2015 Walks and Events

News, January 4th, 2015

The first walks of the new year saw good numbers out for the three club walks. The A and B groups started together from Clydagh Bridge with leaders Thos O’Neill and George Keogh. They stopped for a photo at the 'Cherish the Galtees' sign, designed and erected by club members, at the entrance to Cush mountain. At the summit of Cush the two groups parted company. The A walkers continued east to the high ground above Lake Muskry where foggy conditions called for the use of their navigation skills and they returned via the lake and forest tracks completing a 19km circuit. Thos would like to thank Tom and Pat for their help. The B group visited misty lakes Borheen and Diheen before returning to the sunshine by the Curra Stile and the new Mountain Meitheal tracks.
In Combaun Wood near Anglesboro Denny O’Dwyer and his C walkers enjoyed a 3 hour loop in cool and bright conditions. This is Denny's report.
On Sunday next the A walkers meet with Pat Ryan at Clydagh Bridge at 10am to complete the horseshoe circuit while Paddy’s B group meets at Bansha Woods car park at 10:30am.
We wish a Happy New Year to all our members and look forward to many more joining us on the hills in 2015.

News, January 11th, 2015

The A walk on Sunday last was Pat Ryan’s Horseshoe loop on the Galtees starting from Clydagh Bridge. Although the weather was dry it became increasingly colder and the winds strengthened as the group of 8 gained altitude above Lake Curra to reach Galtymore. Linking arms to maintain balance against the gale they reached Galtybeag, then descended by the Geisha Steps and the Galtee stile to complete a 14km loop in less than 5 hours.
Paddy Bourke’s B walk was on the forest tracks of Bansha Woods and Slievenamuck. Paddy brought the group of 34 on some paths that even regular visitors to the woods had not known existed. We welcome the new walkers who took part on the day and hope they enjoyed the experience.
The Galtee and Ballyhoura clubs are walking the entire length of the Beara Breifne Way over time and as part of this there are two walks next weekend covering the stretch between Ballyvourney and Newmarket. For those who are not travelling there is a B walk from Rossadrehid Waterworks on Sunday, meeting with Brendan Sheils at 10am and a C walk with Thos O’Neill, meeting at Ballydavid Hostel at 11am.

News, January 18th, 2015, the Beara Breifne Way

Walkers from the Galtee and Ballyhoura clubs headed for Co. Cork last weekend to complete two more sections of the Beara Breifne Way, covering the ground between Ballyvourney and Newmarket. Thanks to Mike and Breda for organising the event and all are looking forward to the next two sections in February.
This is Michael Moroney's report on the weekend.
Closer to home there were two club walks on Sunday. This is Brendan Sheils' report on his B walk.
Thos O’Neill’s C walk was the popular Ballydavid Mast Loop looking out over the Glen of Aherlow and all of Tipperary beyond. The temptation to exchange a few snowballs could not be resisted on the higher tracks above the snow line.
On Sunday next there is an A walk from Cush Car Park with Owen Ryan and a B walk from Rock an Thorabh Car Park with Amelia Ryan, Both starting at 10am.

News, January 25th, 2015

The club’s full attention is now focused on the Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival, which takes place next weekend. Based at Aherlow House Hotel and run in conjunction with Aherlow Failte, the event has a total of seven walks over the two days covering all levels of ability from the strenuous A walks to Galtymore to the more gentle C walks at lower levels. People will travel from all over Ireland and beyond so we hope the local people will also come out and support the event and we look forward to seeing many of you there.
There were two club walks on Sunday last on a day of good walking conditions with just a little for on high ground. Owen Ryan’s A walk saw the group of six cover 16 km in the Galtees with a total height gain of 977 metres. Starting at Cush car park they contoured around the north side of Cush Mountain, climbed Knockastackeen and traversed the shelf over Lake Muskry before returning by the col over Lake Borheen and Galtybeag.
Amelia Ryan’s group of 22 B walkers completed 17.5 km on the forest tracks of Slievenamuck and Bansha Woods on what could have been mistaken for a Spring day. Thanks to both our walk leaders, Owen and Amelia and also Danny and Rody for their help.

Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival, January 31st, February 1st, 2015

The Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival took place last weekend and the snow-covered Galtees provided all the visitors with a magical experience of walking in real winter conditions. Sunday, in particular, was a beautiful day with clear blue skies and excellent visibility, but strong, cold winds on Saturday caused some plans to be changed and meant that stopping for breaks was not an option. The total number on all seven walks was 373, slightly up on last year, and the feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive.
Well done to all who contributed to making the event such a success, including Helen and the Aherlow Failte Society, Aherlow House Hotel, Hillwalking Radio Group, Noel Browne and his bus drivers, Coillte and the local landowners and the County Council. Thanks too to our own leaders and stewards for their expertise on the hills.
Next Sunday’s club outings are an A walk on Red Hill with Liz Breen, meeting at Cappawhite Church and a B walk on the eastern end of the Galtees with Brendan Sheils which meets at the Mountain Road car park, Cahir. Both walks start at 10am.


Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival C walk to Lake Curra on Sunday,February 1st 2015. Leader Sadie Ryan.  Saturday B walk photos,    Sunday B walk photos,    Sunday C walk photos,    Sunday C walk video

News, February 8th, 2015

While most of the lowlands of Ireland were covered in a blanket of fog on Sunday last, the two Galtee club walks got above it all into the bright sunshine and clear blue skies. The views from the high ground were spectacular with neighbouring mountain ranges appearing as islands in a vast white ocean. Liz Breen’s A walk began in Cappawhite and the group of 10 headed for Red Hill to the north of the town enjoying the chat and the laughter on the way and taking in the memorial to the 1968 plane crash on the 440 metre high point. Many thanks to Liz for the walk and the biscuit cake.
Down in Cahir, Brendan Sheils brought his group of 10 B walkers on a 4 hour, 12.5km loop on the eastern Galtees, taking in the peaks of Bane at 449 metres and Slieveanard at 438 metres. The clear air above the fog allowed for views as far as the Nagles, the Blackstairs and Keeper Hill. As usually happens with a walk from the Mountain Road car park, Buddy the dog accompanied the walkers all the way round, totally ignoring the club's no dogs rule. Thanks to Brendan and also to Anne for her local knowledge. A welcome to Monica and Marie, walking with the club for the first time.
Next weekend sees two further stages of the Beara-Breifne Way, this time covering the ground between Newmarket and Kilfinane. There’s also a B walk on Sunday, meeting with Tom Lyons at the new Glengarra car park at 10am and a C walk with Josephine Tierney, meeting in Bansha Woods car park at 11am.

