Blackwater River Walk, Co. Cork

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.

Blackwater River Walk

This time I’m taking you to Fermoy. Not for a shopping tour, but for a nice walk along the Blackwater River. The only disadvantage is that it is not suitable for the youngest ones who are still in the buggy.

Let’s start at the Rowing Club at the Ashe Quay and walk along the river. The first part is like a promenade, but once through the barrier it’s going on on natural paths. Between fields on the left hand side and the river to the right. From time to time you have to pass through a few gates, which are mostly in the shade of the trees.

After a while you will enter the forestry area and from here the path is getting narrow. More and more roots cover the trail. There are a few scenic views, you shouldn’t miss.

The path leads over a few bridges and along a fence. And after about 2,5 km you will reach the yellow path marking for the long distance walk. Following this marking you end up at the road “Glenabo Heights” (52°7′43″ N  8°17′54″ W).

You have now 2 options: Either turn and walk back or extend this walk to the waterfall, you only need to cross the street and enter “Glenabo forest”.

At the moment, you can walk almost everywhere with normal sport shoes. I only want to give you a reminder for the days with rain. Then it is definitely necessary to wear good shoes.

Directions

From Dunkettle Rdabout take the M8 to Watergrasshill and leave at exit 17. From here follow the R639 to Fermoy. (Advantage: You don’t have to pay toll, when you follow this route) In Fermoy follow the R639. After the left turn at the traffic light, turn left again into the Ashe Quay. Ashe Quay is in front of the bridge. Now drive to the end.

GPS: 52°8′18″ N  8°16′42″ W

Good news for all who are dependent on public transport:

There are 2 busses to Fermoy: No. 245 and X8

Once you left the bus, you don’t have to go to the traffic light and then turn left. There is a street just before the traffic light, which leads you to Ashe Quay, too.

If you want to join me for a walk or hike, please click here for guided walks in Co. Cork