HER Wicklow Her Outdoors Week returns to Wicklow from August 14th to 20th, offering an abundance of thrilling events to celebrate and inspire women in outdoor activities. The week-long extravaganza aims to highlight the diverse opportunities available for females to engage in outdoor physical activity, encouraging them to try new experiences and enjoy the benefits of being in nature.
This year is set to be the biggest year yet! We have a vast array of activities covering land, sea, and…..THE AIR!!! From cycling the Wicklow mountains to kayaking the picturesque Blessington Lakes and gliding over the breathtaking landscapes, there is truly something for everyone!
Countdown to Her Wicklow, Her Outdoors
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Saturday, August 19th
Target audience: Women 18+
Meeting Point: Boat house , New Court Bray.
Two sessions:
Why not try something new… let’s give rowing a go!
Enjoy a leisurely row with volunteers from Bray Rowing Club. This 1 hour session will first run through on-land demonstration before entering the boat to experience Bray from a different perspective.
Suitable for beginners
Wear comfortable clothing and wet shoes, as up to knees might get wet. Gloves optional and bring some water.
Target audience: This event is aimed for women aged 16+
This event will start at 10am sharp. Please arrive 15 minutes early to get fitted for equipment.
In conjunction with Poulaphouca Paddlers, we are delighted to have you join us for our Paddle to Zen: Women’s Kayak & Yoga at Blessington Lakes.
Paddle your way around the Blessington Lakes followed by a relaxing yoga session that promotes physical well-being. Don’t worry if you’re new to either activity, our instructors will provide guidance and support throughout. Join us for this unique event, where you can unwind, recharge, and find balance in a relaxed and friendly environment.
No wetsuits required. All other equipment : buoyancy aid, helmet and paddle supplied.
Target Audience: This event is for women aged 18+
Date and time: Sat, 19 Aug 2023 10:00 – 13:00
Location: Ballymoyle Forest Kilpatrick Arklow
*Bring your own mountain bike and helmet.
*Please make sure your brakes are in working order
This introduction to mountain biking programme is aimed at beginner riders, who may or may not have some experience riding off-road. You’ll learn and practice the fundamental skills and techniques of mountain biking enabling you to hit the trails with confidence. We will cover aspects such as body positioning, braking, pressure control, turning/cornering, uneven/rooty/rocky terrain and personalised bike set-up which will allow you to fully enjoy the mountain biking experience. An experienced coach is on-hand to guide you and answer all questions from gear recommendations to dealing with nerves and fear.
Details:
- Date: Saturday 19th August
- Time: 10am
- Target audience: 5-12 year olds
- Programme Outcome: To learn to cycle by learning balance, braking, turning etc.
This Learn to Cycle class is for children who cannot cycle without stabilisers.
Our Learn to Cycle class is an exciting and engaging program designed to teach children the fundamentals of cycling in a safe and supportive environment. Aimed at children aged 5-12 years old, our class is perfect for beginners who are eager to hop on a bike and start pedaling.
Led by experienced instructors, our Learn to Cycle class focuses on building essential skills to help children become confident and proficient cyclists. The class starts with basic bike handling skills, including balance, steering, and stopping.
Parent/Carer must stay to support the child and learn skills for practice after the session.
Own bike and helmet are required. Helmets must be worn during the programme, so practice at home might be needed.
This event has been cancelled due to extreme weather conditions.
Target audience: This event is aimed at women aged 16+
Venue: Bray Sailing Club
In conjunction with Bray Sailing Club, we are delighted to have you join us for our Women Try Sailing in Bray.
Led by experienced instructors from Bray Sailing Club, this programme provides a safe and supportive environment for women of all skill levels to learn and grow. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some prior sailing experience, our friendly instructors will guide you through the fundamental techniques, terminology, and maneuvers essential for sailing success.
No wetsuits required. Wear comfortable active clothing (ideally made from man-made materials) that you don’t mind getting wet !! Bring a towel and a spare change of clothes.
What is Avondale Forest parkrun?
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!
When is it?
Every Saturday at 9:30am.
Where is it?
The event takes place at Avondale House & Forest Park Avondale, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be?
We all take part for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!
Avondale Forest parkrun needs you!
It is entirely organised by volunteers – email avondaleforest@parkrun.com to help.