News, February 15th, 2015

Last weekend saw walkers from the Galtee Walking Club and the Ballyhoura Bears complete two more sections of the Beara-Breifne Way under the skillful leadership of Mike Moroney. Over the Saturday and Sunday they walked from Newmarket in Co. Cork to Kilfinane in Co. limerick, crossing over some of the Ballyhoura range. Well done to all, particularly those who have completed all nine sections so far walked.
For those who did not travel there were two club walks closer to home. The B walk, led by Tom Lyons also met up with some Ballyhoura Bears as they made their way to O'Loughlin's Castle in the Galtees from Glengarra Wood. This is Tom's report.
Some new walkers and others returning after an extended break brought the numbers on Josephine Tierney's C walk up to 39, the highest for a Sunday walk so far this year. Josephine's route was was a track loop through the mature trees of Bansha Woods, taking in the Millennium Stone, all in perfect weather conditions for walking.
On Sunday next the A walk is a 21km outing in the Knockmealdowns, meeting in Newcastle with Gerard Sheehy at 9:30am. Anne O'Donnell's B walk in the Galtees meets at Galtee Castle Car Park at 10am while Mary O’Riordan's C walk starts from Rock an Thorabh Car Park at 11am.

News, February 22nd, 2015

There’s very little positive that can be said about the weather on Sunday last apart from the fact that it wasn’t cold but despite the constant rain the three scheduled club walks went ahead.
Gerard Sheehy’s A walk was a challenging 22km loop on the Knockmealdowns.  This is Gerard's report.
Anne O’Donnell’s B walk in the Galtees stayed lower than originally planned and took in parts of the Glounreagh and Attychraan valleys from the start at Galtee Castle. Despite the rain there was much of interest to see along the way including spectacular waterfalls, a lone deer and a mountain hare.
Over on Slievenamuck a happy band of C walkers enjoyed Mary O’Riordan’s loop on both sides of the hill, going as far as the dolmen from the start at Rock an Thorabh car park. A warning at the start not to pass the leader meant that all were well behaved and nobody dared to walk off ahead of the others
The two walks on Sunday next are an A walk from Galtee Castle with Joe Browne and a B walk on the Cush Circuit from Clydagh Bridge with Helen Gleeson and Sadie Ryan, both meeting at 10am.

News, March 1st, 2015

The first day of March began wet and windy which led to many walkers deciding to stay at home but those who decided to travel were rewarded by a great improvement just as the walks started and even blue skies and sunshine as they progressed.
Thanks to Joe Browne for the ‘A’walk on the southern side of the Galtees which began from Galtee Castle car park. Thanks also to Helen Gleeson and Sadie Ryan who brought the ‘B’ walkers around the 12km lower Cush circuit  in well under four hours. Conditions were a little wet underfoot but all the climbing was wind-assisted by a strong breeze from the west.
There's plenty of variety in next Sunday's fare as Michael Moroney heads to Kerry for an 'A' walk in the Reeks, meeting at Kate Kearney's Cottage at 9:30am. Good luck to Tomás Ó'Briain, leading his first 'B' walk with the club, which will be in the Ballyhouras, meeting at Ballyorgan School at 10am. C walkers can look forward to Therese Roche's outing in Bansha Woods, which meets in the car park there at 11am.

News, March 8th, 2015

Well done to Tomás Ó Briain who led his first walk for the club onSunday last in the Ballyhoura Mountains. To begin,Tomás brought his 9 strong group of B walkers on a beautiful part of the Canon Sheehan loop along the Ogeen river, then to the Glenanaar stile, Long Mountain, Pigeon Rock and on to Seefin, the highest point at 528 metres. The return was again through the Glenanaar forest, completing 18km in over 4 hours. Thanks to Tomás and also to Brendan for all his advice and help.
A group of 30 C walkers were in Bansha Woods where Therese Roche brought them through the maze of forest tracks before crossing the Ballagh Road and looping around to the Millennium Stone. Here some took a shorter route back to the cars while most did an extra loop around the mast before returning. Thanks to Therese and also to Mike Moroney who was in Kerry with his A group on the Eastern Reeks. This is Mike's report of his walk.
Preparation for the Slievenamuck Marathon continues on Sunday next as Rody Tierney’s A walk covers the western half of the route, meeting at Rock an Thorabh car park at 10am. Mary Moynihan’s B walk meets at Rossadrehid Waterworks, also at 10 while the C walkers meet at King’s Yard at 11am with Denny O’Dwyer who plans to walk the Attychraan Loop.

News, March 15th, 2015

As the Slievenamuck Marathon date draws near Rody Tierney’s A walkers were in preparatory mode on Sunday last, covering the western half of the route from Rock an Thorabh car park to Moor Abbey and back. This is Rody's report.
Mary Moynihan’s B walk was an expedition to the heart of the Galtees starting from Rossadrehid Waterworks and taking in Knockastackeen before crossing to the teardrop lake of Bohreen beneath Galtybeag. Thanks to Mary for this interesting route, new to many of the walkers, and also for producing the homemade buns for the break at the lake.
This is Denny O'Dwyer's report on his C walk on the Attychraan Loop.
Danny Bailey continues the Marathon preparation on Sunday next covering the eastern half, meeting at Rock an Thorabh car park at 10am. Liam Doheny’s B walk meets at Woodies, Clonmel at 10am and there is a C walk meeting at the same place at 11am, which will join the B walkers at Lake Mohra.

News, March 22nd, 2015

The stage is set and preparation is complete for the Slievenamuck Marathon and Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday next, Palm Sunday. Now in its seventh year, the event is well established on the national walking calendar and also attracts an increasing number of runners each year. The figure of eight route is largely forest track, forming two loops, east and west, taking in both the north and south sides of the Slievenamuck ridge. Anyone who feels they have the necessary level of fitness is welcome to take part. The registration fee is €10 and all details are on the Marathon page.
On the Schedule page of this website are details of all club walks up to next August, including all the Wednesday evening walks which take place throughout the summer months. The schedule of Sunday walks is better than ever with the popular C walks now taking place every week rather than fortnightly as before. All grades of walks have plenty of variety and cover a range of locations stretching from Clare to Waterford and north to Laois.
Thanks to Danny Bailey and to Liam and Shane Doheny for the club walks on Sunday last which took place in beautiful sunny conditions. Danny's walk, in preparation for the Marathon next Sunday, was on the Kilshane side of the route. The 14 walkers covered the 22km distance in 4 hours and 20 minutes, stopping for a photo break at Christ the King statue and a lunch break at Bansha Woods car park. Danny extends a special welcome to a new couple from Galbally.
Liam and Shane's B walk started at the entrance to Moanyarha Bog in the Comeraghs and climbed to Knocksheegowna at a height of 678 metres before travelling south along the ridge and descending to Lake Mohra on the eastern side. Here they met up with a group of C walkers who had taken a much easier route to the lake and the combined group of 38 walked out together on forest tracks, the C walkers returning to their cars and the B walkers continuing along the Drover Road to their finish at Harney's Cross.
Let’s hope the wonderful weather experienced last weekend will be repeated for the Marathon on Sunday next.

