The imposing mountain that looms in the background of the Seattle skyline is even more impressive close up: 14, 411 feet from base to summit, it is the highest mountain in Washington.

BBC: Seattle side trips in every direction

Otherwise, any time of year, hikers can start the two-hour climb from the base of the mountain to the summit in the village of Murrisk, next to the visitor centre Teach na Miasa.

BBC: Who was the real St Patrick?

Some of the international delegations attending the G8 summit in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, in June will base themselves in the Irish Republic.

BBC: G8 boost for border counties in Irish Republic