Oldcourt – Garryduff, Co. Cork
One of the other days I made a walk at Oldcourt – Garryduff. I already have that on my list since I started to blog about walking. And believe me, it was hard to find. So near, but so hidden. My research source was Coillte.ie. It doesn’t matter which entrance you chose. A few meters off the road and you feel far away from the city. However, it is so close, almost around the corner. You probably won’t find this area, if you aren’t local. You will pass by, not knowing, that there is an entrance at all, because both entrances are outlined as private premises. But the best thing is: Both entrances can be reached by bus.
Woodland area
Let’s start at the western entrance. If you are starting there, the best option is coming by Bus No. 216 until Garryduff Sports Ground. Parking is a bit tricky here. There is one single parking lot at the very beginning of that trail if you are brave enough to enter the small driveway which is next to the traffic light. Walk downhill and then keep right.
The eastern entrance is behind the gate, shown in the picture below. There is a very small parking area in front of the gate and a tiny one behind. Follow the forest road that leads to a farm, but keep right as you have to use the link path to come to the main trail. You can reach this one taking Bus No. 223, get off at St. Gerards Terrace, walk a few meters back, cross the street, pass by Cinnamon Cottage and follow the street about 400 m. On the right-hand side is that gate.
-
- Garryduff, eastern gate to the woodland and to a farm
-
- Garryduff, link path
Pass the barrier in the dip and walk along a small stream. You’re going to pass by a few ruins of an old estate. Once left the ruins behind, there are several small paths to follow. Chose any of these paths and you will find yourself in calming down. You’re going to forget that you are close to the city. What a relief from stress. Use the benefits of this quiet area!
Directions
Western entrance:
Take the Bus No. 216 fron CUH until Garryduff Sportsground. After the Sportsground is a tiny driveway which leads into the woodland area.
By car:
From Dunkettle Rdabout or Kinsale Rdabout, take the N40 and take exit No. 9 towards Douglas,Rochestown, Carrigalline (N28). Leave the N28 at the first exit to Douglas and take the first exit at the next roundabout to follow R 610 towards Passage West until Coach Hill House. Turn right into L2472 up the hill until the next traffic light.
GPS: 51°52’14″N 08°23’15″W
Eastern entrance:
Take the Bus No. 223 from South Mall until St Gerards Terrace. Walk back to the traffic light, cross the street at the traffic light and walk down the L2474 for about 400 m, passing by the Cinnamon Cottage.
I was informed, that this parking area is PRIVATE ONLY!!!
By car:
From Dunkettle Rdabout or Kinsale Rdabout, take the N40 and take exit No. 9 towards Douglas, Rochestown, Carrigaline (N28). Leave the N28 at the first exit to Douglas and take the first exit at the next roundabout to follow R 610 towards Passage West. Once you passed the Topaz, which is on the left-hand side, turn right at the next traffic light by taking the L2474. You will pass by the Cinnamon Cottage and keep on going for about 400 m until you see the gate at the right-hand side.
GPS: 51°52′13″N 08°23′55″W
And if you want to join me for a walk or hike, please click here for guided walks in Co. Cork