PADDLE YOUR OWN CANOE

‘There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats,’ said Water Rat in the Wind in the Willows.

Every sunny evening offers the potential for a little adventure on our waterways on even the smallest of craft, which can be surprisingly cheap.

Argos has an inflatable kayak for €130, for nonchallenging lakes and rivers. The two-person K-2 version costs €180. Both claim to be US coastguard approved.

Omearacamping.com has more serious-looking fibreglass kayaks from €379.

Get lessons first and only go into shallow water until you’re properly experienced.