On your doorstep... Herefordshire

2:07pm Wednesday 10th October 2007

THE peace of Herefordshire draws many to live and holiday there.

It is rightly considered as one of the rural jewels in this country's crown, and that automatically conjures images of peaceful strolls along meandering roads and quiet hours fishing on the banks of gently flowing rivers.

You can do all that - but adrenaline junkies can also get the fix they want. Mountain boarding, grass sledging, shooting the rapids in a canoe, or riding the airwaves in a paraglider or microlight - all can be done in Herefordshire.

With the help of Visit Herefordshire, here's a brief guide to some of the things you can do: Paragliders will find plenty of opportunities around the Black Mountains, on the south-west edge of the county, while Shobdon Airfield is the base for several gliding and microlight clubs.

For a slightly more sedate airborne experience, take your pick from the various ballooning centres in the area, with flights ranging from standard trips to bespoke bookings with champagne.

Ever tried mountain boarding or grass sledging? Herefordshire is full of woodlands and meadows that are ideal.

You could try your hand at karting or quad biking, while potential Ray Mears-types can camp out under the stars and learn bushcraft. There's also a host of multi-activity centres with specially designed courses, each run by experts, and many of which provide basic accommodation.

Paint balling, zip-wire abseiling and problem-solving activities for individuals or groups, are also available.

For more information: www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

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