About us
In early summer 2021, Erlebnis Akademie AG (eak AG) from the Bavarian Forest in Germany and Carlingford Adventure established a joint venture for the construction and operation of outdoor adventure facilities in Ireland & UK, starting with a treetop walk in Avondale Forest Park. EAK Ireland Treetop Walks inc. is a majority owned subsidiary to eak AG and is managed by Tom McArdle, owner of Carlingford Adventure and Bernd Bayerköhler, CEO of eak AG.
Erlebnis Akademie AG
Starting in 2001 with the construction and operation of high rope courses, eak opened its first treetop walk in the Bavarian Forest in 2009. Thanks to its success, Erlebnis Akademie AG is now one of the largest developers and operators of near-nature leisure and adventure areas in Europe. The company´s main focus lies in the conception, construction and operation of treetop walks and additional facilities like adventure playgrounds, restaurants and merchandise shops. So far, 13 treetop walks and complementary facilities have been established. Additionally, numerous attractive projects in Europe and North America are already planned. With over 2 million visitors in 2019 and over 150 employees, eak AG sets the standards for outdoor adventure facilities in a growing market. The company is also listed on the Munich Stock Market.
Carlingford Adventure
Carlingford Adventure began in 1990, founded by Tom and Mary McArdle and is still owned by the McArdles under the stewardship of their son Tom. It has grown to be the No.1 Adventure Centre in Ireland, alongside Skypark Adventure Park which was opened in 2014. Carlingford in County Louth has become the adventure hub of Ireland's Ancient East with tens of thousands of people each year visiting for both adrenaline adventures and more leisurely activities in the beautiful surroundings of the Cooley Mountains and Carlingford Lough. With a 350 bed hostel and over 40 activities there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Our Treetop Walks
The predominantly wooden, easily accessible treetop walks are built with the highest standards of architecture in a nature-friendly design. They integrate perfectly into their environment and enhance their surroundings as an adventure destination. With our treetop walks, we open up forests and new landscapes to the public with a strict adherence to environmental principles. Close co-operation with local partners (like national parks, tourist resorts or towns and villages) is an essential part of our holistic approach to establishing sustainable experiences for everyone to enjoy.