What is Russborough parkrun?
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!
When is it?
Every Saturday at 9:30am.
Where is it?
The event takes place at Russborough House & Parklands, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be?
We all take part for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!
Russborough parkrun needs you!
It is entirely organised by volunteers – email russborough@parkrun.com to help.
Please note this event is being run by Wicklow Archers Club, we do not monitor the booking system. If you would like to book onto this course please contact pro@wicklowarchers.org
Anyone is welcome to come along and take part. The event cost €10 for one hour of archery, led by some of the club’s most senior archers. This will be deducted from the cost of a beginner’s course for anyone who’s interested in signing up to the club after the event.
As part of Her Outdoors Week, Orienteering Ireland, in conjunction with Wicklow Sports and Recreational Partnership, are hosting an orienteering activity in Belmont Demesne, Co.Wicklow, for women, and girls, (accompanying children welcome). Learn the basic skills of the sport, get to complete a course around beautiful Belmont Demesne, get to use the MapRun orienteering app, and have a go at the orienteering maze. A stepping stone to further opportunities in the outdoors.
Sunday, August 20th
Target Audience: This event is for women aged 18+
Two sessions:
Date and time: Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00 – 13:00 Book Here
Date and time: Sun, 20 Aug 2023 14:30 – 17:30 Book Here
Location: Killiney Hill Carpark, Killiney Hill Road Dublin
Women Rock Warriors are excited to offer two outdoor rock climbing sessions in Dalkey Quarry with climbing coach Nastia. In an intimate circle of 6 women you’ll get the chance to climb some fun routes and also learn some bits and bobs along the way. Open to all levels, no experience necessary. All equipment provided. Do not be intimidated to come on your own – many of Women Rock Warrior participants have joined solo and left the day with at least one new friends.
Target audience: This event is aimed at women aged 14+
Date and time: Sun, 20 Aug 2023 11:00 – 12:00
Location: Russelstown Greenway Carpark Russelstown
Join us for a Women’s Social Canoe around the Blessington Lakes.
Canoeing is a low-impact activity that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. You will be surrounded with the idyllic Blessington Lake surroundings and guaranteed to have a great time!
No wetsuits required. All other equipment : buoyancy aid, helmet and paddle supplied
This event will start at 11am sharp. Please arrive 15 minutes early to get fitted for equipment.
What is Bray junior parkrun?
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds). Nearby Saturday parkrun events can be found here.
When is it?
It is held every Sunday at 9:30am.
Where is it?
The event takes place in the People’s park, Lower Dargle Road, Bray. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be?
The aim is to have fun. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!
What is Arklow Duck Pond junior parkrun?
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds). Nearby Saturday parkrun events can be found here.
When is it?
It is held every Sunday at 9:30am.
Where is it?
The event takes place at Arklow Duck Pond, Seaview Avenue, Arklow, Co Wicklow, Y14X753. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
Monday, August 21st
Target audience: This event is open to women aged 16+
Beach Volleyball is back by popular demand. This event last year was one of our first events to sell out! Get down to Brittas Bay Beach and give beach volleyball a go!
Volleyball Ireland coaches will introduce you to the basics of this sport, so no previous volleyball experience is required. Stay active and enjoy the beach, while meeting new people. Pre-registration is essential as spaces are limited.
This event will start at 6:30 sharp.
Book Women Try Beach Volleyball Here
Please note although this event is free, we have limited space for participants. We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
By responsibly booking and promptly canceling if needed, you actively contribute to our goal of empowering women in outdoor activities. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Past Events
Saturday, August 12th
HER Outdoors Week Adventure Festival
We are kicking off HER Outdoors Week this year with the first ever HER Outdoors Week Adventure Festival at CP Adventure in Russborough House, Wicklow on Saturday August 12th from 10am – 4pm! Join us for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure at the breathtaking Russborough House in Blessington, Wicklow!
Activities take place right throughout the day with scheduled sessions time slots available at 10am and at 1pm for you to enjoy some exciting activities at CP Adventure for the amazing price of €15 per person. From Ziplining to Archery and Bush Craft to Kayaking we have a great line up of both land and water activities available to those taking part. Each session slot includes three activities to try – check out the full details in the ticket options. CP Adventure activities are suitable for both children (6+) and adults so we are encouraging you to join the community of women and girls taking part on the day!