Slievenamuck Marathon, March 29th, 2015

Last Sunday’s main event on the walking calendar was the Slievenamuck Marathon on its now familiar figure of eight route overlooking the scenic Glen of Aherlow and the Galtee Mountains. The seventh running of the event saw a total of 98 people arrive at the start early in the day, despite the damp weather and the clocks going forward. Luckily the rain cleared before Galtee Walking Club president, Danny Bailey cut the tape to get everyone on their way. Runners and walkers headed off through the Nature Park and east to Bansha Woods before returning to the base at Rock an Thorabh car park. Those doing the Half Marathon ended here while the Full Marathon participants completed another 22km loop westwards as far as Moor Abbey. From mid-day on a steady stream of people with tired legs and happy faces crossed the finish line, each having completed their own individual challenge.
As usual there are many people to thank, not least all the club members who gave of their time over the past days and weeks. We also thank Helen and the Civil Defence, the Radio Group, Coillte and the generous local landowners.

News, April 5th, 2015

With the lengthening hours of daylight it’s time for the Club’s Wednesday evening walks to get under way again. These are always very popular and attract large numbers each week. Many people join the club at this time of year specifically to take part in these evening outings. In all there are 21 Wednesday walks throughout the summer months, good value for the 40 euro membership fee even without considering all the Sunday walks also available. The locations are all around the Galtees and Glen of Aherlow area and the first walk on April 8 starts from Clydagh Bridge at 7pm. On April 15 the meeting point is Christ the King Statue, Aherlow.
On Saturday next there is Spring-Clean organised for the Galtees and the Glen and all members are encouraged to give a few hours of their time to help remove the blight of litter from the area.
On Sunday, April 12 the ‘A’ walk is the spectacular Coumshingaun Horseshoe, meeting at Kilclooney Wood car park at 10am with Owen Ryan. The ‘B’ walk is a joint effort between Margaret Hayes and Amelia Ryan in the Slieve Felims, meeting at Cappamore Community Centre at 10am. Peig McGrath’s ‘C’ walk is 3 hours at a gentle pace from Galtee Castle car park, beginning at 11am.  
Thanks to Danny Bailey for a combined A and B walk from Clydagh Bridge in the warm sunshine on Easter Sunday. A 10 strong C group with Sadie Ryan also completed a 2.5 hour loop from the same point and the regular walkers welcomed two new members, Sheila & Seamus.
Several club members also took part in the Pilgrim Paths Day walk over the Knockmealdowns from Melleray to Ardfinnan on Easter Saturday. Well done to Knockmealdown Active and the Peaks club for a very professionally run event.

Galtymore with the Taioseach, Enda Kenny, April 7th 2015

I recently had the pleasure of guiding a group of 12 walkers from Co Mayo to the summit of Galtymore which for them was their first time. The route chosen was from Cush middle car park onto forest track via Saunders Lodge to the Galty stile. We then climbed to the ridge above Lough Diheen and dined for a while. We ascended across the north face to the cross at the summit on what was a beautiful calm sunny day. All of the group summited including An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, who was totally enjoying the experience and all had a toast to mark the occasion. We descended to the wall and onto the coll above Lough Curra to the stoney man, grassy knoll, Curra stile and back to the car park for liquid refreshments. A great day was had by all and a great pleasure for me as a member of the Galtee Walking Club to help An Taoiseach to the summit of our beloved Galtees.
Owen Ryan

Clean-up day, Saturday, April 11th, 2015

The annual clean-up day in the Galtees and the Glen area took place on Saturday, April 11th in perfect weather conditions for the job. Members of the Galtee club joined the team from Limerick Climbing Club to clean the main parking areas such as Cush, Rossadrehid, Rock an Thorabh and the Ballagh Road.

News, April 12th, 2015

It was a busy week for the club with the first of the evening walks taking place on Wednesday, a litter clean-up day on Saturday and three club outings on Sunday. Several new walkers turned up for Sadie Ryan’s well-attended first Wednesday walk in the evening sunshine. The next evening walk starts from Christ the King statue on April 15 at 7pm.
Sunday last started wet which kept numbers relatively small on the club walks but, as usual, those who ventured out were well rewarded for their efforts. Peig McGrath’s ‘C’ walk was a 3 hour loop in the Galtee Castle, King’s Yard area in the valleys of the Attychraan and Glounreagh rivers. This is Peig's report.
The ‘B’ walk, with Margaret Hayes and Amelia Ryan, was in the Slieve Felims, meeting at Cappamore. After a short drive to a forest entrance north of the town the group took the bog road west as far as Glenstal Wood. As the weather improved through the morning, views of the Shannon around Killaloe became clear. The return journey was on part of the Slieve Felim Way and as the group descended the southern side of the hill a wide vista of the East Limerick countryside opened up.
Owen Ryan’s ‘A’ walk was the Coumshingaun Horseshoe in the Comeraghs.
Next Sunday’s ‘A’ walk meets at Rossadrehid Waterworks at 10am, with Pat Ryan. Pat Donovan’s ‘B’ walk meets at Clydagh Bridge also at 10 and the ‘C’ walk from Galbally at 11am is under the combined leadership of Trish O’Brien and Catherine Sharpe.

News, April 19th, 2015

Last Sunday was a beautiful clear sunny day, perfect for the three club walks. Pat Ryan’s 17km ‘A’ walk in the Galtees was a trial run for his walk in the Aherlow Festival on May 31st from Ballydavid to Rossadrehid Waterworks. This is Pat's report.
Thanks to Pat Donovan who was also in the Galtees with his ‘B’ group, completing the high horseshoe route of Cush, Galtybeag and Galtymore in 4.5 hours. This is Pat's 'B' walk report.
A large group of ‘C’ walkers turned up in Galbally to support Trish O’Brien and Catherine Sharpe on their first outing as walk leaders. All enjoyed their trip around the Darby’s Bed Loop, now in full colour with the spring wild flowers and alive with bird-song. Well done to both ladies.
On Sunday next Willie Delahunty’s ‘A’ walk on the eastern Galtees meets at Kilcoran Hotel at 10am. Gerry Ryan meets the ‘B’ walkers at the Centra Service Station, Newport at 9:45am, for his climb of Keeper Hill. The evening walk on Wednesday 22nd meets at Aherlow House Hotel.

News, April 26th, 2015

Temperatures dropped on Sunday last as cold air from the north spread down over Ireland but this had the advantage of producing clear blue skies and crystal clear visibility, perfect for the two club walks on the day. Willie Delahunty’s ‘A’ walk was on the eastern Galtees, starting from Kilcoran. The recent fires on the mountain provided bare ground underfoot, making walking easy on the 15km loop which took in parts of Farbreaga and Greenane as well as a visit to the ruined farmhouse.
Sadie Ryan took the ‘B’ group to the top of Keeper Hill after meeting in Newport. Thanks to both Willie and Sadie for their excellent leadership and thanks also to Rody for his help with the 'A' walk.
There are no club walks on Sunday next as the Ballyhoura International Walking Festival is on over the weekend and many members will be participating in some of the wide variety of walks. On the following Sunday, May 10, the ‘A’ walkers meet in Cappawhite at 10am with Liz Breen, the ‘B’ group meets at Galtee Castle Car Park, also at 10am, with Anne O’Donnell and Mary O’Riordan’s ‘C’ walk to Lake Muskry starts from Rossadrehid Waterworks at 11am.
The popular Wednesday evening walks continue with starting points on April 29 at the Silver Sands and on May 6 in Galbally Village, both at 7pm.

