For the well-trodden hill-walker who wishes to tackle the more demanding pursuit of mountaineering, the county of Wicklow offers varied opportunities, not least being Lugnaquilla at 925 metres, which affords a little practice before scaling Ireland's highest peak - the 1,039 metres of Carrauntoohill in the MacGillycuddy's Reeks of county Kerry. Or if you can envisage yourself clinging to a cliff-face by fingertips and toes with a smile on your face, then it might be rock-climbing for you. This extreme challenge of endurance, stamina and courage can be explored, even for beginners, at numerous locations in the county, most particularly at Glendalough. There are indoor walls to initiate your training too, on the outskirts of Dublin, all within easy reach of Ballycullen Lodge. See www.mountaineering.ie or www.climbing.ie for further information.

Fox hunting continues to be legal and is very much part of traditional country in Ireland. Your host is both accomplished riders and would be delighted to arrange your participation in riding activities at whatever level you wish in the beautiful country side immediately adjoining the Lodge. Drag-hunting, for those who do not support the blood sport of fox-hunting, but nonetheless enjoy the thrill of the chase on horseback behind a pack of excited hounds, is a very popular pastime in Ireland. The 'Bray Harriers' is just one of several hunts that go out twice weekly in different locations around Wicklow. Many local horse-riding establishments are happy to organise participation on your behalf.

See 'Horse-Riding' under Be Active or visit www.devilsglen.ie/hunting.htm. If you would like us to advise you about riding in the vicinity, please give us plenty of notice.

At www.oceandivers.ie you can learn all there is to know before indulging the mysteries of the Irish seas through scuba-diving. Located on the pier side at Dunlaoghaire, a mere 40-minute drive from Ballycullen Lodge, what better way to experience the thrills and sights of a vast world beneath the waves.