Moanbaun Woods, Co. Cork
Timeshift has been completed. We all were allowed to sleep an hour longer. Not really, because this hour has taken away by spring shift. We only got back what we deserve.
But this single hour has a huge impact. Since that last weekend of October, we are living in a deep hole. Surrounded by darkness, lower temperatures, wetness and main color GREY. We feel a lack of energy, are tired or suffer immediately from “Winter blues”.
And now? Staying inside and mourning for spring shift? Next time shift is at end of March and then we definitely complain again, because of the one single hour that will be taken away.
Let’s turn it into a positive scenery:
Do you like the pictures above? Doesn’t it look cozy when the sunlight has such a game to play? The disadvantage is: You won’t find it inside your house. Though….Let’s leave the house and search for the light!
Today I want you to introduce to the forest recreation area Moanbaun. You’ll have the option to chose between 2 loops or if you have time and feel comfortable, walk the whole distance of both loops. The longer one is about 1 hour 10 min, the shorter one about 45 min. And you have the choice to walk the loops in whatever direction you personally prefer. It is suitable for buggies and your dog is welcome, too. Recommended is to have them on lead.
Directions
It seems the plateau north of Cork can be reached from more sides as you may think. Here is the fastest route to get there:
Starting from Dunkettle Roundabout take the M8 towards Dublin and leave at exit 17 – Watergrasshill. There’s no fee because you leave the M8 before the toll station.
On the first roundabout take the 4th exit to cross the M8,
next roundabout you take the 1st exit and after about 500 m turn right towards Kartworld and Leamlara.
Follow this road until you pass by the first car park on the left-hand side. A bit further is another car park which marks the main entrance to the recreation area. You won’t miss it.
GPS: 51°59′38″ N 8°18′5″ W