News, May 10th, 2015

Thanks to Mary O’Riordan, Anne O’Donnell and Liz Breen for providing the club walks on Sunday last. Mary’s well attended ‘C’ walk was to the largest of the Galtee lakes, Lake Muskry, and it was good to see some of the younger generation of walkers taking part. Anne’s ‘B’ walk was a 10km loop in the Attychraan Valley and Knocknagalty area, a place rich in flowing rivers, waterfalls, old stone buildings from previous ages and woodland paths through beech trees in their spring greenery. Liz brought her ‘A’ group on to Red Hill, north of the meeting point at Cappawhite village.
The evening walks continue and on Wednesday last, May 6, Mary Ryan brought a 40 strong group on the Darby’s Bed loop from Galbally. Thanks to Mary and a special thanks also to Henry Fraser in the village for providing a great spread of sandwiches, cakes and tea to all the walkers after the event.
The next evening walk is from Rock an Thorabh Car Park on May 13 at 7pm with Eddie McGrath. The Sunday walks for May 17 are an ‘A’ walk from Galtee Castle at 10am with Joe Browne, a ‘B’ walk in the Slieve Blooms with Brendan Sheils, meeting at the Topaz Garage, Mountmellick Rd. Portlaoise at 10am and a ‘C’ walk in Cratloe Wood with Cecilia O'Dwyer, meeting at the Tesco Car Park, Coonagh, at 11am.

News, May 17th, 2015

We are grateful to Joe Browne, Brendan Sheils and Cecilia O'Dwyer for providing the three club walks on Sunday last. Cecilia in particular deserves congratulations on being a first-time walk facilitator with her outing to Cratloe Woods in Co. Clare. The area gets its name from the Irish for the land of the Sally trees. It was a lovely walk through forest tracks with a great view of the Shannon Estuary. 16 people walked and there was a lovely end to the day in the playground.
Joe’s ‘A’ walk was in the western Galtees, starting from Galtee Castle car park while Brendan’s ‘B’ walkers travelled to Laois for a joint walk in the Slieve Blooms with the Navan Trekkers from Meath. The combined group completed a 19km loop, which took in part of the Slieve Bloom Way, the source of the River Barrow and the impressive Glenbarrow waterfall. This is Brendan's report of the walk.
On Sunday next, May 24, Rody Tierney’s ‘A’ walk is on the Galtees, starting from Clydagh Bridge at 10am. ‘B’ walkers will be delighted to see the return of the Vee to Melleray walk with Mossy Casey, meeting at Bay Lough car park at 10am while Liam Doheny’s ‘C’ walk, which meets at Woodie’s, Clonmel, at 11am is in the scenic Glasha valley near Kilsheelan.
The following weekend is the June Bank Holiday and time for the Aherlow Walking Festival when we hope to see large numbers visit the Glen for the many walks led by club members.

News, May 24th, 2015

The Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival takes place over the June Bank holiday weekend with a total of 12 walks over the three days. There is something to suit every level of fitness so the Galtee club and Aherlow Failte would like to see as many people as possible come and experience the wonderful resource we have in the Galtees and Glen area. A Festival barbeque and musical entertainment in the local hostelries completes the weekend package.
Rody Tierney, Mossy Casey and Liam and Shane Doheny took charge of the three club walks on Sunday last in excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities. Rody’s ‘A’ walk was a 15km loop in the Galtees, taking in the summits of Knockastakeen and Cush as well as a visit to Borheen Lough. This is Rody's report.
 Mossy’s ‘B’ group traversed the Knockmealdowns from Bay Lough to Melleray, following the course of the monastery water supply to reach their reward in the coffee shop at the end.
The ‘C’ walkers, with Liam and Shane, enjoyed a 12km trek in the northern Comeraghs on parts of the Glenpatrick Loop and forest tracks along the Glasha River, finishing on the green road back to Harney’s Cross.
The evening walk on Wednesday, May 27th, meets at Cappawhite Church at 7pm when Margaret Hayes will lead the walkers on Red Hill.

News, May 31st, 2015

A fantastic team effort by a large number of people brought about another very successful Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival last weekend. The three-day event brought well over 200 visitors to the area to walk the Galtees and Slievenamuck under the leadership of experienced Galtee Walking Club Members. There was something to suit everyone, from family friendly nature rambles to strenuous 7-hour climbs on the high Galtees. The weather was mixed with Sunday the best day for visibility and sunshine.
Thanks to all who made the event a success, including Helen and the Aherlow Failte committee and staff, the walk leaders and stewards, Noel Browne and his bus drivers, Hillwalking Radio, all who provided the excellent food for the hungry walkers on their return, all who administered the registration of walkers, the Gardai, the GAA for providing parking and the farmers who generously allowed access to their land.
Club outings on Sunday next are a ‘B’ walk on the Knockanaffrin Ridge, meeting at Woodie’s car park, Clonmel at 10am and a ‘C’ walk from Rock an Thorabh car park at 11am with Pat Kinane. Evening walks continue with the Dolmen Loop from Lisvernane Village with Breda Ryan on Wednesday, June 3, at 7pm.

News, June 7th, 2015

It was a pleasure to be out in the fine weather on Sunday last on either of the two club walks. Paddy Bourke’s 11km linear ‘B’ walk was on the Knockanafrin Ridge in the Comeraghs, starting from the Nire car park and finishing at the Council chip depot near the TV mast. The top of the ridge is a fantastic vantage point for 360degree views of mountains, lakes and patchwork countryside.
Thanks and congratulations are also due to Pat Kinane, leading his first ‘C’ walk for the club after starting at the deep end on the Aherlow Festival last weekend. Pat stayed close to home, taking his group around the forest tracks on Slievenamuck.
On Sunday next, June 14, the ‘A’ walk is in the Galtees with Thos O’Neill, meeting at Clydagh Bridge at 10am. ‘B’ walkers travel to Clare to climb the county high point of Moylussa, meeting with Goretti Campbell at Goosers Restaurant, Ballina at 10:30am. Catherine Russel’s ‘C’ group meets at Clydagh Bridge at 11am to climb to Lake Curra. Anne O’Donnell’s evening walk on June 10 meets at Mountain Road Cahir at 7pm. For the really hardy among us, Mike Moroney is leading a walk on the entire 90km length of the Ballyhoura Way on Saturday next, June 13.

