Brought to you by Opera Lane.

It’s time to wrap up warm and embrace the outdoors.

Crisp mornings, colourful trees, that slightly chilly air – and, yes, the excuse to buy some new gear to make the experience more enjoyable (and Instagrammable).

If you’re planning to make the most of Cork’s many scenic walks and hiking routes this season, Mountain Warehouse on Opera Lane has plenty of practical pieces that don’t mean sacrificing your style.

A gilet is an easy autumn win, particularly for those days when it’s cool but not quite full winter coat weather. Throw one over a cosy fleece or chunky knit, and you’ve got a versatile layer that works just as well for a coffee stop afterwards as it does on the trail.

This Opal Women’s Padded Gilet is now just €29.99 at Mountain Warehouse on Opera Lane (down from €69.99 – pictured left). On the right is the super cosy Comfort Zone Women’s Longline Gilet, now €95.99 in-store and ideal for fending off the wind.

For longer walks, look out for lightweight waterproofs, warm fleeces, comfortable walking trousers and sturdy footwear – essentially, everything you need to embrace the great outdoors without spending the entire hike wondering why you didn’t dress more sensibly.

Decent boots are a must if you want to avoid soggy socks – check out the Adventurer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots, which protect, grip and give comfort for walks and hiking. These boots have been designed for outdoor walks, day trips and dog walking, and they’ll see you right through the winter and beyond.

Adventurer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots, now just €41.99 at Mountain Warehouse, Opera Lane

Trail Blazer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots, €51.99, Mountain Warehouse

If you’re looking for lots of bang for your buck, try on the Nebraskan Borg three-in-one jacket.

Featuring a cosy, removable Borg gilet inner and a water-resistant outer shell, this jacket boasts ultimate adaptability for any season. Crafted with IsoTherm technology, it’ll keep you warm in chilly temperatures and transitions from trail to town.

Three-in-One Jacket, now €83.99 at Mountain Warehouse, Opera Lane.

And autumn really is the perfect excuse to explore a little more of Cork. From woodland trails to coastal routes and countryside rambles, there are plenty of scenic spots to discover – preferably followed by something warm and caffeinated.

So, grab your layers, lace up those walking boots and make the most of the season. The forecast may be doing its usual Cork thing, but that’s no reason to stay indoors – just swing by Opera Lane to get organised.