We are experiencing a summer of really exciting sport across Europe this year, from the Euros football tournament to Wimbledon tennis; Tour de France to the Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games in Paris.
If all of this has inspired you to get active yourself, then we have several suggestions for how to increase your fitness levels during your summer stay at Roundwood House.
Hiking and walking
Roundwood House is close to the beautiful Slieve Bloom mountains, which are ideal for many physical activities this summer.
Walking and hiking is a great place to start, as it is free, does not require much specialist kit and there are many different routes to suit varying levels of fitness and experience. There are 16 looped routes with online maps available to download.
These take in several different landscapes and views around the mountains, including woodlands, valleys, waterfalls and old settlement ruins.
Looped walks allow you to start and finish in the same place, making it easier to plan your travel there and find your way back home. Take a picnic and make a day of it.
Mountain biking
For a different way to explore the Slieve Bloom mountains, why not go by bike?
Mountain biking offers a lively, adrenaline-filled day out, with plenty of dedicated trails and places to explore on two wheels. Forest paths, rolling hills and winding country roads provide fantastic variety and plenty of challenges for biking fans of all experience levels.
Choose the right route for you from the online trail maps.
For more experienced mountain bikers, check out the new bike trails at Kinnitty and Baunreagh – all 35km of them!
You can bring your own bikes, or hire them locally at the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Centre in Kinnitty.
Road cycling
Another way to take inspiration from the Tour de France and get fit by bike this summer is to explore the local road network by bicycle.
There are many safe cycling trails around, with countless places to travel between for a day out filled with fitness and local fun. Cycle to the nearby market town of Mountrath to pick up some local produce.
Or travel further afield to Castletown to see the historical architecture. Kinnitty Castle is another great local attraction to explore.
Horse riding
If you missed out on tickets to the dressage or showjumping at the Paris Olympics this month, console yourself with a peaceful horse ride in the Slieve Bloom Mountains.
You can take a horse out alone or join a group for instruction as you go.
Either way, you will enjoy stunning views from your elevated position and enjoy the peaceful countryside as you gently trot along, or urge your horse into a canter on the flatter, safer paths.
Swimming
If you fancy a dip during your time at Roundwood House, there are several swimming pools and sports centres within easy driving or public transport distance, including Portlaoise Leisure Centre, Portarlington Leisure Centre or Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool.
If wild swimming is more your thing, check out details of suitable spots online, including the village of Castleton on the banks of the River Nore, Glenbarrow Waterfall Loop at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and Catholes Falls in Ballyhuppahane.
Stay safe in the water and never go wild swimming on your own.
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