Wednesday Evening Walk, June 10th, 2015

News, June 14th, 2015

Conditions were perfect for all the events of last weekend. On Sunday, Thos O’Neill’s ‘A; walk was the Galtymore high horseshoe, completed in 5 hours in glorious sunshine. 7 walkers took part including Proinsias from Kildare. There were plenty of other walkers out including a group from Mid Tipp Hillwalkers doing the crossing and also the Bandon club on their way to Galtymore.
The ‘B’ walkers, with Goretti Campbell, climbed from the shore of Lough Derg near Killaloe to Moylussa, the highest point in Co. Clare.This is Goretti's report.
‘C’ walkers took the Ice Road to Lake Curra in the company of Catherine Russell.
Congratulations to those who completed the entire 90km Ballyhoura Way on Saturday, led by Mike Moroney. It was a fantastic achievement by all.
Next weekend will be one of the busiest for a long time. On Saturday and Sunday Mike Moroney will lead on the two local sections of the Beara-Breifne Way as part of the plan to cover the entire route. At 3:30am on Sunday morning Mary Murphy’s Summer Solstice climb to greet the sunrise on Slieve Reagh will take place from Glenbrohane. The two Sunday club walks are a ‘B’ walk on Brandon Hill and the South Leinster Way in Kilkenny with Liam and Shane Doheny, meeting at Woodies, Clonmel at 9:30am and a ‘C’ walk with Anne O’Donnell, meeting at Galtee Castle car park at 11am. The club’s biggest event of the year, the Galtee Challenge and Crossing takes place on the following Sunday, June 28. Evening walks continue with Tom Lyons and Sheila Lenihan on Wednesday 17th, meeting in Anglesboro at 7pm. Tom will take the stronger walkers to the top of Temple Hill while Sheila will stay lower on forest tracks.

 

News, June 21st, 2015

The Galtee Walking Club’s main event of the year, the Galtee Challenge and Crossing takes place on Sunday next. Participants from all around Ireland and abroad have been registering for the event and registration through galteewalkingclub.ie will close on the night of Wednesday June 24. We look forward to a great day on the mountain and hope the weather will be in our favour. Good luck to all taking part.
Last weekend was a busy one with two more sections of the Beara-Breifne Way, from Kilfinnane to Cappawhite, walked under the guidance of Mike Moroney. In the early hours of Sunday morning another group gathered in Glenbrohane for a climb to watch the sunrise on the summit of Slievereagh.
The final two Sunday club walks before the summer break also took place. Anne O’Donnell, who hadn’t got much sleep after watching the sunrise, was out in the Glounreagh Valley area of the southern Galtees with her group of ‘C’ walkers, taking in the wooden bridge and the ruined farmhouse. Liam and Shane Doheny were in their home county of Kilkenny for a climb to that county’s highest point of Brandon Hill and a trek along the South Leinster Way to finish at a restaurant in the postcard village of Inistioge.
As the Sunday walks end for now we must thank all the facilitators who provided such interesting and varied walks over the past months and also the schedule organisers for putting them all together. We look forward to September when it all starts again and in the meantime we have the Wednesday evening walks to keep us fit and happy for the summer.
 

Galtee Challenge/Crossing, Sunday, June 28th, 2015

The Sunday schedule of the Galtee Walking Club ended last weekend with the biggest event of the year, the Galtee Challenge and Crossing. This year’s event was run in parallel with Munster Hill Runners traverse of the range and between the two groups there were close to 180 people out on the mountain.
The route was from Cahir to Anglesboro, a distance of 31km with a total height gain of 1730 metres, taking in all the major peaks. The weather could not have been much better, dry and bright with a cooling breeze. Visibility was excellent, meaning that finding their way was not a problem for the self-navigating Challenge group and the mountains were looking their best for all the visiting walkers. Participants came from all around Ireland and some even travelled from as far as Denmark and The Netherlands to take part.
As usual there is a large team of people to thank for another mission successfully accomplished. Thanks to those who worked so hard on the day, both at the base in Anglesboro and out on the mountain with the walkers under Rody’s leadership. Thanks also to the bus providers, the caterers and the landowners for allowing us access. Well done also to the team of club members who spent months planning and preparing for the event.
Challenge/Crossing photos    Video by Sebastian Nalewko of 4x4sb.com
 

Wednesday Evening Walk, July 15th, 2015

Wednesday Evening Walk, July 22nd, 2015

Wednesday Evening Walk, August 5th, 2015

The things you can find on a walk!

Wednesday Evening Walk, August 19th, 2015

Fei Sheehy Challenge, August 21, 22 and 23, 2015

This three day crossing of the Comeragh, Galtee and Knockmealdown ranges took place on Friday, August 21st, Saturday, August 22nd and Sunday August 23rd. Gerard Sheehy's report on the event is available here. There is also a video/collage of the three days located here on YouTube.

Slovenia Trip 2015

This year’s Galtee Walking Club adventure was to The Slovenian Alps. Twenty seven members took part. The base was Kranjska Gora, a town on the Sava River in north-western Slovenia, close to the Austrian and Italian borders.



Over the last few years the club mission was to visit the Alps in every country and this was the last one on the list. The Alps in this area are known as the Julian Alps. What a gem they were! Our accommodation was Apart Hotel Vijolica (owner Joze) and Apartment Helena (owner Gregor, his wife and his Mam) who looked after us so well during the week.
The town provides an excellent base for walkers and cyclists - there are marked walks suitable for everyone from beginners to the very experienced mountaineer.

Hiking adventures
1.  Hike from Kranjska Gora to Vršič Pass (1611 meters). The Vršič Pass is the highest pass in Slovenia, as well as the highest in the Eastern Julian Alps. It connects Upper Carniola with the Trenta Valley in the Slovene Littoral, rising from Kranjska Gora. For cyclists, the road has a series of 50 hairpin bends traversing the high mountains near the Slovenian-Italian-Austrian border


2.  Vintgar gorge  - Slovenia is a country of stunning accessible waterfalls. Along the narrow passage, where the Radovna river thrashes loudly against its rocky confines, there are paths and bridges constructed in the rock. The trail runs through the 1600 m long gorge. The Radovna flows over cascades and rapids. The Vintgar gorge ends at the delightful Šum waterfall, the highest river fall in Slovenia. At the waterfall the trail leaves the Radovna and rises up a track heading south-east to the chapel of St Catherine above Zasip.


3.  Hike from Kranjska Gora to the Martuljek waterfalls. The upper fall is over 100m high and the lower one around 30m. The lower fall is quite spectacular, set in a deep rocky gorge. The higher fall is much higher on the mountain and has cut a deep groove in the rockface.
 

4.  The panoramic Mt. Mala Mojstrovka (2332 metres) is (thanks to Vršič mountain pass) one of the most quickly accessible and consequently most visited 2000-meter peaks in the central Julian Alps. The 360 degree view of the Julian Alps from the top is spectacular.


5. Triglav, with an elevation of 2,864 metres is the highest mountain in Slovenia and also the highest mountain in the former Yugoslavia. It is the highest peak of the Julian Alps. It is Slovenia’s national symbol. Its pyramid shape summit rises above central Julian Alps and is clearly visible from far and near. As the highest mountain, it has stirred the imagination of explorers, hikers and climbers for centuries. The ascent to Triglav is no joke. The route is long and in the upper part very exposed, full of stemples and steel cables. The upper part demands mountaineering experience and a careful step. Owen Ryan planned on reaching the summit and Mike Moroney planned on accompanying him to the Triglavski mountain hut at 2515 metres. The hut is located on the mountain ridge between Rjavina and Triglav summit. Both Owen and Mike achieved their goal. The rest of the club gave the two boys a rapturous round of applause when they entered the restaurant in victory and never did a steak taste so good.

