Author: Elisabeth
Glennagear Woods
In my eyes this summer has been the best since a long time. But all things come to an end and the unpredictable weather is back again in Ireland.
Does it keep us away from going out for a walk? Of course not! We have good shoes, good clothing and if the weather app shows a chance of 50% rain, the likelihood is given, that it won’t rain at all or only drizzle. County Cork and every 20 km a different weather. This was the initial situation that day.
From Inchileigh to Ballydaly Upper
Have I ever been excited about the way markings on some hiking trails? Never before! This trail seems to be the famous exception to the rule. It’s so easy to follow the trail, you will never have the feeling to get lost and it’s fabulous.
However, you should be fit, because the trail is a bit demanding. It’s not suitable for buggies. Dog owners could struggle at the stiles here and there, depending on how good your dog deals with such difficulties. We managed every of these stiles, but it sometimes was a bit tricky.
Hiking shoes are definitely recommended. With good shoes the hiking experience will be a good one.
Castleblagh, Co. Cork
It’s hidden gem. A beautiful walk through the forest and almost flat. And that’s why it’s almost suitable for everybody. And you have 2 options:
- A shorter loop and a longer loop, which includes a part of the Blackwater Way
- With or without a bit a gradient
Meelmane – Barry’s Cove – Butlerstown, Co. Cork
Well, last time I introduced you to the second part of the Seven Heads Walk. And because it was so relaxing and breathtaking, I thought we should do a few more sections, because the area is really something special. And it is summer time. Time to explore County Cork.
This time we start in Meelmane, not far from the place where we turned around last week. A good hint: It might be good to take your bathing clothes with you. And before I forget to mention, walking shoes are on this trail a huge advantage and highly recommended.
The total length of this walk is about 6 km one way and we had our second car parked in Butlerstown.
Courtmacsherry – Wood Point – Beamish Cove, Co. Cork
As the summer is still ongoing, let’s explore a few nice areas in the western part of County Cork. The distances to go are a bit longer, but be surprised how beautiful County Cork is.
The Seven Heads Walk is well known and the walk along the cliffs is breathtaking. Seven Heads Walk has a total length of 42.5 km and can be divided into several sections. This makes it easy for those who can’t or don’t want to walk long distances.
Basically Seven Heads Walk starts in Timoleague and from here you can walk to Courtmacsherry and its wonderful beaches. Everybody knows that I’m not a big friend of tarred surfaces and walking along the street.
That’s why we started with the 2nd section.
The Gearagh, Lee Valley, Co. Cork
Have you ever been to Macroom? A busy market town with the beautiful remainings of Macroom Castle. But the area around of Macroom is amazing. Today I want to show you something special. According to discoverycork.ie it is a place which remains of the only ancient post glacial alluvial forest in Western Europe: The Gearagh next to Macroom. The Gearagh is a haven of tranquillity and an area for everyone who loves birds, butterflies and flowers. The Irish Times calls it the Everglades without the crocodiles.
Knockananig Reserve, Co. Cork
Isn’t it easy to take the car and drive to a location that is quiet and beautiful? The disadvantage is, that mostly where you can go by car to, it is overcrowded. And there are places, which aren’t overcrowded, although you can go by car to. One of this places is Knockananig Reserve. However, I want to show you how beautiful it is to walk to this small lake.
Blackwater River Walk, Co. Cork
A never ending summer in Ireland. Have you ever thought we will have for weeks no rain and temperatures above 22 degrees? It is terrific! Not for the farmers, of course. And not for all the people that can’t stand the sun at the beaches.
But there is a solution. Instead of staying at home and being bored to death, let’s go for a walk. And believe me, it’s absolutely worth.
Ballyannan Woods, Co. Cork
Well, also me was busy watching football last week. But I made it to leave the house for a short walk. A suitable walk for almost everybody. And so near, just around the corner.
Doneraile Wildlife Park
Well, I know, the football world championship takes place at the moment. Either you’re sitting at work or in front of the TV. There’s only rare time to go for walking. I know all the excuses because I’m interested in football as well. That’s why I know how difficult it can be.
But this current “summer” isn’t like the years before. It is often sunny, not that often rainy and, most important, it is warm. Let’s use one of the upcoming days and go for a walk. At least in the early afternoon.
For all, who can’t decide:
From 25.6. only 2 times daily games will be broadcasted: 3 pm and 7 pm.
And if you miss the first half of the first match? No worries. The 2nd half is crucial.