Donning wellies and waxed jackets to enjoy tramping through colourful leaves in the crisp autumn air is one of the pleasures associated with autumn staycations. It’s on the agenda at Longueville House, Co Cork where guests can discover the slow pleasure of mushroom hunting. Under the guidance of mycologists, participants embark on bracing hikes around the estate in search of these small treasures with a break in proceedings for a rustic picnic lunch. After the hunt, mushrooms are displayed, dissected and discussed. As a finale, chef/owner William O’Callaghan prepares and cooks a banquet of mushrooms with dinner. This two-night stay including dinner, afternoon tea, picnics and breakfast is from €410; www.longuevillehouse.ie.

Mushroom hunting at Longueville House, Co Cork.

At Cliff House Hotel, overlooking Ardmore Bay, sustainability is a key focus, reinforced by a new “Leave No Trace” getaway. The two-night break includes a hill skills course led by “MuddyBoots” – aka Mario Macrory, a qualified guide and mountaineering trainer. The course is suitable for beginners: map reading and emergency procedures are taught as are the principles of exploring nature with kindness, leaving no trace behind other than perhaps a few muddy bootprints. The two-night getaway includes accommodation in a sea view room, dinner in the bar-restaurant on one evening, and a packed lunch to take on hikes. From €1,055 for two people sharing. www.cliffhousehotel.ie

Getting ahead for Christmas is on the agenda at Dromoland Castle, where its “Festive Skills” package for two people sharing, €960, includes two nights’ accommodation and dinner in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant. Included is a calligraphy workshop led by Natalie Moriarty and a wreath workshop by resident florist Dan Lawless. Whether addressing cards with a flourish, or decking the halls with foliage, participants will be ahead on the Christmas countdown; www.dromoland.ie.

Main featured image: Mountaineering at Cliff House Hotel.