Mayo forest among the top 10 most popular Coillte sites during lockdown

Visitor numbers to the country’s top 50 Coillte forests were 2.2 million from the beginning of March to the end of December 2020. This represents an overall increase of 38% from 1.6 million for the same period in 2019.

One of the most popular of all is Belleek in Ballina, which is the ninth most visited Coillte forest countrywide.

The numbers visiting to some of Coillte's most popular recreational forests have doubled to tripled since lockdown began last year, depending on location.

The Dublin Mountains (of which Ticknock Forest accounts for the majority) is the most visited, followed by Rossmore Forest Park in Co. Monaghan and Donadea Forest Park in Co. Kildare.

“We’re delighted so many people are using their local forests more during this difficult and prolonged Covid lockdown,” said Imelda Hurley, Coillte’s CEO. “Healthy forests are not only beautiful to look at but provide a much needed physical and mental wellness boost.”

It’s now widely agreed that fresh air and green outside spaces enhance people’s mood, happiness and overall health.

“This is particularly important right now,” said Hurley. “We’re glad people’s local forests are a healthy and positive outlet for them. We simply ask that Covid-19 restrictions be adhered to when visiting.”

There are approximately 6,000 Coillte forest properties nationwide, all of which are open to the public, while there are 260 Coillte managed recreational forests. Almost 80% of Coillte’s forests are working forests, producing the most commonly used wood in modern Irish homes, and commercial forestry supports around 12,000 jobs in mostly rural areas.