It's January. More appropriately for many of us it's broke January.
Chances are you got your last paycheck before Christmas and somehow it's supposed to see you through until the end of this month. Chance are it's also dry January (a side effect of Broke January) so apart from binging on boxsets what is there to do at weekends.
Gyms are bursting at the seams so you might want to look further afield to fill your down time.
Here's a look at some of the things on offer around the region.
1. Get back to nature and get in a 10km in Wexford
Raven Wood Nature Reserve adjoining the popular Curracloe beach in County Wexford, is a long narrow strip. It is a hotspot for animals and plants that can be found only on this site in Ireland. Take the popular loop walk through the mature pine forest, then cross through the sand dunes and return via the Curracloe beach. (Movie buffs will know this is where Saving Private Ryan starring Tom Hanks was filmed).
Curracloe beach
2. Find some fairies in Waterford
The Anne valley walk is located in Dunhill village in County Waterford. The walk winds through forest and marsh land next to the river Anne and is a protected wildlife area. If you are lucky you may see some of the many protected wildlife species such as the Heron, Kingfisher, Otter and an amazing range of other fauna and flora. The most awe inspiring sight all along the walk is the view of Dunhill castle. All along the walk and in the woods are magical fairy doors. See if you can find them all.
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3. Visit your local library
Settle in with a good book, look up courses to plan for the year ahead or check out free activities that might be happening in your local library. There are usually regular free activities and chances are there's a library near you whichever of the five south east counties you're in.
4. Head to one of many beaches in Waterford
While it might still be a bit chilly to go swimming there are numerous cliff walks and beach walks to take in. In Waterford the cliff walks in Dunmore and Ardmore are fab while all along the Copper Coast you can take in a scenic drive while stopping off to visit the numerous beaches along the route.
Tramore strand
5. Learn some history in Carlow
6. Check out the Deise Greenway
You can walk or cycle this fabulous new attraction in the south east. The route takes in views of the Comeraghs, the sea and green countryside dotted by interesting landmarks such as the Ballyvoyle brick-lined tunnel which is as fresh as the day it was built and two stone viaducts. There are numerous access points but you can start at Dungarvan before heading back to have a coffee or bite to eat in the any of the quality eateries in the town. (Or bring a picnic if funds are particularly low this month).
7. Visit a famous village in Kilkenny
Inistioge is a beautiful and historic village on the river Nore in South Kilkenny. The village was the setting for the film adaptation of Maeve Binchy's book Circle of Friends starring Minnie Driver. Its special character has made it one of the most visited places in the South East of Ireland for many decades.Nestling in the Nore valley it offers some of the best scenery in the region particularly in the recently restored gardens of the Woodstock estate. There is lots to do and when you tire of river paths and woodland hikes you can choose to eat and drink in one of our excellent restaurants and pubs.
Woodstock Estate
8. Experience the home of GAA in Tipp
Lár na Páirce Museum in Thurles is an interpretative centre of Gaelic Games that is dedicated to educating its visitors about the rich heritage of the GAA. It houses an impressive collection including hurleys, jerseys, trophies, medals, programmes, publications and banners. Recently refurbished, it now features a state of the art audio-visual system to enhance the visitor’s experience at key points throughout the tour.
Ok so this one's not quite free but it won't break the bank either with the entry fee for adults a reasonable €5 and a family ticket for €12.
9. Kilkenny Castle Park and Gardens
Take a romantic stroll in the heart of the city. Kilkenny Castle Park boasts 50 acres of charming and extensive pleasure grounds featuring mature trees and shrubs with an ornamental lake numbered among the many items of interest. To the front of the castle is the Rose Garden which has been designed in the shape of a Celtic High Cross with the castle at its peak. If you have little ones with you there's a children's playground. All of the equipment is suitable for a variety of ages ranging from 2-14
10. Discover the Comeraghs
Don't worry if you're not an experienced hiker. You can visit Mahon Falls and take a short walk from the car park in to the Waterfall itself near Leamybrien in County Waterford. If you fancy getting up a little higher the Nire Valley trails near Ballymacarbery in County Tipperary are signposted and easily accessible. Make sure you have waterproof boots, spare warm clothes and wetgear, and some snacks, and you should be guaranteed to be blown away by the scenery.
