It is aimed at encouraging Fifers to get out and about in the countryside with organised walks, cycles, disabled rambles children's activities and horse riding.

Among the dozens of events on offer are horse riding taster sessions at Lochore Meadows riding school and walks using several routes including Kirkcaldy to Burntisland, the Fife Coastal Path, Raith Estate to Cardenden and Ravenscraig to Dysart Harbour.

There are also cycling routes and sessions on walking your dog in the countryside.

The festival will then culminate on Sunday with a spectacular dragon boat race at Lochore Meadows. Teams of up to 18 paddlers will be racing Chinese dragon boats over a 250m course, raising up to £1500 each for various charities.

The races are the first of their kind in Fife, and will be starting from 10 a.m., running all day until 5 p.m.

Marta Reeves-Marr of Fife Coast and Countryside Trust said: "The festival gives people the chance to explore Fife's great outdoors for themselves with the aid of experienced leaders.

"Whether you want a strenuous climb to the top of the Lomond Hills or a scenic wander along level paths the festival guarantees walks for all abilities.

"All event leaders are also knowledgeable in local history and wildlife and will be glad to point out the many interesting sites along the routes.

"Exploring as part of a group is fun and a great way to unearth hidden beautiful corners of the countryside."

The festival is also supported by several other organisations including the Trust's Ranger Service, Fife Ramblers, Forth and Tay Disabled Ramblers and Lochore Meadows.

More information on all the events and details of how to book places online is available from www.fifeoutdooraccessfestival.co.uk.

Late registration of teams for Sunday's dragon boat race may be possible by calling the organisers on 0845 0529627.