Monday, August 14th
Calling all Greystone enthusiasts! We are hosting a Her Outdoors Breakfast Launch Party on Greystones South Beach on Monday morning from 7:30AM and we want you to join us. Set your alarms, grab a mate and meet us at the beach!!
We will be running Sunrise Swim at 7:30AM and then at 8AM Volleyball Ireland will be joining us to run a Beach Volleyball taster session. ALL are welcome! What a great way to shake off the Monday blues and get ready for an action-packed week!! We’re are also excited to share that Ireland AM TV weatherman Deric Hartigan will be broadcasting live from the beach during the morning event.
Come on down, grab a mate and please join us! Your presence will add to the energy and excitement of the occasion, and we would be delighted if you could join us for this special launch party!!
Target Audience: Everyone
Date and time: Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:30 – 20:00
Location: Greystones Marina
Join us for our Marina Skate Party at Greystones Marina! This exciting event, open to women of all ages and abilities, invites you for a fun-filled evening on wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, this event promises an unforgettable experience of joy, camaraderie, and outdoor adventure. The amazing roller skate queen Grainne Binns will be there showcasing her amazing roller skating moves.
Please note you must have use of your own skates and helmets for this event.
FYI our Funky Outdoor Disco Yoga will be happening at the same time so if you’re feeling like taking party bring a mat!
Date and time: Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:30 – 20:00
Location: Greystones Marina
Target audience: Groovy People
Please bring your own matt. There will not be any available to rent on the night.
Funky Disco Yoga is a unique yoga class inspired by those who simply want fitness to be fun and uplifting! It’s for disco lovers, yoga aficionados and first timers looking for a new way to unwind and socialise!
Tuesday, August 15th
Target Audience: Women Aged 18+
This is a two-part adventure where you’ll gain valuable insights and hit the trails with like-minded enthusiasts.
On Tuesday, you are invited to join She Summits founder Alicia Christofi-Walshe for a webinar on her journey into trail and mountain running and advice on how to get started. Learn about gear, technique, training tips, and more, as you embark on your own trail running journey.
On Saturday, join Alicia in person for a beginner-level trail run on the scenic trails of Bray. Put your newly acquired knowledge into action as you explore the local trails, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This meet-up offers the perfect opportunity to connect with Alicia and fellow trail running enthusiasts, share experiences, and enjoy a rewarding outdoor adventure together.
Please note: Space is limited for the in-person trail run, so be sure to register early to secure your spot.
Book onto the webinar and meet-up here
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
Target Audience: Everyone
Route: Easy
Meeting point: The Murrough Car Park
Walking leader: Mel Rawl
Date and time: Tue, 15 Aug 2023 19:00 – 20:00
Lace up your walking shoes and get ready for a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Murrough in a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow women, engage in meaningful conversations, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing walk or a chance to socialise this event is the perfect opportunity to connect, chat, and create lasting friendships in a relaxed environment.
Target Audience: Women aged 14+ (to 80+!) Anyone can do it. Young and not so young, you don’t need to be super fit. What you do need is a desire to fly.
There will be two sessions:
Date and time: Tue, 15 Aug 2023 9:30AM
Date and time: Tue, 15 Aug 2023 2:00PM
Location: Leinster Gliding Club
Cost: The event has been subsidised by Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership. The cost of the event is €35.
Due to an overwhelming number of responses we have closed the form to the public for expression of interest for this programme.
Fulfil your piloting dreams by learning to fly high-performance gliders. Would you like the challenge of flying an aircraft that will give you the chance to explore the natural and free energy of the atmosphere to stay aloft for hours without an engine?
Flying a glider gives you this opportunity. The sleek shape slides effortlessly through the air allowing the pilot to seek out rising pillars of warm air in which to soar like an eagle. Even without rising air currents gliders, with their long wings and shallow glide angles can travel many miles before touching down back at their point of departure.
At this time, we are pleased to announce that we are accepting expressions of interest for our upcoming event. Due to limited space availability, we urge interested individuals to submit their expressions of interest promptly. The allocation of spaces will be carried out on a case-by-case basis, ensuring fair consideration for each applicant. We encourage all those interested to express their interest as soon as possible to secure a chance to participate in this exclusive event. Priority will be given to applicants with a genuine interest in pursuing the sport.
