The idea of getting in your car, only to leave its comfy interiors to go for a walk, can be less than desirable, I know.
But all that changes when you go for a walk in a forest. Maybe it's the height of the trees that make you feel small and hidden, or it's the crunch of the leaves as you dodge each branch that makes a walk in a forest more tranquil and enjoyable than any other.
We've rounded up some of the best forests that make you feel like you're a million miles from home, and who will leave you wandering happily around for hours.
1. Bonny Glen Wood, Donegal
Take your pick from having a wander around the trees, eating a picnic or just sitting by one of the three lakes inside
this peaceful sanctuary.
2. Avondale Forest Park, Wicklow
Nature lovers will be in their element in this
500-acre forest park, complete with intertwining walking routes and picnic spots. Divine.
3. Castlewellan Forest Park, Down
This forest park is home to one of the
world's largest hedge mazes, so you can possibly get very lost in this one.
4. Derrycarne Wood, Cavan
Forget about work for a while as you take a leisurely stroll along the banks of
Lough Boderg.
5. Donadea Forest Park, Kildare
After your stroll around
this park looking at the remains of a castle, you can pop into the cafe for a pick-me-up.
6. Gragan's Wood, Clare
This forest is located in the Burren, so you're getting two for the price of one when you visit here.
7. Tawnyard, Mayo
Before you get lost in this
forest area, don't forget to take in the views of the stunning Sheeffry Hills.
8. Gougane Barra Forest Park, Cork
You can
hike the nearby Sheehy mountains, or simply sit and look at the views of the lake.
9. Bailieborough, Cavan
In this gorgeous
forest, you will be accompanied by views of the lake throughout your whole walk.
10. Clogrennane Wood, Carlow
Test out your nature skills as you try and tell the
Beech tree from the Oak in this park.
11. Portumna Forest Park, Galway
This one has a
duck pond. Need I say more?
12. Glenshalane Forest Trails, Waterford
Take your pick from the three walking routes
available, but you're guaranteed a gorgeous riverside walk either way.
13. Glengarra Wood, Tipperary
Walk through the
Millennium Forest eating your avocado toast like the millennium you are.
14. Glengarriff Wood, Cork
Immerse yourself in nature as you follow the
nature trails through this glorious wooded area in Cork.
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