Going Green in Ireland

Press Release

Adventure Company, Outdoors Ireland, along with other sixty tourism businesses in Kerry, have just become members of the Green Tourism Business Scheme.

Businesses opting to join Green Tourism are assessed against a rigorous set of criteria, covering a range of areas, like energy and water efficiency, waste management, biodiversity and more. Those businesses that meet the required standard, receive a Bronze, Silver or Gold award based on their level of achievement. The current network of members is comprised of a wide range of business types, including accommodation providers, visitor attractions and corporate offices.

‘We're part of a brand-new pilot project and are now preparing for our green inspection, at the beginning of June. We're hoping to be the first adventure company in Ireland to achieve the silver or gold award. That means a lot of hard work and innovative thinking between now and June’ says Nathan Kingerlee of Outdoors Ireland. ‘Becoming a green, environmentally friendly, outdoor adventure company is becoming increasingly important; to preserve the pristine landscape we work in, to satisfy any environmental concerns of our customers and to play our part in demonstrating how it's possible to lessen our impact on the mountains and lakes of Ireland.’

Mary Stack, Failte Ireland Environmental Officer, says 'Outdoors Ireland is one of the 60 tourism businesses taking part in a flagship pilot project run by Fáilte Ireland and South Kerry Development Partnership to ‘green’ tourism businesses in South Kerry. The project, which was launched in December 2009 seeks to bring 60 tourism businesses through environmental training and mentoring, and to achieve accreditation to the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Businesses can achieve either bronze, silver or gold level accreditation under the scheme, depending on the level of environmental best practice which has been implemented in each business.’

Outdoors Ireland are running a competition looking for ‘green’ ideas to implement into their adventure trips. ‘We would love to hear people’s ideas and suggestions as to what we can to become greener and more environmentally friendly’ states Kingerlee. To enter the competition and suggest ideas email info@outdoorsireland.com or click here.

Press Release Ends

For more details or images contact:
info@outdoorsireland.com
+353 (0) 86 860 45 63

Singles Adventure Weekend in Kerry

We're looking for brave men to take part in our next Singles Adventure Weekend, on Sat 24th & Sun 25th April!
Here's some feedback from our last Singles Weekend:

‘I had such a magical and wonderful time and I thank you sincerely. To feel the snow falling on my face and to see the sun shining over Killarney was only beautiful. The image will be with me forever. I felt like I was on holidays.... in Costa del Kerry!’

‘Had a brilliant weekend, really enjoyed Sunday the kayaking and loved the rock climbing. Would definitely recommend the whole weekend to anyone. Great fun and stunning scenery in Killarney.’

‘I had a fantastic time on the Singles Adventure Weekend. The combination of activities and weather was the best way, I can see, of spending the weekend. I had no idea what it would be like or who I might meet. I am very happy to say that the organization by Nathan and his team was nothing short of amazing. I would recommend to anyone to do this weekend away. I myself will be signing up for a few of their more concentrated courses of kayaking and rock climbing. Although this was a singles weekend, it felt more like it was a gathering of like-minded people who like the outdoors and wanted to spend it with others who also like the outdoors. Thank a million for the chance to explore Ireland and discover some new country-side and people!’
Roderick

‘I had a really great weekend, full of activities and great fun. I went on my own, which made it easier to mix with the group and meet lots of nice people, even some cute guys. We were really lucky and had amazing weather, Killarney looked fantastic. I'd recommend it to any single people who want a great weekend away that's a bit different.’

For Singles Adventure Weekend Details Click Here

Adventure Trips in Killarney

Staff from Aghadoe Hostel & Rossarney House B&B taking a break half-way up Carrauntoohil


Ciaran from Killarney Park Hotel taking shelter from the sun!

Ciaran & Eileen from Killarney Park Hotel

Camilla, Regina & Oonagh from Aghadoe Hostel & Rossarney House B&B

Kerry Adventure Company, Outdoors Ireland, were last week running a series of complimentary adventure trips for the staff of local hotels, guesthouses and hostels in an effort to promote adventure tourism for the coming season. Staff have been out kayaking on the Lakes of Killarney and climbing Carrauntoohil; with more kayaking and rock climbing still to come.

‘We’re trying to show as many people as possible, who work in the tourist trade, some of the opportunities available to Kerry visitors’ explains Nathan Kingerlee of Outdoors Ireland. ‘Whatever the weather, with the right equipment, there’s so many opportunities for adventure and excitement, from kayaking, to rock climbing to mountaineering.’

So far staff have taken part from the Lake Hotel, Aghadoe Hostel, Rossarney House, Killarney Park Hotel, Aghadoe Heights Hotel and The Moorings, in Portmagee.

‘We’ve had a great response’ says Kingerlee. ‘Feedback seems to be that a lot of people just don’t realise how amazing Kerry is for adventure sports, from gentle relaxing trips for beginners all the way up to extreme adrenaline! What we have here is as good as anything in Scotland or New Zealand and apart from the adventure trips and training courses we offer, there is so much more, from scuba diving, to mountain biking to horse riding and boat trips, plus of course the spectacular way-marked Kerry Way that stretches for 215km around the Iveragh peninsula.’

