Forests for People
- Physical and Mental Wellbeing: Outdoor recreation plays a vital role in Ireland, bringing benefits to society by contributing to a wide range of areas, including physical and mental health, social inclusion, nature connectedness, community cohesion, environmental protection and rural and economic development.
- Increased Visitors – It is estimated that there are c.18m visits to Coillte forests annually. In recent years, the use of forests as recreational facilities has dramatically increased, with visitor numbers doubling or even tripling at some sites across the country.
- Open Forest Policy – Coillte has an open forest policy which means all walkers are free to visit any of our forests according to the Leave No Trace Principles.
- Enhancing Tourism – Tourism and business opportunities associated with forest-related recreational activities is a key contributing factor to the economic and social success of rural communities. Coillte has strategic partnerships with both Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Rural Community Development to deliver recreational facilities that support increased tourism and economic activity in rural areas.
- ‘Beyond the Trees, Avondale’ – Coillte flagship visitor destination showcases the evolution of Irish forestry with features including a Treetop Walk, a 38m high Viewing Tower and the longest slide in Ireland. Recognised as Ireland’s first age-friendly tourist destination, Beyond the Trees, Avondale was also awarded the Tourism and Hospitality Project of the Year in 2022.
