You'd think fear of heights would be good enough reason to stay away from a pursuit involving…read morehurling yourself from treetop to treetop, fifty feet above ground, along a piece of string. And, in theory, it definitely is, but here's a tip. Simply never look down. It genuinely works.
Aside from that, the only group I'd advise against zip-lining is the infirm or very unfit. It does involve a fair bit of heft, and there are moments when you are painfully reminded that there is a large muscle group residing in your middle area, as you try to climb a net you've just bashed into, up to your refuge on a treetop platform.
But for anyone in the young therefore naturally fit, or middle aged and reasonably fit, categories, this is an absolute must to try at least once. It is just so much fun, very exhilarating, and a great team or family activity.
I suspect it's most exhilarating for those of us who aren't naturally inclined to hurl ourselves along a rope at a great height, but even for the less faint-hearted, challenges await, as there are five levels, the last one for over-15s only, and from what I could see from solid earth, it involves basically cycling across the face of the sun. On a tightrope. Or something like that.
It's less than an hour from the city centre, in the beautiful forest of Tibradden, and the staff are great - very attentive, friendly, and clearly keeping a close eye (you are glad to know).
You're safe at all times, and it is reassuring to know that you can not for a moment, due to your own stupidity, become unsafe, as you are double clipped on, and one of those is always locked.
Give yourself plenty of time, especially if it's your first time (and this applies especially for kids who will be trying hard to put on a brave face), as it takes some getting used to, and confidence builds as you go, so best not to rush it. But for an injection of family togetherness, zip lining if highly recommended, as naturally you go through highs and lows and figure out the journey together, one in which you're destined to prosper. In fact, maybe zip lining is the positive life metaphor we're all searching for. Relationship coming apart at the edges? Fly from tree to tree together for a few hours and you'll be all fixed in no time. Worried your staff don't like you? Bring them zip lining and up to Johnnie Foxes afterwards and watch your popularity levels soar to treetop heights.
It's very much a case of feel the fear and do it anyway. And what a high, in every sense, when you do.
For to adults and two kids it works out around 90 quid, but you can stay as long as you like, so make a day of it, bring a picnic and enjoy.
Small thing: Toilet facilities are not great, it's a portaloo job, and they could have been better kept. Tip: bring your own tissues.
