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The days are getting warmer and the nights are stretching out – it’s time to put a spring in your step and get out and active in the great outdoors! If you’ve been hibernating during the winter months and are lacking motivation there has never been a better time to sign up to one of Northern Ireland’s great challenge events and give yourself something to work towards. Whether it’s off road running, cycling, hill walking, adventure racing or something a bit mad, working towards a challenge is the perfect way to motivate yourself, get outdoors and most importantly have some fun!
With events taking place throughout the year there’s plenty of time to train – no excuses needed! It doesn’t matter if you’re a fiercely competitive race junkie or a first timer who is more interested in completing than competing there is a challenge to suit everybody. Nothing beats that feeling of achievement when you cross the finish line – so sign up to one of the many take on the challenge events on OutdoorNI.com and get ready to work towards greatness!
Here are just a few of the many challenge events that are taking place throughout the year:
Cue the Rocky theme tune…
If you’re fed up pounding out the miles on the same old roads why not take part in one of 26 Extreme's off road running events? The Mourne Way Marathon is an off-road marathon with a spectacular view. For those serious runners looking to push themselves to the limit there are the options of an ultra marathon, marathon or half marathon - these routes are not for the fainthearted or under prepared making them all the more rewarding! If you don’t think you’re quite ready for the long distances yet then why not give the 10k or 5k route a go? The stunning views of the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty including stunning vistas of coast, sea and countryside will be all the motivation you need!
If you’re looking for a challenge like no other, one to benchmark your season’s performance then the Lakeland Warrior 100k is the event for you. Shorter yet still demanding routes of 50k and 27k are also available for those who want a challenge but find the 100k too daunting. The routes take in some of the most scenic areas in Co Fermanagh through an area of forest wilderness. However if you’re expecting flat terrain and smooth tarmac surfaces you will go home disappointed - start training and get ready to conquer the route to enjoy ‘warrior’ status.
If running isn’t your thing then dust down the bike and get ready to pump the peddles on a cycling sportive. A cycling sportive is a long distance, organised, mass-participation cycling event were participants battle against the clock and themselves rather than fighting for podium places.
Now in its second year the Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive is fast becoming the most talked about sportive on the Irish cycling calendar. Check out the 2011 event video and get ready to be inspired. With 3 routes on offer (57km, 126km 182km) through an incredible landscape steeped in myth and legend, this iconic event is sure to fill up fast – book early to avoid disappointment.
The Bangor Coastal Challenge, Dromara Mourne Sportive and the Inishowen 100 are just a few of the many sportives in Northern Ireland that are listed on our sister website CycleNI.com’s dedicated sportive section. Check it out to decide which sportive you want to take on first!
Another great cycling event is Lap the Lough as the name suggests the aim is to encourage as many cyclists to do one lap of Lough Neagh – roughly 130km. Apart from a few climbs the route is mostly on flat terrain and is by no means exclusively for elite or club cyclists - anyone who is up for a challenge is welcome!
If you can’t decide between running or cycling then the Belfast Off Road Duathlon is the perfect solution to your problem! Hosted by the Pioneer Group this challenge event consists of a 19k bike ride with a 2.5k run either side. Held in the beautiful surroundings of Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park, Belfast this is a great challenge for all ages to work towards.
There are some great charity hill walks taking place throughout Northern Ireland – the perfect opportunity to achieve something for yourself and others all at the same time!
Arguably the most demanding, the Ulster Cancer Foundation is hosting the Celtic Mountain Challenge an exhilarating experience involving climbing 4 of the highest peaks in Ireland - Slieve Donard, Errigal, Croagh Patrick and Lugnaquilla in just 3 days.
If you’re looking for a tough yet exhilarating challenge then look no further than the Oxfam Trailtrekker. Teams of four must complete the 100km or 50km route together beginning in Donard Park, Co Down, following the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Cooley Peninsula before finishing in Carlingford, Co Louth. A real team effort, participants will train together, fundraise together, provide encouragement to each other and hopefully have a lot of laughs along the way! Teams of all levels of experience are welcome to take part - with the right training and preparation, just about anyone can successfully complete the route so get ready to achieve something extraordinary!
For a shorter yet still demanding walk the Northern Ireland Hospice have organised a Mournes Trek. With a choice of two different yet challenging routes participants will encounter rocky tors, heather clad valleys, glistening reservoirs and views across the waters of Carlingford Lough on this one day challenge.
