IRISH people are being warned that a major winter experience is set to close this weekend.
Ice Skating Dún Laoghaire in Dublin was back last November with new additions, but the trail is closing its doors on January 12.
This year’s event featured a brand-new ice skating experience inspired by the renowned Fota House & Gardens trail in Cork.
The Alpine Skate Trail opened to visitors on November 1, transforming Dún Laoghaire harbour into a winter wonderland.
But the festive fun experience is set to close its doors on January 12.
It offers an unforgettable winter experience, featuring a winding ice trail surrounded by festive spruce trees, twinkling lights, and snow-covered chalets.
And is perfect for all skill levels as the Alpine Skate Trail also includes a smaller rink for beginners.
This year’s skating adventure has a winding trail that includes thrilling straights all set against a magical backdrop of Alps-style trees with twinkling festoon lighting and snow-covered chalets.
The trail offers a fresh take on ice skating, diverging from the traditional rink experience it offered last year.
Experienced skaters can dive straight into the trail’s new layout.
While beginners can practice on a designated smaller rink, complete with Penguin Skate Aids to help them get their footing.
Managing Director at Cool Running Events Bill Cremin said: “We are delighted to bring Alpine Skate Trail to Dún Laoghaire harbour this festive season.
“With our ice skating experiences, we like to imagine the unimaginable and then bring that to life.
“We believe now is the right time to introduce it to Dublin skaters and show them what they’ve been missing out on.
“We encourage everyone to give it a go once, but we can’t guarantee you won’t be back.”
With the DART on its doorstep an free parking, the Ice Skating Dún Laoghaire is the ideal destination for families and friends looking for a magical winter experience.
Meanwhile, a teacher has told how he and his friends built a 23ft snowman as the Big Freeze continues to grip Ireland.
Servatius Antonius spent five hours lovingly crafting ‘Big Bill’ after being hit with a water and electricity blackout in Elton, Co Limerick.
The 28-year-old history and geography teacher joined forces with brother Paulus, 23, and pals Chris Beville, 24, and Johnny Driscoll, 22.
The group met up at the sports field in Elton village after suffering power and water outages.
And speaking to the Irish Sun, proud Servatius told how there was snow stopping them once they got going.
He beamed: “It took five long hours but we’re delighted with it!”