 
Sightseeing
1.  Lake Bled - The lake is of glacial origins. It is 2,120 m (6,960 ft) long and 1,380 m (4,530 ft) wide and has a small island (Bled Island) in the centre. The lake is situated in a picturesque environment, surrounded by mountains and forests. The medieval Bled Castle stands above the lake on the north shore. Bled Island has several buildings, the main one being the pilgrimage church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary.


2.  Ljubljana.  There was a day trip organised to visit the capital city of Ljubljana. After coffee in the sun along the canal the group took a very leisurely canal tour of the city followed by some retail therapy.

 
Cycling
A big highlight of the trip was for the 17 cyclists who completed the Three Country Bike tour organised by Gerard Ryan. The group had breakfast in Slovenia, coffee in Italy and dinner at a biker bar in Austria.

 
Additional activities included paragliding, tobogganing (without snow) and swimming in a freezing glacier lake.


The Galtee Walking Club would like to say a huge thank you to Breda, Pat and Gerard Ryan for the superb job that they did in organising it. And well done to the Galtee Walking Club on completing the tour of the Alps in every country!

Report: Helen Shanahan
Aidan Dilworth's photos
David Stapleton's photos
Ann Donohoe's photos on the Club Gallery
Helen Shanahan's video from Mt. Mala Mojstrovka (2332 metres)
Paragliding video

News, September 6th, 2015

A new season of Sunday walks has begun for the Galtee Walking Club and there is a full schedule to take us to the end of the year. The hurling final on Sunday last gave a sense of urgency to the three club outings and all were completed in time to be home for the game. Rody Tierney’s ‘A’ walk and Paddy Bourke’s ‘B’ walk were in the Galtees with Rody reaching Slievecushnabinna from the north and Paddy climbing to Galtymore from the Black Road to the south.
This is Rody's report
Paddy welcomed Johanna from Germany, Luzia from Switzerland and 14 year old Darran from Tipperary as guests on his walk.
Eddie and Peig McGrath brought their group of ‘C’ walkers on a riverbank walk along the Suir. This is their report
Thanks to all walk leaders.
On Sunday next Tomás O'Briain takes a combined group of ‘A’ and ‘B’ walkers to the Doon Waterfall and Knockshanahullion in the Knockmealdowns, starting from Bay Lough car park at 10am and Sadie Ryan’s ‘C’ walk on the Dolmen Loop begins in Lisvernane Village at 11am. New walkers are welcome for the new season and membership is now open for the coming year.

News, September 13th, 2015

There’s a full list of club walks scheduled for Sunday next, September 20, all starting from different points in the Glen of Aherlow. Ann Donohoe’s ‘A’ group meets at Clydagh Bridge at 10am to take on the Galtee Horseshoe loop. ‘B’ walkers will climb Knockastackeen and visit Lake Bohreen under the guidance of Mary Moynihan, meeting at Rossadrehid Waterworks at 10am and Eddie McGrath’s ‘C’ walk on Slievenamuck will leave from Rock an Thorabh car park at 11am. As we are at the beginning a new walking season and approaching the start of the club year it is a good time for anyone thinking of joining the club to come along on one of our walks and sample the experience of walking our local hills and woods.
Sunday last was a disappointing day from a weather point of view but despite the rain the two club walks went ahead. Thanks to Tomás Ó'Briain for providing a combined ‘A’ and ‘B’ walk in the Knockmealdowns, visiting Doon Waterfall and Knockshanahullion. Tomás sent this report on the walk:

Thanks to Sadie Ryan for taking the 20 ‘C’ walkers around the Dolmen Loop from Lisvernane with an extension via Aherlow House at the end.

News, September 20th, 2015

It was another Sunday and another soaking for the Galtee walkers who ventured out on the hills last weekend. Rain and strong winds made conditions difficult for the three groups who started from various points in the Glen of Aherlow area. Our thanks to Ann Donohoe, Mary Moynihan and Eddie McGrath for getting all in their charge out and back safely.
Next Sunday’s walks are more widely distributed through the county with Tom Lyons meeting his ‘A’ group on the southern side of the Galtees at 10am at Galtee Castle car park. ‘B’ walkers meet with Gerry Ryan at Centra Service Station, Newport, at 9:45am to climb Keeper Hill and further east Patricia Butler’s ‘C’ walkers meet in Kilcommon at 11am to complete the Pilgrim Loop from the village.

News, September 27th, 2015

After two rainy Sundays it was a pleasure to have fine weather for the club walks on Sunday last. Tom Lyons was out with the ‘A’ group on the southern side of the Galtees. This is Tom's report.
 Gerry Ryan’s ‘B’ group met in Newport for a climb to the top of Keeper Hill. Here is Gerry's report.
 Farther east the ‘C’ walkers enjoyed the Pilgrim Loop from Kilcommon Village with Patricia Butler, taking a break at the Mass Rock and a visit to the Prayer Garden at the end.
The ‘A’ walk on Sunday next, October 4, meets at Clydagh Bridge with Joe Browne at 10am. Anne O’Donnell’s ‘B’ walk starts from Galtee Castle car park near Kilbeheny, also at 10am, while the ‘C’ walkers will visit Lake Muskry, meeting at Rossadrehid Waterworks at 11am.

News, October 4th, 2015

Our three walk leaders on Sunday last were Joe Browne, Anne O’Donnell and Paddy Bourke. Joe’s six ‘A’ walkers started from Clydagh Bridge and made their way to Lake Diheen from where they climbed the steep north face of Galtee Beag. Dense fog enveloped them as they descended by the Geisha Steps and the final peak of the day was Cush before returning to the cars. The loop took just three hours, fifteen minutes to complete.
Anne’s ‘B’ walk was on the southern side of the Galtees taking in the Attychraan and Glounreagh valleys on a loop filled with flowing streams, waterfalls, ruined farmhouses from bygone days and peaceful grazing cattle which seem to have replaced the sheep in that area.
Back on the other side of the mountain Paddy took his group of ‘C’ walkers to Lake Muskry, following the river on the ascent and returning down on the well-worn track.
On Sunday next Tomás Ó'Briain is in the Ballyhouras for the ‘B’ walk meeting at Ballyorgan School at 10am and Goretti Campbell’s ‘C’ walk starts from Clydagh Bridge at 11am.

News, October 11th, 2015

Last Sunday began with fog and poor visibility at first but brightened to clear skies and warm autumnal sunshine as the day went on. There were two club walks on the day, led by Tomás Ó'Briain and Goretti Campbell. Goretti’s ‘C’ walk began at Clydagh Bridge in the Glen and some walkers got as far as Lake Curra. This is Goretti's report.
Tomás was in the Ballyhouras with his ‘B’ group, covering 18km of wonderfully varied territory, starting from Glenanaar and taking in Seefin, the highest point in the range at 528 metres. This is his report.
Thanks and well done to both leaders.
There’s a full schedule of walks on Sunday next. Willie Delahunty’s ‘A’ walk starts from Kilcoran Lodge Hotel at 10am, the ‘B’ walk under the guidance of Margaret Hayes meets at Clydagh Bridge at 10am and Therese Roche’s ‘C’ group will meet at Rock an Thorabh Car Park at 11am. The club AGM will take place in the Excel Centre, Tipperary Town, on Thursday, October 22 and all members and prospective members are encouraged to attend.