Something Different
If suspending yourself off some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic buildings sounds like your idea of fun then check out some of the many charity abseils taking place for a once in a life time experience. Abseil down the historic Scrabo Tower or descend down all 265feet of Belfast’s Obel Building – the highest building in Ireland!
For something completely different McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes Mud Madness is the ultimate muddy challenge! Take on this fun-filled assault course individually or as part of a team as you run through a mucky course of fields, ponds and bogs and over obstacles including a tyre pit, foxhole, climbing wall and cargo net. This is a great way to have a laugh whilst raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.
So what are you waiting for?! Sign up today and get training!
The newest member of Outdoor Recreation NI, Sarah joined the marketing team in the Summer of 2011. Despite having studied in St Andrews, Scotland for the past four years she still can't hit a golf ball however enjoys walks in the Mournes and adventures on the water.
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Love it or loath it, the giant cards and helium filled hearts mean you can’t ignore it – Valentine’s Day is fast approaching! If you’re struggling to think of what to do for Valentines Day then look no further. OutdoorNI.com has it covered with enough Valentine’s Day events and gift ideas to make even Cupid jealous!
If the thought of going to an overcrowded restaurant is looking less than romantic then fear not as there are some great Valentine's Day Events happening throughout Northern Ireland for you and your partner to enjoy. Nothing says romance like spontaneity so why not surprise your other half with something completely different?!
Here are just a few unique ways to spend this Valentine's Day weekend:
Swing, Roll & Soak Valentine’s Day Special, The Jungle, Co. Londonderry, 11th-18th Feb
The perfect treat for any adrenaline loving couple – experience the Jungle NI’s tree top adventure course and zorbing before relaxing in their outdoor hot tubs. You’ll also receive a bottle of bubbly & some chocolates for the ultimate date with a difference!
Guided Canoe Trip on Strangford Lough, Action Outdoors, Co. Down, 12th February
Enjoy a guided paddle with an experienced instructor exploring the tranquil Strangford Lough and its wildlife before stopping on a deserted island for lunch, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Valentines Day Canoe-dle couples retreat, Mobile Team Adventure, Belfast, 12th- 19th February
Take the hassle and stress out of your Valentine’s Day plans with a romantic and relaxing paddle in the picturesque River Lagan complete with a romantic hamper for two – all you have to do is turn up with your other half and enjoy!
Romantic Canoe Rental, Life Adventure Centre, Castlewellan, Co. Down, 11th-14th February
Enjoy a romantic paddle for Valentine's Day with Life’s half day half price canoe rental on the beautiful Castlewellan Lake. This great offer gives you the flexibility to explore the lake in your own time and at your own pace.
Why not turn your Valentines Day out into a weekend away? GASP Surfin’ Dirt combines action with relaxation for the ultimate getaway. Their Surf, Soak and Stay package includes a thrilling mountain boarding session followed by a rejuvenating seaweed bath topped off with an overnight stay in the stunning North Coast. For more great ideas for a weekend away with a difference check out our top tips for the North Coast.
You’ve got the day covered but what about the all important gift? If you’re struggling to think of what to get for Valentine's Day do not fear OutdoorNI.com Gift Experiences mean you no longer have to give into the overpriced chocolates or garage bought carnations. Give your other half an experience they’ll never forget or why not buy two and you can join in on the fun as well?! Here are some of our top Valentines gift ideas:
Hover Crafting and Powerturn Buggying, Foyle Hovercrafting and Leisure
Learn to fly a hovercraft and experience the thrill of blasting over land and water at speed before testing your coordination and nerve driving your very own Powerturn Buggy. A unique and thrilling combination of activities sure to get his heart racing!
Try a Dive in the Sea, Aquaholics Dive Centre
Explore the underwater world with Aquaholics. Forget the Great Barrier Reef, try something completely new and discover a whole other side to the North Coast. This three hour session includes a safety briefing and instruction from a fully qualified PADI instructor.
Learn to Surf, Alive Surf School
Let him hit the surf and hang ten as he learns from the experts how to tackle the waves of the North Coast on a two hour surfing lesson.
Roll N Soak – Zorbing and Hot Tubs, The Jungle NI
The perfect combination of adrenaline and relaxation. Let her experience the thrills of hurtling down the hill in a zorbing ball before unwinding in the Jungle NI’s very own outdoor hot tub.
