quirky CampervanThere are a wide variety of Quirky Campervans available to hire from Leeds and the surrounding area. They come in every style and size so theres a perfect campervan for you no matter what adventure youre choosing. Just choose your dates, pick a campervan and get driving!You can see ourfull campervan listings hereor check out some of our best Yorkshire based campervans at the end of this blog.Step Two Choose Your Activity Activity Wander the Walled City of YorkDriving North East from Leeds youll pass by the quaint walled city of York, a haven for culture and history lovers. Stroll the narrow cobbled lanes and explore the many local independent shops and cafes. There are guided history walks for all kinds of travellers, whether youd like a ghost tour, a whisky tour or a family friendly tour of the city. Visit 22 Yards Wine Bar & Merchants for a chic wine bar, Hairy Fig for locally sourced food and produce, and Rise for fresh coffee and the best brunch in town. Stop here for the day or spend the night to experience an evening in this bustling metropolis.Experience North York Moors National ParkEn-route to Whitby you will drive through the North York Moors National Park. Stunning scenery awaits you in this beautiful landscape. Experience the tranquillity of this unique location filled with walks for all abilities.North York Moors National Park HikesNewtondale Hiking TrailAn easy scenic round trip along a moderate trail that takes in a gentle valley and magical woodlands.Time 2.5 HoursDistance 6.1 MilesLevisham Moor and Hole of HorcumA classic North York Moors scenic walk this 5 miles track crosses the Levisham Moor, a rocky ravine and the locally famous Hole of Horcum.Time 2.20 HoursDistance 5.3 MilesDiscover WhitbyThe final stop of your mini road-trip from Leeds, stop over in the coastal seaside town of Whitby. A coastal gem and the location of Draculas famous landing in Bram Stokers novel. Visit the Whitby Abbey ruins, or wander the historic port in the town centre.Step Three Choose Your Campervan Camping SpotCampsite: Bayness Farm CampsiteA lush green campsite settled in the beautiful Robin Hood Bay. Stop over at this scenic campsite with plentiful facilities. A short drive from Whitby and on the cusp of the moors theres plenty of nearby walks to explore the local area.Facilities Electric Hook-Ups | Toilets | ShowersAddress Bayness Farm Campsite, Bayness, Robin Hoods Bay, YO22 4PJLooking for a different place to park overnight? Check out our guide onthe 5 easiest ways to find overnight campervan camping spots or our campsite directory for more options. Eat and DrinkQuirky Campers recommendations for local eateries and excellent coffee stops along the way. Nothing like a steaming hot, fresh coffee and cake just baked that morning to fuel your adventures!Courtyard Cafe at Dalby ForestAddress The Courtyard, Dalby Forest Dr, Pickering YO18 7LTThis cafe is the perfect place to refuel and recharge whether youre pre or post hike or are just passing through. Enjoy forest views while you taste fresh coffee, baked cakes and a range of sandwiches. Theres even bike hire next door so you can fuel up for a forest bike ride.Lockton Tearooms and GalleryAddress: Hudgin Ln, Lockton, Pickering YO18 7QAThis Lockton local secret offers a range of tempting hot breakfasts, fresh-made sandwiches and freshly baked cakes, artisan coffee and afternoon teas. One of the top rated cafes in the area its definitely worth the detour to check out this cafe come gallery field with delicious eats, and a selection of artwork by local artists.Campervans Available to Hire YorkshireCheck out Quirky Campers selection of campervans available to hire from Leeds and the nearby area. These campervans are all unique conversions that have been hand-curated with travelling and adventures in mind. They all come with insurance and breakdown cover included in the bookings so you have peace of mind while you travel.Mango Hire from DewsburyHire Mango for your last minute adventure. This bright and airy campervan has a double bed, two belted seats, a fully equipped kitchen, inside shower and a toilet. Perfect for adventures for two or solo travellers this colourful campervan companion will make the perfect last minute escape.Wout Hire from Burley in WharfdaleHire Wout for your next campervan adventure, take this easy going blue camper on your mini-break and youll be taking your home with you. Wout has 3 belted seats and a double bed for up to 2 adults, is spacious and has a fully equipped kitchen. Youll have no trouble travelling to the coast with Wout as your companion.Django Hire from DesburyHire Django for a luxury campervan experience. With a bathroom onboard including a shower and toilet, plus a fully equipped kitchen and comfy double bed Django has all the amenities of a 5 star hotel room with all the freedom of a campervan!Are you ready for your doorstep adventure? Hire a campervan today and get to know your local landscape!The post Doorstep Campervan Adventures Yorkshire appeared first on Quirky Campers.

5-Day Southern California Road Trip

Retirement is the perfect time to hit the open road and take part in those trips and experiences youve always dreamed of ...