News, October 18th, 2015

The time has come again for the Annual General Meeting of the Galtee Walking Club which takes place in the Excel Centre in Tipperary Town on Thursday, October 22, at 8pm. All members and prospective members are not only welcome but also encouraged to attend.
Walks continued on Sunday last with three events taking place, all completed quickly due to a certain rugby match in Cardiff. Willie Delahunty’s ‘A’ walkers started from Kilcoran Lodge on the southern side of the Galtees and climbed to the top of the ridge at point 597 before descending. On the northern side of the mountain Margaret Hayes reached similar heights with her ‘B’ group, visiting Lake Diheen from a starting point at Clydagh Bridge. The work of Mountain Meitheal on the steps to the Galtee Stile was admired by all on both the ascent and descent. On Slievenamuck Therese Roche led her ‘C’ group on a Forest Track loop from the Rock an Thorabh car park.
On Sunday next the combined ‘A’ and ‘B’ walk with Danny Bailey starts from Aherlow House Hotel at 10am and Willie Kavanagh’s ‘C’ walk meets at Bansha Woods car park at 11am.

News, October 25th, 2015

The Annual General Meeting of the Galtee Walking Club was held last week at the Excel Theatre.

The following is a list of officers in the club:

President: Danny Bailey
Chairman: Owen Ryan
Vice Chairman: Tom Lyons
Secretary: Helen Gleeson
Treasurers: Anne O Donnell and Amelia Ryan
PRO: David Stapleton

Committee: Sadie Ryan, Breda Ryan, Josephine Tierney, Rody Tierney, Joe Browne, Paddy Bourke, Dinny O'Dwyer, Thomas O'Neill, Ger Sheehy, Pat Kinane, Brendan Sheils, Pat Ryan, Eddie McGrath, Kevin O'Sullivan, George Keogh

A walk coordinators: Pat Ryan, Joe Browne, Rody Tierney
B walk coordinators: Brendan Sheils, Paddy Bourke
C walk coordinators: Sadie Ryan, Una Phelan, Pat Kinane

Thanks to Danny Bailey and Willie Kavanagh for the walks on Sunday last.
The next two sections of the Beara-Breifne Way take place on Saturday and Sunday next, October 31 and November 1, covering the ground between Cappawhite and Toomyvara over a total distance of 51km.
On Sunday the 'B' walk with David Stapleton meets at Woodies, Clonmel at 10am and George Keogh's 'C' walk starts from Clydagh Bridge at 11am.

News, November 1st, 2015

Beara Breffni way October 31 and November 1
Report by Rody Tierney
The regular Breffni walkers met at Cappawhite with leader Mike Moroney   and were joined by New York student Tim Antrim Cashin. Along the Multeen way in brilliant sunshine we climbed the Red Hill - avoiding turbine site works and forestry harvesting. We continued to the hill of Barna (380m) where we lunched beneath a huge turbine. We then made our way to the Milestone where we joined the Ormonde way. This comprises mostly farm land and some forest tracks. We trekked on to Upperchurch village where we had a pre arranged meal and minibus return to Cappawhite.
On Sunday morning we met again in Upperchurch and faced for Toomevara. This route brought us through Knockavitoge and onto Knocknamona where we descended and crossed the Clodiagh river. We crossed the bridge to the monument erected in memory of the great hurling team of 1927. Our next climb was to 254 and then along the Rathanure boreen to Templederry where we had a welcome lunch break. We proceeded to Latteragh over farmlands via Cloghinch and Gurteen with the Latteragh river on our right. From Seanin’s pub (alas now closed!) we made our way uphill to the standing stone and onwards to Toomevara where I was welcomed by my sister Esther.
Out thanks to all farmers whose lands we traversed, also a sincere thanks to Mattie Ryan- a renewed acquaintance – who has worked tirelessly for years to develop the Ormonde way. Our great appreciation also to Mike Moroney for all his work - preparing maps and leader skills. Thanks also to Kinnane restaurant in Upperchurch, Tipperary Inn Toomevara and taxi man Johnny O’Sullivan.
David Stapleton's B walk was on the hills above Clonmel town and started from Carey's Castle car park. The route included forest tracks on Cannon Hill and a break at the Holy Year Cross overlooking the town, then down by the ruined farmhouse and a climb to reach the trig point and small cairn on Long Hill. After reaching the most easterly point of the walk overlooking Clonmel golf course the group returned westwards to follow the course of the Glenary River and emerge from the woods at Carey's Castle after negotiating two river crossings on the way.
Thanks also to George Keogh for his C walk from Clydagh Bridge.
There are two club walks on Sunday next, November 8. The ‘B’ walk under the joint leadership of Helen Gleeson and Sadie Ryan will meet at Clydagh Bridge at 10am and cover a circuit on the northern side of Cush Mountain without a climb to the summit and return to the start on forest tracks. Pat Kinane’s ‘C’ walk is on forest paths in the Slievenamuck area, meeting at Rock an Thorabh car park at 11am. The Upperchurch Walking Festival also takes place on Saturday and Sunday next and is deserving of support.

News, November 8th, 2015

There are three club walks scheduled for Sunday next, November 15. Thos O’Neill’s ‘A’ walk will take place in the Knockmealdowns, meeting at Bay Lough Car Park, The Vee, at 10am. Brendan Sheils will be on the southern side of the Galtees, meeting at Galtee Castle Car Park at 10am and taking his ‘B’ group up as far as Carrigeen Mountain at an altitude of 629 metres. Over in Ballyhoura country the ‘C’ walkers will meet with Mary Murphy at Glenbrohane Church at 11am for a climb to the cairn and mast on top of Slievereagh at 465 metres, passing the two wind turbines on the way. Thanks to Helen Gleeson, Sadie Ryan and Pat Kinane for providing the walks in wet and windy conditions on Sunday last.

News, November 15th, 2015

There are two club walks on Sunday next, November 22. At 10am Amelia Ryan’s ‘B’ group meets at Clydagh Bridge in the Glen for a climb to Lake Curra, the second biggest lake in the Galtees and the highest at 574 metres. On the way they will follow the ‘Ice Road’, so named because it was once used to bring ice from the lake to the big houses in the area.
The ‘C’ walk begins in the centre of Galbally Village at 11am when Trish O'Brien and Catherine Sharpe will lead the way around the Darby’s Bed loop on Duntryleague Hill, visiting the well preserved Megalithic Tomb on the summit at a height of 278 metres.
Thanks to Thomas O’Neill, Brendan Sheils and Mary Murphy for providing the walks on Sunday last in less than ideal conditions of mist and wind.
Thos was in the Knockmealdowns for the A walk where the route was determined by the weather. They ascended the sugar loaf to be greeted by gale force winds. It was then decided to shorten the walk and loop back to the car park above Bay Lough.
Brendan's B walk started from Galtee Castle car park and ascended through forest tracks and open ground to Carrigeen Mountain. The return was by the Glounreagh valley with a lunch break at the ruined farmhouse beside the river.
Mary brought her 18 C walkers to the mast and trig point on the top of Slievereagh, following paths not used on a walk before. The gentle pace meant that the walk took three hours to complete. Thanks to Mike and Morgan for their help, including taking the group to the Mass Rock on the route.