Strangford Sea Safari, Clearsky Adventure Centre
See Strangford Lough like never before, aboard a high speed 12 seater RIB. Visit the SeaGen, Audleys Castle, whirlpools and maybe even some seals as the knowledgeable skipper tells you all the local folklore
Seaweed Plunge – Coasteering, Far and Wild
Explore the coastline of the North West like never before. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the ocean spray and relax in real seaweed pools on the way!
Now all that’s left to do is enjoy the best Valentine's Day ever!
Great post. Tons of great ideas! Thank you. Perfect for birthday gifts as well. Dani @ ONNO hemp clothing Read more >
The newest member of Outdoor Recreation NI, Sarah joined the marketing team in the Summer of 2011. Despite having studied in St Andrews, Scotland for the past four years she still can't hit a golf ball however enjoys walks in the Mournes and adventures on the water.
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48 hours in the North Coast and Glens of Antrim
When people talk about the highlights of Northern Ireland's North Coast, the Giant's Causeway UNESCO World Heritage site is often top of the list, closely followed by Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge and the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery. However 'Beyond the Causeway' there lies breathtaking landscapes and spectacular walking routes just waiting to be explored!
With stunning cliff top paths and deep, magical glens, this region still remains largely untouched despite boasting some of Northern Ireland's most famous tourist attractions. This 48 hour itinerary showcases some fantastic walking opportunities, great lunch spots and places to visit, satisfying those post-walk indulgences. Click here for a full list of quality walks in The North Coast and Glens of Antrim.
Saturday: Any trip to the North Coast of Northern Ireland should start with a visit to the geological spectacle of the Giant’s Causeway. Here, you can learn about the natural history of this unique area and indeed hear of the myths and legends which this landscape has inspired for hundreds of years.
However, after you have satisfied your explorations of the Causeway and decided on your own theory of how it all came to be, head East towards Benbane Head and enjoy the stunning coastline, hidden bays and rocky outcrops that await you just minutes from the visitor’s centre. This 5 mile cliff top walk boasts idyllic views out to Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre and the Hebridean islands of Islay and Jura with unique opportunities to get up close and personal with fulmars, jackdaws and black guillemots which nest in the sea cliffs of the Causeway Coast.
You will pass Port na Spanaigh, the wreck site of the Girona, one of the ships of the ill-fated Spanish Armada which foundered here in 1588 as well as an old fisherman’s cottage lying in the secluded Port Moon Bay which is currently being converted as basic accommodation for sea kayakers on the North Coast Sea Kayak Trail.
As you approach Dunseverick Castle, the cliffs gradually fall in height and you will finish your walk looking out over open farmland. The Causeway Rambler Bus Service picks up walkers at Dunseverick Castle and brings them back to the Giant’s Causeway throughout the summer months. Click here to read the full route description for the North Antrim Cliff Top Path.
Don’t just take our word for it…
‘The nicest walk/hike I've ever taken. Breathtaking. Dunseverick castle magnificent”. Posted on WalkNI.com by Catherine McConaghy on February 12, 2010
Sunday: Explore ancient woodlands and beautiful waterfalls on this 6 mile circular walk through the magical Glens of Antrim and discover why Glenariff enjoys the title ‘Queen of the Glens’. The Scenic Trail through Glenariff Forest Park, includes some steep sections, especially descending down the Inver River Gorge, however walkers are rewarded with stunning views of the Ess-na-Crub Waterfall with upper sections of the walk boasting jaw dropping vistas out to the Mull of Kintyre.
Many enjoy walking through Glenariff when the bluebells are blooming in the Spring or when the hills come alive with yellow gorse and red fuchsias later in the summer. However, in truth, the Scenic Trail through Glenariff offers pleasant walking through beautiful backdrops all year round. Click here to read the full route description for Glenariff Forest Park Scenic Trail.
Don’t just take our word for it…
‘Walked this trail at the start of November with a group of friends - what a fantastic walk… Surely one of the top forest walks in the Province’ Posted on WalkNI.com by Mark on January 8, 2009
Chris joined Outdoor Recreation NI in 2009 and spends his days organising activity press trips to Northern Ireland. Chris is a keen cyclist and is always keeping his eyes open for the next ‘Big Adventure' in the pipeline! Follow Chris on Twitter - www.twitter.com/ChrisCAAN
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The inaugural OutdoorNI.com Awards in association with Surf Mountain saw 1460 votes cast by the public on OutdoorNI.com’s Facebook Page.
