Eat & move with Derval O’Rourke: The best summer active days out and my all-time favourite breakfast
This week I’m focusing on summer active days. I’m sharing my top days out plus my all-time favourite breakfast, overnight oats.
Myself and the girls recently had a chat in the office about organising a few hikes and outdoorsy adventures over the summer. We wanted to try to make the most of the mild summer weather while squeezing in a little bit of movement and a whole lot of fun.
These are our top picks for summer active days out:
There is so much to see and do once you arrive, from Áras an Uachtaráin to
Dublin Zoo. At the start of my running career, I used to run hills in Phoenix Park every Sunday morning. It’s a wonderful place to get a few kilometres in or have a walk. There are lots of places for tea and coffee too including the Phoenix Park Tea Rooms and the Phoenix Café.
www.phoenixpark.ie
A walk at Garretstown beach would have to be my favourite. I love the sea air and find it’s great for clearing your head after a busy week. This walk is one I would consider suitable for everyone and there are stunning views along the way. If you are feeling particularly brave or energised then book in for a lesson at GTown surf school. Refuel after at Diva café, a funky little café in Ballinspittle. We love Diva café because not only do they make delicious cakes and serve amazing coffee; they also try to use as much local and organic produce as possible.
www.kinsale.ie
This walk begins at the Diamond Rocks Café at the west end of the town of Kilkee and follows a cliff path along the outstanding coastline. This is not an overly challenging walk and is best enjoyed on a sunny day so you can take full advantage of the beautiful views.
www.kilkee.ie
This place has something to appeal to everyone, from thrillseekers (climbing, amazing hiking, kayaking) to nature enthusiasts (last herd of native red deer, deer ruts, white-tailed eagles) to history buffs (Ross Castle, Muckross House) to families with young kids (pony-and-trap rides, boat trips. It’s easily accessible for the most part and the parts that demand a little more effort to reach are simply breathtaking. I would highly recommend stopping in the Muckross garden restaurant to refuel afterwards.
www.killarneynationalpark.ie
This is one of my little girl’s favourite places to visit. It celebrates its 35th birthday this year with a summer series of events including outdoor concerts, educational weekends, art workshops, yoga and a Blue Playground all of which are free to attend providing you register in advance. These events are in addition to a programme of wildlife talks, feeding times, arts and crafts and face painting held seasonally throughout the park.
www.fotawildlife.ie
A new ferry service has just started to Spike making it super accessible. I first went there four years ago to film Ireland’s Fittest Family and I loved it. This is a great family day out. Visitors can explore the impressive 104-acre island with a guided tour which departs daily from Kennedy Pier, Cobh, Cork Harbour.
I would also highly recommend visiting the Titanic Experience and exploring the beautiful heritage town which is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Ireland. For those looking for something a little bit different, the Spike Island after dark tour is a must.
www.spikeislandcork.ie
I ran my local park runs in Ballincollig Regional Park all last summer with a few of my friends and loved seeing people of all ages and abilities getting out and moving.
There is always such a buzz and sense of camaraderie at these kinds of events. They are perfect for people starting out as the focus is on taking part and getting stuck in. We run them purely for fun and to keep our bodies fit, healthy and strong without any pressure with regards to times and the likes. Combine with a bite to eat at Good for the Soul café afterwards and I think you’ve got yourself a lovely morning out.
www.parkrun.ie
In Cork, I recommend the Himalaya Yoga Valley Centre’s Yoga in the Park. All you need to bring is your yoga mat, sunscreen, water and donation (minimum of €5) for their chosen charity. It’s suitable for all levels from yoga enthusiasts to complete novices. Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
www.yogacorkireland.com
The Discover Ireland website is packed with information and listings for Irish accommodation, activities, events and tourist attractions. Check it out at www.discoverireland.ie for inspiration on planning your perfect holiday or day out in Ireland this summer.
Overnight Oats
This recipe is one of the simplest breakfast solutions around. It’s super easy all you need to do is pop all the ingredients in a container and chill overnight, then you can grab and go in the morning. It’s a nutritious option packed with slow release energy and fibre.
1 minute (and then popped into the fridge overnight)
Combine all of the ingredients, except the honey, in a bowl or container. Mix gently with a spoon. Place in the fridge overnight. Next morning, add toppings of choice and eat.
Apple and Cinnamon Puree, Peach and Ginger Puree
These purees couldn’t be simpler to make and are an excellent alternative to shop-bought varieties. They are perfect for adding a sweet fruity twist to these simple creamy overnight oats. Alternatively, they make for delicious yoghurt topping with some crunchy granola to finish.
1 small jar
5 minutes
15-20 minutes
Place all of the ingredients in a pan.
Bring to the boil and simmer for 15- 20 minute until the apples are soft.
Use a blender to achieve desired consistency. If you are using a stick blender I would suggest using a tall jug to blend so that the puree doesn’t go everywhere.
Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
1 small jar
5 minutes
15-20 minutes
Place all of the ingredients in a pan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 15- 20 minute until the peaches are soft.
Use a blender to achieve desired consistency. Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
