Compiled by
FRANCIS BRADLEY
Cool walkingAn Óige Hillwalkers Club (below) is seeking active hillwalkers to join them on a hike in the Cooley Mountains in Co Louth on Sunday, July 31st. The distance covered will be 18km, with a total ascent of 750m. The walk is open to experienced hillwalkers, and participants are expected to be properly equipped. Meeting at 10am at Burgh Quay, Dublin, transport is by private bus, cost €15. More details at hillwalkersclub.com.
Ballycroy National ParkSummer activities continue at Ballycroy National Park, Co Mayo (visitor centre pictured below). There is a guided walk every Sunday, Monday and Wednesday at 2pm. Children's activities continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays, also at 2pm. The sessions last for one to two hours, and adults are expected to stay for the duration of the activities. These activities are free of charge, but spaces are limited. More details at ballycroynationalpark.ie, ballycroyvisitorcentre @environ.ie or call 098-49888.
Fungus forageLeitrim Landscapes invites you to hunt for mushrooms on Benbo mountain in the Ox mountains on Saturday, July 30th, and also in the woods at Glenfarne Demesne, by the shores of Lough McNean, on Sunday, July 31st. Get to know the geology of Benbo mountain and some of the history of the Tottenham Estate. Two nights self-catering and two walks cost €159pps at Tawnylust Lodge. €25 per day or €40 for two days. Children half price, group rates available. More information at tawnylustlodge.com or from info@tawnylustlodge.com.
The first CastlegregoryWalking Festival is due to take place on the weekend of October 8th and 9th. The programme includes six graded walks, guided by members of Dingle Hillwalking Club. The two difficult walks take in Mount Brandon and the less-well-known, but equally spectacular, Caherconree and Bautregaum. The moderate options include Cuchulain's Ridge, while the easy walks, will be largely on the flat. dinglehillwalkingclub.com