The nominees battled it out throughout November and December to win the coveted titles.
We are now pleased to announce that the wait is finally over and without further ado we give you the 2011OutdoorNI.com Award winners.
Drum roll please…
Best Family Activity Provider – Awarded to the activity provider offering the best family experience
When asked about the secrets behind the success of Alive Surf School, founder Ricky Martin explained, “Our emphasis has always been on teaching through fun. We are passionate people, about surfing and about the North Coast which is finally being recognised as one of the top surfing coastlines in the world.”
Northern Ireland’s longest running surf school provides lessons throughout the year for all ages from 5 years old, hence it truly caters for all the family.
Best Newcomer – Awarded to the best activity provider added to OutdoorNI.com during 2011
This innovative Belfast based tour company has been growing from strength to strength since their launch last summer. After speaking to founder Jerome O’Loughlin, it is not hard to see how they managed to take the crown. “Belfast is an incredible city, steeped in culture with a story to tell on virtually every corner. We love being able to share these stories and our tours seem to be going down well which is great. On our low rider style ‘Californian Cruiser’ bikes we can explore parts of the city which are inaccessible on regular bus and taxi tours which hopefully make the Belfast visitor experience a much more memorable one.”
To find out more about Belfast City Bike Tours check out our blog to find out how the OutdoorNI.com team got on during a recent visit.
Adventure Icon – Awarded to the individual or team from Northern Ireland who achieved something amazing in Northern Ireland’s outdoors
Elaine ‘Shooter’ Alexander
Elaine Alexander affectionately known as Shooter, who last year successfully circumnavigated Ireland by Kayak in a fundraising challenge for the Share Holiday Village in Lisnaskea, won over forty percent of all votes in this much coveted category. Miss Alexander proved she is more than deserving of her NI Adventure Icon status as she described the challenge she undertook, “I knew it was going to be tough but didn’t appreciate how much the trip would take out of me. I shed over a stone and lost count of the number of blisters on my hands during the period I was on the water but it was all worth it for the incredible coastlines and fantastic people I met along the way”
Visit our blog to learn more about Elaine’s epic adventure.
Best New Outdoor Activity Venue / Product – Awarded to the best outdoor activity venue / product opened in 2011
Tollymore National Outdoor Centre
Tollymore National Outdoor Centre was awarded ‘Best New Outdoor Activity Venue’ for their purpose-built mountain bike skills track in County Down. Launched in the summer of 2011 the 1.5km trail has been specifically designed to enable bikers to develop their personal skills and experience. Upon receiving the award Centre Manager, Trevor Fisher explained, “We are delighted to have won the award and would like to say a 'big thank you' to everyone who voted for us. We look forward to welcoming everyone here in 2012 to try out our mountain bike skills course.”
Check out our Blog to find out how OutdoorNI.com got on during a recent visit to the skills course.
Best Thrillseeking Provider – Awarded to the activity provider offering the best thrill seeking experience
The Jungle NI, based in Magherafelt, Co. Londonderry clinched the ‘Best Thrillseeking Provider’ award. Whether it’s hurtling down a hill at high speeds in a zorbing ball, dodging the bullets on a paintballing session or tackling Ireland’s only Tree Top Adventure Course the Jungle has plenty to offer when it comes to thrill seeking adventure. Sarah-Louise Carmichael, from the Jungle NI commented, “We are absolutely delighted to be recognised by the public as the best thrillseeking provider. We were up against some fantastic activity providers who are all doing great things across Northern Ireland so to come out on top is amazing”.
Visit our blog to find out how OutdoorNI.com got on when they experienced one of the Jungle NI’s many thrill seeking activities or check out some of the many activity ideas on offer at the centre that are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
Best Adventure Website / Publication – Awarded to the best Northern Irish Outdoor Adventure Website / Publication
A forum dedicated to bringing anyone with an interest in outdoor activities in Northern Ireland together, NI Wild won the ‘Best Adventure Website/Publication’ award. A truly interactive site, family friendly and free to join there are always plenty of chats and debates happening on all aspects of outdoor life in Northern Ireland. A spokesperson from NI Wild explained, “We want everyone to have a good time and encourage people to use NI-Wild to meet new people and get into the outdoors for some fun. Being a site that is reliant on public interaction we were thrilled to be voted by the public as the best adventure website”.
