There’s a grand stretch already.

And if the brighter evenings have you craving more time in the great outdoors, a new list of spectacular strolling spots is an excellent place to start.

Rural development group SECAD has published a free brochure featuring 15 stunning locations to explore this spring – including two you may not have heard of.

The brochure, Keep Moving in Nature, is a handy guide to walkways and cycleways along coastal, river, and wood trails in the Ring of Cork, all handpicked to include morning hikes, Sunday strolls, family picnic spots and fishing areas.

Hidden gems

While most of us are familiar with popular locations such as the Youghal Boardwalk and Ballincollig Regional Park, lesser-known gems will treat explorers to historical features along the way.

Walking distance from Midleton, Ballyannan Woods is carpeted in bluebells come April, while the Knockadoon Cliff Walk boasts breathtaking views of Ballycotton, Youghal Bay, and Capel Island as well as the perfect swimming spot (Knockadoon Pier) to cool off with a dip.

“Getting outside and staying active has never been more important,” said Elga Ryan from SECAD Partnership CLG.

“We are so lucky to have such incredible amenities right here on our doorstep, but sometimes, with so much choice, we don’t know where to start. Keep Walking in Nature is a prompt – it’s an inspiration.”