If you would like to book a flight directly with Leinster Gliding Club visit https://leinsterglidingcentre.ie/try-gliding/
Target Audience: Teenage girls aged 11+ *Teenagers with additional needs will be catered for.
Date and time: Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:00 – 13:00
Cost: The event has been subsidised by Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership. The cost of the event is €20.
The facilities at Spruce Lodge include a mounting ramp to wheelchair specifics to enable an inclusive programme for this taster session.
Please note a maximum weight of 73kg for the this event.
Book onto Horse Riding or Vaulting/Pony Care Camp for Teens Here
Date and time: Tue, 15 Aug 2023 09:30 – 15:00
Location: Brockagh Lane Brockagh Lane Knockfin
HER Outdoors Week from August 14th-20th is an opportunity to reignite and reintroduce females to the outdoors. Mountaineering Ireland are offering ALL females of all levels of experience the opportunity to escape to the outdoors and try something new. This week is all about building your confidence on the hills!
Each activity will be run by a qualified instructor. This is a great opportunity for all women interested in hillwalking to link in with peers and instructors in your area and develop your skills!
This Introduction to Navigation activity will be based in Wicklow, meeting in Laragh, at the carpark on Brockagh Lane.
This event will start at 9.30am and will finish by approximately 3pm.
Wednesday, August 16th
**Please note that in the event of fabulous weather and there are no waves, this event will be changed to Stand Up Paddleboarding.**
Target audience: Women and girls aged 8+
Date and time: Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:30 – 20:00
Venue: Brittas Bay Beach
Price: €15
There really is nothing quite like catching that very first wave!
The combination of adrenaline, idyllic Wicklow surroundings and the satisfaction of catching your first few waves ensures that you’ll have an unforgettable experience with Brittas Bay Surf School on the East Coast of Ireland!
First time surfers can expect to learn the easiest and correct methods of standing up on a surfboard, basic surfing techniques, safe board handling in the water, and general water safety awareness – essential knowledge and skills for taking your personal surfing to the next level.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early. Please note the RRP of this event is €45 and this has been subsidised by Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership. We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
Date and time: Wed, 16 Aug 2023 10:00 – 16:00
Location: Glendalough Visitor Centre Derrybawn A98 HC80 Glendalough
Each activity will be run by a qualified instructor. This is a great opportunity for all women interested in hillwalking to link in with peers and instructors in your area and develop your skills!
This Environmental Walk will be based in Wicklow, meeting at the Glendalough Visitor Centre (bring €4 for the carpark).
This event will start at 10am and will finish by approximately 4pm.
Target Audience: This programme is aimed at women aged 18+ years.
Date and time: Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:00 – 08:00
Location:Wicklow Town
To celebrate #HerOutdoorsWeek, Active Wicklow are hosting a Her Wicklow, Her Outdoors Intro to Sea Swimming Taster at Wicklow Harbour. The event is perfect for beginners or those looking to gain more confidence in the sea.
In this taster session your Instructor will be covering basic safety skills like floating and treading water for open water swimming, breathing techniques to get the face in the water and front crawl basics to get you started putting a few strokes together in the sea. Perfect for those dippers wanting to start swimming and for nervous swimmers who are having difficulties with breathing with the face in the water. The session is very focused on safety and is delivered at a relaxed and easy going pace.
Book onto Intro to Sea Swimming Wicklow Here
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
By responsibly booking and promptly cancelling if needed, you actively contribute to our goal of empowering women in outdoor activities. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Target Audience: This programme is aimed at women aged 18+ years.
Date and time: Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:45 – 19:45
Location: Wicklow Town
To celebrate #HerOutdoorsWeek, Active Wicklow are hosting a Her Wicklow, Her Outdoors Intro to Sea Swimming Taster at Wicklow Harbour. The event is perfect for beginners or those looking to gain more confidence in the sea.
In this taster session your Instructor will be covering basic safety skills like floating and treading water for open water swimming, breathing techniques to get the face in the water and front crawl basics to get you started putting a few strokes together in the sea. Perfect for those dippers wanting to start swimming and for nervous swimmers who are having difficulties with breathing with the face in the water. The session is very focused on safety and is delivered at a relaxed and easy going pace.