'Climbing Carrauntoohil was a brilliant experince. I have never seen Kerry from such an exceptional view.' Oonagh Neilan, from Rossarney House B&B.

'Thanks for the most amazing hike up Carrauntoohill on the 24th March, wouldn't have done it without you and Cara!! It was a wonder full experience and you were great support and very patience with us, thanks again' Maureen O Sullivan

Climbing for Girls

On Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd May we're running two days of rock climbing and abseiling on the sandstone cliffs in the Gap of Dunloe. These days are for women only!

Learn to rock climb and abseil at your own pace, doing as much or as little as you like, with friendly support, qualified instructors and no pressure!

With small groups and all equipment provided, book for a half-day, a full-day or two days of fun, excitement and challenge.

There will be a mixture of easy rock climbs for anyone worried about their ability and strength, and harder rock climbs for anyone looking to push themselves.

Did you know that proper climbing is actually more about technique, balance and using your legs; rather than strength and pulling yourself up!?

Price:
€50 per person, per half-day
€75 per person, per full-day
€120 per person, per two days

Beginners Welcome
Suitable For All Abilities
All Equipment Provided
Qualified Instructors

For Bookings Contact:
info@outdoorsireland.com
+353 (0) 86 860 45 63

Full Moon Kayak Trip

Discover the Lakes of Killarney by moonlight, as you use the full moon to kayak along dark wooded shores and among silent islands. Explore the limestone caves from your kayak by torch light. Land on the ancient, mystic ruins of Innisfallen Abbey for fresh coffee, while you savour the breathtaking sight of Ross Castle illuminated by moonlight.

Suitable For All Abilities
All Equipment Provided
Qualified Guides

Price: €75 per person

Dates:
Saturday 1st May
Saturday 29th May
Meet @ 10pm
Kayak 1030pm - 130am

For Bookings Contact:
info@outdoorsireland.com
+353 (0) 86 860 45 63

Torc Dawn Hike

Hike to the summit of Torc Mountain as dawn creeps into the fresh sky. Savour sunrise over Killarney National Park, spread out far below. If it's a misty morning enjoy the excitement of swirling cloud, rays of sunlight and the occasional treat of views revealed through a friendly parting in the clouds. Listen to the music of the dawn chorus and local wildlife awakening. Then return to Killarney for a delicious, hearty breakfast at Scotts Hotel.

Beginners Welcome
Suitable For All Abilities
Hiking Boots Provided
Qualified Guides

Price: €65 per person, including breakfast

Dates:
Sunday 4th April
Wednesday 7th April
Meet @ 430am
Hike 5am - 8am
Finish & Breakfast @ 830am

For Bookings Contact:
info@outdoorsireland.com
+353 (0) 86 860 45 63

BOBI

I was at a trade show last week in London, called Best of Britain and Ireland, or BOBI. I met some brilliant people over there, both Tourism Ireland staff working in Britain and Irish tourism businesses showcasing their products; from Rathbaun Farm to Killarney Jaunting Cars to Railtours Ireland. Here's two video clips I shot over the four days:

Ireland South West

Kerry Adventure Trips

To promote adventure tourism in Killarney and Kerry this spring and summer we are running some complimentary adventure trips specifically for hotel, guesthouse and hostel staff, from Sunday 21st to Wednesday 24th March.

We offer year round trips for tourists of all abilities, from beginner upwards, specializing in Kayak Trips on the Lakes of Killarney, Rock Climbing & Abseiling in the Gap of Dunloe and Guided Carrauntoohil Ascents. We provide all equipment for tourists and also offer complimentary transfers in the Killarney area.

The following trips are available free of charge to hotel, guesthouse and hostel staff, both to promote adventure tourism for the coming year, and also as a thank you for the customers we were sent over the past year.

Sunday 21st March
Guided Carrauntoohil Ascent
9am – 5pm

Monday 22nd March
Kayak Trip on the Lakes of Killarney
10am – 1pm
2pm – 5pm
6pm – 9pm

Tuesday 23rd March
Rock Climbing in the Gap of Dunloe
10am – 1pm
2pm – 5pm
6pm – 9pm

Wednesday 24th March
Guided Carrauntoohil Ascent
9am – 5pm

Pre-Booking Essential
For Details Contact Nathan:
info@outdoorsireland.com
+353 (0) 86 860 45 63.

Face Your Fear!

Liz and John, from Radio Kerry's 'Face Your Fear Of Heights' this morning in the Gap of Dunloe. Just after completing the first part of their challenge; rock climbing and belaying on a 15 metre cliff.
'Challenge one complete and I feel great for finally getting to the top of a rock climb, adrenaline, jokes and two competent people managing the rope works for me.' Liz

'What a way to spend the morning, it felt great to be so high up and to not be too afraid to take in the view, great trust in my two rope handlers and thanks for the support.' John