Active Pursuits

Cycling

Kildare's flat-to-rolling landscape is perfect for gentle cycling. Sadly, most organized tours bypass Kildare for regions with more diverse scenery, but you can always plan your own route. Bike rental shops are surprisingly few in County Kildare, but you could try Cahill Cycles, Fishery Lane, Naas (tel. 045/881-585), or Celbridge Cycle, Main Street, Celbridge (tel. 01/627-4023). Alternatively, you could rent a bike in Dublin.

Golf

The flat plains here create excellent parkland layouts, including two 18-hole championship courses. If your wallet is padded, the Arnold Palmer-designed, par-72 Kildare Hotel & Country Club (also known as the K Club), Straffan (tel. 01/601-7200; www.kclub.com), has two courses, with greens fees ranging from €90 to €380 for nonresidents in high season, depending on tee time. For a less costly game, the par-70 Kilkea Castle Golf Club, Castledermot (tel. 059/914-5555; www.kilkeacastlegolfresort.ie), charges €40 Monday to Thursday, €50 Friday to Sunday. Kilkea also does four course golf and meal packages. Or try the par-72 championship course at the Curragh Golf Club, Curragh (tel. 045/441714; www.curraghgolf.com), with greens fees of €25 weekdays, €35 weekends.

Horseback Riding

Visitors can expect to pay an average of €25 per hour for trekking or trail riding in the Kildare countryside. To arrange a ride, contact the Kill International Equestrian Centre, Kill (tel. 045/877-333; www.killinternational.ie).

Walking

The way-marked Grand Canal Way is a long-distance walking path that cuts through part of Kildare. Its flatness makes it ideal for beginners and for walkers who lack ambition. The canal passes through plenty of scenic towns, such as Sallins, Robertstown, and Edenderry, where you can find a room and stock up on provisions. For more information, contact the tourist office.