More than EUR6.6m (£5.7m) worth of government funding is to be shared by nine tourism projects across Ireland with an emphasis on outdoor-based activities.

Tourism minister Leo Varadkar made the announcement during a visit to County Clare, with cash being allocated through Fáilte Ireland's Tourism Capital Investment Programme.

A EUR3.15m (£2.7m) grant is to go towards the creation of a trail between Shannon Bridge and Sarsfield Bridge along Howley's Quay along the River Shannon in Limerick.

More than EUR1.2m (£1m) will help Derrynane House in County Kerry ensure it is able to meet the demands of modern tourists, with work to be phased over the next three years.

Burren Heritage Trail and the Doolin Cycle Hub, County Clare; Spike Island Walk, County Cork; and Nenagh Cycleway Signage in County Tipperary will also receive funding.

Another County Tipperary tourism site, the Clare Glens Amenity Area, is also set to receive a grant, along with two sections of the Great Western Greenway in County Mayo.

Varadkar said: "Walking and cycling play to our strengths as a holiday destination. The easier we make it for participants, the more attractive Ireland becomes as a destination."

Details: www.transport.ie

Image: Derrynane House - Mike Searle