News, November 22nd, 2015

There’s a busy weekend of walking ahead with many events taking place. On Saturday and Sunday members of both the Galtee club and Ballyhoura Bears are walking the next two sections of the Beara-Breifne Way. This is the weekend where the landmark Shannon crossing is made as they travel between Toomyvara in North Tipperary and Portumna, just across the river in Co. Galway. Closer to home on Saturday evening there is a fundraising walk for South East Mountain Rescue, starting and finishing at their base in Clonmel. This wonderful voluntary organization deserves the support of all walkers and we hope to see as many members as possible taking part.
The three club walks on Sunday are an ‘A’ walk on the Galtees with Owen Ryan, meeting at Clydagh Bridge at 10am, a ‘B’ walk on the southern side of the mountain with Brendan Sheils from the new Glengarra car park at 10am and a ‘C’ walk on the eastern end of the range starting at the Lady Gregory pub at 11am with Thos O’ Neill.
Thanks to Amelia, Margaret, Catherine and Trish for the club walks on Sunday last.

South Eastern Mountain Rescue Fundraising Walk, November 28th, 2015

"Walk The Long Way Round", a fundraising night walk for South Eastern Mountain Rescue took place on Saturday November 28, 2015. It started and finished at their base in Clonmel and covered a 15km route in the hills above the town. It was an extremely well organised and well run event with a large number of people taking part including a small delegation from the Galtee Walking Club. Anne O'Donnell, club treasurer, made a presentation of a cheque to the value of 250 euro to South Eastern Mountain Rescue team leader, Pat Holland, on behalf of the club.


Anne O'Donnell and Denny O'Dwyer of the Galtee Walking Club presenting a cheque to Pat Holland, team leader of South Eastern Mountain Rescue on the occasion of their fundraising night walk, 'Walk the Long Way Round', which took place in the hills around Clonmel on Saturday November 28th, 2015.   SEMRA photos

News, November 29th, 2015

The schedule of walks for the first three months of 2016 has now been arranged and can be seen on the Schedule page. Apart from the usual Sunday walks we also have the Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival at the end of January and the Slievenamuck Marathon in March. There will also be several trips to continue walking more sections of the Beara-Breifne Way and a visit to the Cliffs of Moher on Easter Sunday.
On Sunday next the three club walks are an ‘A’ walk on the Knockmealdowns with Pat Ryan, meeting at Grubb's Monument at 10am, a ‘B’ walk on Slievenamuck with Pat Donovan from Aherlow House Hotel, also at 10am and a looped ‘C’ walk from Cush car park at 11am with Helen Gleeson.
Some club members took part in the fundraising walk for South Eastern Mountain Rescue on Saturday Night last and before the event a cheque on behalf of the club was presented to Mountain Rescue team leader Pat Holland by treasurer, Anne O’Donnell.
Thanks to Pat Ryan, Brendan Sheils and Thos O'Neill for the three walks on Sunday last. Weather conditions were so bad that walks were cut short and stopping for a lunch break or a photo was not an option.

Beara-Breifne Way, November 28th and 29th, 2015

Report by Rody Tierney
The Met Eireann Yellow gale warning did not deter the Galtee Walking Club Beire Breffni soldiers from travelling to Toomevara. All assembled at Casey’s service station on Saturday 18 November, 2015. We sheltered under the canopy to don our wet gear. Next we were treated to complimentary tea and coffee by Richard Casey and his pleasant deli staff. He also provided us with free car parking.
We marched out from Toom leaving behind the renowned Devil’s Bit mountain. Having passed through the motorway tunnel we saw Knockane Castle on our right.  The recently fitted styles on this section of the Ormonde way made this journey a lot easier. Thank you Matt Ryan!
We continued across Brownstown Bog and on to Cloughjordan. The picnic seats here were very welcome for our lunch break and our visit would not have been complete without a quick pint and local chat across the road in the Railway bar.
In heavy rain we proceed to Ireland’s first and only eco village and then on through Knockanacree wood. After another two hours trek - leaving Knockshegowna hill to our right - we arrived in Ballingarry village where minibus man Ken Daly was waiting to take us back for dinner at the Tipp Inn in Toom.
Next morning the brigade met again in Ballingarry to complete the last leg of the Ormode Way to Portumna. Despite weather conditions and a red gale warning we set off in the direction of Aglish where large trees and branches had been brought down - confirming the severity of the storm. After about three kilometres a deluge of rain lasting over an hour really tested the wet gear but failed to dampen the spirits of the crew. As we approached Aglish we turned right and over farmland until we came to the R 438. Here we stopped for a snack by some old buildings adorned with cut stone arched doorways.
We continued to Gortpheepra deer park and on by Lakeen castle which is a robust structure that has stood the test of time and the elements. Passing by an old church we picked up the track of the dismantled railway on to Clonmacaun and into the village of Lorrha. Here at the school entrance we enjoyed the packed lunch prepared by Patricia Sheerin – owner of B & B Sweet Home Alo Bama in Moneygall. Thanks Patricia!
After Lorrha we went on through Rath Abbeylands where again we used the old railway line that brought us to Portumna via the ferry inn where we crossed the Shannon bridge. We finished today’s trek at the newly erected sign where the Ormonde way meets the Hymany Way.
This was another great weekend with good company that included a lively sixteen year old lad Crevan from Co. Meath who came along with his Mum Deirdre and set a brisk pace for the two days. His new boots are well softened now!
NOTE. This last section of the Ormonde way requires some further development work which is expected to commence in the near future.

News, December 6th, 2015

Next weekend there are two regular Sunday club walks. Goretti Campbell's 'B' walk meets at Clydagh Bridge at 10am and includes a climb of Cush Mountain with a possible visit to one of the Galtee lakes and returning by Boola Glen. David Stapleton's 'C' walk is in the Glenary area above Clonmel. The meeting point is Woodie's car park, Clonmel at 11am.
Thanks to Pat Ryan, Pat Donovan and Helen Gleeson for the three club walks on Sunday 6th in ideal walking conditions.
This is Pat Donovan's report on his B walk.

News, December 13th, 2015

As 2015 draws to a close there are three more opportunities left to get out walking between now and New Year. December 21st is the Winter Solstice and Mary Murphy and Morgan Murphy are running their now traditional night climb of Slievereagh, meeting at Glenbrohane Church at 7:30pm. The Christmas Day walk is now also a tradition and Ray Coleman is meeting at Christ the King statue, Aherlow at 10am on the 25th. Danny Bailey’s post Christmas 4 hour walk is on Sunday, December 27, and meets at Bansha Woods car park at 11am.
We wish all our members and friends a very happy Christmas and hope to see everyone out enjoying the hills in 2016.

Winter Solstice Night Climb of Slievereagh, December 21st, 2015

News, December 25th, 2015