Best Outdoor Event – Awarded to the best mass participant challenge event in Northern Ireland’s outdoors in 2011
Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive
In its first year the Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive took the coveted prize for ‘Best Outdoor Event in Northern Ireland’ and is fast becoming the most talked about sportive on the Irish cycling calendar. Beverly Pierson from the Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive commented “We had a fantastic event in our first year with over 600 cyclists taking part. We wanted the route to really push cyclists whether they were attempting their first cycle on the 57km route or taking on the 182km Giant Killer option. We are delighted to have won the award and would like to thank everyone who voted, we’re looking forward to welcoming you over the finish line in 2012!”
For more information and to sign up for the 2012 event visit the Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive website.
Nick Stevenson, founder of Surf Mountain extended his congratulations to the award winners stating, “We at Surf Mountain have always prided ourselves on being from Northern Ireland. All our staff are outdoor enthusiasts and so we were delighted to have the opportunity to support fellow adventurers, local events and progressive outdoor providers. All the category winners and indeed nominees should be incredibly proud of their achievements this year.”
OutdoorNI.com would like to extend a massive congratulations to everyone who won and a big thank you to all those who took the time to vote. We are looking forward to an even bigger and better OutdoorNI.com Awards in 2012. Who knows, we may even have a red carpet…
The newest member of Outdoor Recreation NI, Sarah joined the marketing team in the Summer of 2011. Despite having studied in St Andrews, Scotland for the past four years she still can't hit a golf ball however enjoys walks in the Mournes and adventures on the water.
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The Sperrins stretch along the border of counties Tyrone and Derry and can best be described as wild, untouched and beautiful. Spanning 40 miles, the Sperrins mountain range is the largest in Ireland and walkers can expect undulating hills covered in heather, quiet valleys and boggy uplands literally teeming with wildlife.
This 48 hour itinerary showcases great walking, fantastic food and incredible scenery - everything that makes the Sperrin Mountains so special. Click here for a Full List of Walks in The Sperrins.
Friday Night: Head into the village of Draperstown and sample the sumptuous menu at The Apparo. This cosy boutique Hotel and Restaurant offers an exclusive dining experience using high quality, fresh local produce without breaking the bank.
Saturday: Robber's Table - Kick off with an excellent 9 mile circular walk opening up views of the Bluestack and High Sperrin Mountain ranges with a landscape criss-crossed with hedgerows and miles of old stone walls. Many tales are told of highwaymen who rode the post roads across the Sperrins and divided their spoils on the ridge of ‘Robber’s Table’. Full walk details here - www.walkni.com/Walk.aspx?ID=116
Go Green: The Deli on the Green in Moygashel serves the freshest foods, sourced from a selection of local artisan producers. There is always a welcoming atmosphere here and you can get breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as an Early Bird special.
Splash Out: The Carleton Restaurant at the Corick House Hotel epitomises elegant dining. There is a fantastic interior superbly decorated with sparkling chandeliers and guests are served the finest of local produced cuisine from an award winning Head Chef.
Sunday: Banagher Glen - Located in the north Sperrins, this is one of the largest and least disturbed stretches of old semi-natural woodland in Northern Ireland. Twisted oaks cling precariously to the steep cliffs above the Glenedra and Altnaheglish rivers and there is a very pleasant 2 mile walk on surfaced paths offering stunning views of this wonderful region. Legend tells that one of the pools in Banagher Glen is home to the last snake in Ireland. St Patrick was unable to drive this giant serpent out of the country so instead trapped it forever at this site. Full walk details here - www.walkni.com/Walk.aspx?ID=169
Accommodation: Click here for details of some walker-friendly accommodation options in the Sperrin Mountains or contact Omagh Tourist Information Centre on 028 8224 7831.
Maps: Sperrins Activity Map from the Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland or purchase on the OSNI Website.
Kudos to you! I hadn't thohgut of that! Read more >
Chris joined Outdoor Recreation NI in 2009 and spends his days organising activity press trips to Northern Ireland. Chris is a keen cyclist and is always keeping his eyes open for the next ‘Big Adventure' in the pipeline! Follow Chris on Twitter - www.twitter.com/ChrisCAAN
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