Wild Fungi & Foraging at Blackstairs Eco Trails
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable walking moderate distances; no special fitness required.
Overview
Uncover the secrets of wild mushrooms with hand-on foraging and a delicious organic lunch at Blackstairs Eco Trails. A perfect mix of nature, education, and culinary delight.
Wild Fungi Workshops
For all ages! • 5 & A Half Hours • 3 Course Organic Lunch
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About This Adventure
Join the Wild Fungi Workshop for an unforgettable 5.5-hour adventure in the woods, exploring the fascinating world of wild mushrooms. Learn to identify various species, enjoy a delicious three-course organic lunch, and even cook up your edible finds. This immersive experience combines nature, education, and culinary delight in one unique day.
Duration: 5 & A Half Hours
The Wild Fungi Workshops are one of our most popular experiences and would need to be booked well in advance. A day spent in the woods looking for different types of wild mushrooms; mushrooms of all shapes, sizes and colours. Some edible some not. Some poisonous, others deadly. Ireland has a surprising number of wild mushrooms, something in the region of 4,000 species, so there is a lot to get to know in the woods, both coniferous and deciduous. The day will start with Tea and Coffee and a brief introductory talk, illustrated with samples. We will then go off to a local wood or two, to see what we can find. After a couple of hours, we will return for a three-course organic lunch. After lunch we will identify everything we have found and if there are any edibles, we will cook them up.
Highlights
- Learning to identify, safely, wild fungi and enjoying the preparation and cooking up of edible fungi.
Includes
- Three course organic lunch
Important to Know
- Appropriate outdoor clothing
- Walking boots or wellingtons are advised
- No pets
Adventure Tips
Wear waterproof footwear
The forest floor can be moist and muddy, so sturdy, waterproof shoes are recommended.
Bring a guidebook
Having a mushroom identification guide can enhance learning and safety during foraging.
Enjoy seasonal snacks
Try fresh berries or other forest snacks pre- or post-lesson to deepen your connection with the environment.
Practice patience
Fungi can be elusive; take your time to look carefully and respect the ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red squirrel
- Woodcock
History
Originally a traditional foraging spot for local communities for generations, preserving Ireland’s rich culinary heritage.
Conservation
Guides emphasize sustainable foraging practices to protect native fungi populations and forest health.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wexford
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy waterproof boots
Necessary for navigating damp forest terrain safely.
Mushroom pocket guide
Helps identify fungi during foraging.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry in unpredictable Irish weather.
Small knife for harvesting
Useful for collecting specimens without damaging the environment.