The third route in our Wild Atlantic Way series covers the northwestern stretch of Sligo and Donegal.Weve compiled suggestions from our own campervan adventures on the Wild Atlantic Way, and from other seasoned campers in our Craic N Campers community, to give you tried & tested recommendations. Keep reading to find out where to stay, where to eat and what to do on your journey to the most northern tip of Ireland.Day 1 & 2 DONEGALThe fastest route to the campsite for your first two nights is a 3-hour drive via Ballybofey & Letterkenny, but youll be missing out on some of the best bits! Youre on holidays, take your time and take the scenic route, heading westward after Donegal town towards Ardara. This will allow you to take in some of the most dramatic Donegal scenery such as the Assaranca Waterfall.Where to eat:Time to refuel. Continue 40 minutes further up the road from Ardara until you reach the Gaeltacht town of Dungloe. Call into McCaffertys and try their locally sourced steak. We love how they offer a selection of steak toppers, our favourite is the Saut Garlic Tiger Prawns!Back on the road, youre now just an hour away from the Rosguill Holiday Park, arriving just in time to enjoy a Donegal sunset, which never disappoints.Where to stay:Rosguill Holiday Park is a four-star, family-owned campsite that has been providing the Irish campervan community with scenic pitches and plenty of delightful extras for over 30 years. Some of our families favourite on-site facilities at Rosguill include the tennis court, the pitch & putt course, and the new childrens play park.What to do:Visit Malin Head, Irelands most northerly point. A two-hour drive from the campsite that will take you through the lively market town of Letterkenny on the way. (Make a pitstop at Bru Lab for the best coffee in town and a treat from their in-house bakery!).Apart from the magnificence of Malin Head itself, some other famous landmarks to look out for once you get there are Hells Hole Cavern and the natural arch formation known as Devils Bridge. You might even get to see the Lighthouse on Inishtrahull Island if its a good enough day weather wise.If you want to stay closer to the campsite, theres a hidden gem nearby called Murder Hole Beach Its hard to reach and a bit of a hike, but dont be put off by its misleading name, its actually a hidden piece of heaven on earth!Where to eat:For dinner on day two we recommend The Singing Pub, a cosy, traditional thatched cottage with tasty pub grub thats only a short 5-minute drive from your campsite.Day 3 SLIGOLater today youll be swapping the hills of Donegal for the sandy beaches of Sligo, but before you leave, take a small detour to see the Slieve League Sea Cliffs (theyre almost three times the hight of the Cliffs of Moher!). Youll also be passing through the friendly fishing village of Killybegs. Its worth a stop to sample some fresh seafood or take the sea safari tour to do some Dolphin spotting.Where to stay:When you reach Sligo, we suggest staying at Greenlands Caravan Park, a five-minute walk away from the village of Rosses Point, or if you want to wild camp, Silver Strand Beach has some suitable locations close by.Where to eat:The Driftwood Smokehouse Restaurant wins the vote hands down for its gorgeous views over Sligo Bay and an equally beautiful menu with very reasonable prices.Austies Pub and Kitchen is another popular option for food or a drink, especially for those travelling with pets as its a dog friendly pub!What to do:The Gleniff Horseshoe loop is a half hour drive that showcases some of the most spectacular views. You can walk the loop either, but you will have to give yourself a good 3 hours if walking.Enjoy the beautiful beaches at Rosses Point, Strandhill and Mullaghmore.Climb Benbulben, Irelands famous flat top mountain. There are several routes but the most popular is starting from a landmark known as Lukes Bridge. This is a little bit of a longer route than some others, but there is less climbing involved this way.Day 4 SLIGO & LEITRIM / ROSCOMMONAs with all of our Wild Atlantic Way itineraries, we like to give suggestions of campsites close to the depot for the last night of your trip, leaving it handier for you for drop off at the depot the following morning.For this route we suggest Battlebridge Caravan and Camping Park, in Carrick-On-Shannon, a favourite of many of our previous campervan rental customers, and our own families. It was recently selected as one of the 5 best campsites in Ireland 2024.Settle in on your last night at this stunning river-side location on the new Shannon Blueway and enjoy all the facilities on offer including the award-winning Gastro Pub onsite.Another popular option for night 4 is Lough Key Forest & Activity Park in Boyle Co. Roscommon. This is a particularly good choice if you are travelling with children and have time to spare on your last day (or want to extend your trip by a day) There are loads of activities on site including a massive play park, a zip lining course, kayaking, and loads more.Its worth mentioning that all the campsites included in this itinerary are listed as dog friendly and we have a selection of dog friendly campervans for hire too, get in touch to find out more!Check out our other blog posts for more suggested routes and itineraries for your next Wild Atlantic Way campervan adventure.The post 4 Day Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Donegal & Sligo appeared first on Craic N Campers.