Book onto Intro to Sea Swimming Wicklow Here
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
By responsibly booking and promptly cancelling if needed, you actively contribute to our goal of empowering women in outdoor activities. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Thursday, August 17th
Target Audience: Women aged 16+
Route Rating: Moderate
Meeting Point: Drumgoff Car Park
The hike is 5 hours in duration included breaks.
Meeting at 2pm in Drumgoff recreation and the hike starts at 2.30pm.
From there, The hike will go through a forestry trail which is magical to visit as you will be diving into a scenery of green vegetation. Then, You will be guided to Kelly’s Lough which is a Corrie Lake located at the top of a hanging valley just above the glacial valley of Glenmalure where we will have lunch.
After lunch, You will be brought to a steep section above the lake to Carrawaystick where a plane crashed in 1991. From there, you will be brought back to the car park.
During the hike, the Qualified Mountaineering Ireland Instructor will guide and explain the origin of the peat and bogs in Ireland, about the last ice ages, the fauna and flora of the area.
The hike will finish in Glenmalure where hikers are encouraged to go for refreshments after.
Target Audience: Everyone
Date and time: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 19:00 – 20:00
Meeting point: Bandstand Bray
Walking leader: Lisa Redmond
Grade: Moderate
Length: 5.5 km
Walkers will enjoy the scenic coastal view from Bray Head. At the top of Bray Head, there is a stone cross which was placed there in 1950 during the Holy Year. From here you get a magnificent panoramic vista of Bray, North East Wicklow and Dublin Bay. You can also see some of Bray Head’s neighbouring mountains, the Great and Little Sugar Loaf and Carrickgollogan, locally known as Kathy Gallagher.
Friday, August 18th
Target Audience: Everyone
Meeting point: The Railway Car Park Tinahely at 9.50am
Walking leader: Bruce Copeland
This walk takes in elements of the Tinahely Railway Walk, The Wicklow Way and circles around Muskeagh Hill. As such it is a mixed surface, varied gradient walking trail and is suitable for beginners. The historic woods of Tomnafinnoge and the old railway track leading to the woods are exceptionally interesting to nature lovers.
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Length: 10km
Estimated Time: 2hrs
Target Audience: This programme is aimed at women aged 18+ years.
Date and time: Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:00 – 08:00
Location: Greystones South Beach
To celebrate #HerOutdoorsWeek, Active Wicklow are hosting a Her Wicklow, Her Outdoors Intro to Sea Swimming Taster at Wicklow Harbour. The event is perfect for beginners or those looking to gain more confidence in the sea.
In this taster session your Instructor will be covering basic safety skills like floating and treading water for open water swimming, breathing techniques to get the face in the water and front crawl basics to get you started putting a few strokes together in the sea. Perfect for those dippers wanting to start swimming and for nervous swimmers who are having difficulties with breathing with the face in the water. The session is very focused on safety and is delivered at a relaxed and easy going pace.
Book onto Intro to Sea Swimming Greystones Here
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
By responsibly booking and promptly cancelling if needed, you actively contribute to our goal of empowering women in outdoor activities. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Target Audience: This programme is aimed at women aged 18+ years.
Date and time: Fri, 18 Aug 2023 18:45 – 19:45
Location: Greystones South Beach
To celebrate #HerOutdoorsWeek, Active Wicklow are hosting a Her Wicklow, Her Outdoors Intro to Sea Swimming Taster at Wicklow Harbour. The event is perfect for beginners or those looking to gain more confidence in the sea.
In this taster session your Instructor will be covering basic safety skills like floating and treading water for open water swimming, breathing techniques to get the face in the water and front crawl basics to get you started putting a few strokes together in the sea. Perfect for those dippers wanting to start swimming and for nervous swimmers who are having difficulties with breathing with the face in the water. The session is very focused on safety and is delivered at a relaxed and easy going pace.
Book onto Intro to Sea Swimming Greystones Here
We kindly request that you only book events that you genuinely intend to participate in. No-shows and last-minute cancellations impact planning and prevent others from seizing these valuable opportunities.
By responsibly booking and promptly cancelling if needed, you actively contribute to our goal of empowering women in outdoor activities. Thank you for your understanding and support.
