Summer Forests
Forests are a lifeline. Super fertile and vital to our eco-system, they flourish under the watchful eye of Mother Nature and reward us in so many ways when they’re managed sustainably. Here are 7 to explore.
Forests purify the air we breathe, provide safe habitats for all manner of wildlife and animals, are part of the livelihoods of millions of people around the world, cushion climate change and connect us to the wondrous beauty of the great outdoors.
Looking for some forest inspiration?
Whether for a visit in person, or simply to admire from afar, here are seven fab forests we’d love to explore…
1>> Glendalough, Co Wicklow
This glacial valley in Co Wicklow is a popular destination for walkers with the beauty of the natural world matched by the treasures of the Early Medieval monastic settlement founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. One of the most spectacular forest hikes is along the Green Road by the lower lake with majestic oak trees, willow, alder and sparkling silver birch sharing space along the valley floor and the slopes of the trail. The forest is remerging having been stripped of trees for commerce up to the 19th century. The loop trail then takes you along the boardwalk to explore the wetland wildlife, and beyond to a plantation of first and spruces and the stunning Poulanass waterfall. The views of the Glendalough Valley are spectacular.
2>> The New Forest, England
You only have to head to the south coast of England to immerse yourself in The New Forest – voted the number one national park in Europe in the 2022 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Destinations. Located conveniently close to the coast dotted with sandy beaches, you can explore the woods, heathlands, rivers and wildflower meadows by foot or bike, with more than 100 miles of cycle paths.
Teeming with ponies roaming freely among the forest, getting into the saddle and horse riding is one of the biggest attractions – but with a variety of water sports, golfing, fishing and nature based activities too, there’s something for everyone.
3>> Tahoe National Forest, California, USA
A wilderness made up of Sugar pines, Douglas first and Ponderosa pines to name but a few, the Tahoe National Forest is northwest of Lake Tahoe and soars above the lake’s west shore, Emerald Bay.
Mind-blowingly beautiful and a National Natural Landmark, this freshwater lake borders California and Nevada and the best way to admire the vista is from Inspiration Point, which sits 183-metres above the water. Options include exploring the hiking trails, and there’s even the opportunity to camp among the tall pines (there are designated campgrounds). Or you can always take to the road and journey through the forest through one of the highways.
4>> Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Situated between the majestic Tilarán and Guanacaste mountain ranges, the Arenal Volcano is active – so here’s your chance to explore the Costa Rican rainforest as well as trekking through volcanic trails and lava beds.
Cited as an ecological paradise, Arenal Volcano National Park off ers waterfalls, fascinating wildlife including white faced monkeys and keel-billed toucans, hot springs and the chance to hike the Cerro Chato, an extinct volcano with the promise of a topaz coloured lake when you’ve conquered its peak.
Not sure where to start? Adventure travel company Flash Pack (flashpack.com) specialise in tailored trips to Costa Rica and do all the hard work for you.
5>> Gougane Barra Forest Park, Co. Cork
This beautiful forest west of Macroom in Co Cork is one of Ireland's wildest landscapes and a beautiful tranquil haven for quiet ambling and picnics. Historic Gougane Barra is where St Finbarr, Cork’s patron saint, founded his monastery in the 6th century. When you enter the park you will see the lake and monastery on its tiny island. There are some six walking trails, the Slí Dhoire na Coise by the River Lee is an easy walk and it takes you to the lakeshore. Slí na Sléibhe is a more strenuous 2.5km hike, but the effort is worth it with a stunning vista over the trees from the higher vantage point.
6>> El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico
Tropical rainforests can be a real challenge, but with family-friendly trails at a little under 1km long, or action packed adventure if you’re after greater rewards, the El Yunque National Forest is a goldmine for anyone who wants to get to the heart of a diverse ecosystem.
Home to hundreds of rare plant and animal species, including Puerto Rico’s coqui frog – with special toe pads instead of webbed feet to climb and cling to trees and leaves – ziplining through the green canopies is ranked as one of the highlights, not to mention cooling off in the countless waterfalls.
7>> Sagano Bamboo Forest, Japan
A stunning retreat on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan’s Sagano Bamboo Forest is a haven for appreciating the beauty of bamboo – a place that takes you to another world where bamboo stalks tower above you, and sunlight streams through with the soothing sound of swaying stalks whispering in the wind.
A densely packed grove with paths and trails, you can also explore the surrounding tree-covered hills and mountains, shrines, historic temples, zen gardens and photogenic tea fields.