RTÉ sports presenter gets out and about on Lough Derg

RTÉ’S outdoor recreation series, Tracks and Trails, will focus on Lough Derg next Thursday, June 30. 

The hugely popular show returns to the national broadcaster for its tenth series, with a total of four programmes that will cover every corner of the country.

This season, viewers are taken along trails that showcase Ireland at its most beautiful with a chance to explore some of the many walking and Blueway trails on offer for the outdoor visitor.

There is also an easy urban trail by bike from Titanic Quarter in Belfast along the River Lagan and then for something totally different to a mountain trail for a hike steeped lyrical mysticism on Slieve Gullion outside Newry,; to the winding, mystical forest and pilgrim trails of County Wicklow; to heart stopping views of the Blasket Islands and the soaring majesty of the mountains on the lakes in Killarney. In this series producers promise  something for every level of hiker or visitor.

In the Midwest, presenter Darren Frehill – best known for his GAA expertise – will see first-hand the range of water-based and other activities on offer along the shores of Lough Derg, when he travels by foot, bike and boat between Clare, Galway and Tipperary. The very successful Lough Derg Blue Way will be showcased, as well as many hidden gems that await the visitor to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. 

Also featuring in this series will be The Titanic Quarter, The Lagan Towpath Belfast and Slieve Gullion in County Armagh. That episode, which airs on July 7 is presented by comedian and author, Rory O’Connor from Rory’s Stories.

Roz Purcell, author, entrepreneur and founder of The Hike Life, presents a show on July 14 in which she walks St Kevin’s Way and The Avonmore Way, in County Wicklow. 

On July 21, the show moves to Kerry, where author Cathy Kelly will explore the wonders of the Dingle Peninsula and Killarney National Park. 

As always, Tracks and Trails will present stunning photography from mountains, hills, forests, meadows, parklands, cities, lakes and rivers. The show puts the emphasis on the benefits of getting outside and into nature for mental and physical health benefits. It also focuses on the importance of sharing and appreciating nature. All shows air on RTÉ One at 7.30pm.