THE next Mourne International Walking Festival takes place from Friday to Sunday June 23 to 25. Taking in the Mourne Mountains, Warrenpoint and Ring of Gullion, the festival offers some of the best walking in Ireland, amid stunning scenery.
Located in designated areas of outstanding natural beauty, the event showcases a huge diversity of flora and faunam heritage, myth and legend. The festival brings together an excellent range of walks to suit all levels of fitness and ability, with routes to choose from between 10km to 40km at both high and low levels.
Now is a good time to look into taking part – pre-booking is about a third of the price cheaper – and if needed, accommodation can be arranged. Go to www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/Mourne-International-Walking-Festival.
Donegal walking break
ARDARA-based archaeologist Paula Harvey, pictured, will be leading a walking trip with your columnist's Belfast Walking Dynamos group in July. The Co Donegal break is happening from July 11 to 14 and promises moderate walking, eating and music.
Staying in Nesbitt Arms hotel, Ardara, we'll be exploring this ancient and beautiful area along the Wild Atlantic Way and of course having lots of craic agus ceol. We'll be enjoying great local hospitality including traditional session music nights, buffet in an old Donegal farmhouse, feasting on lots of great food and wine/drinks and imbibing at the famous Corner House and Nancy's bars.
The walks are leisurely to moderate that will suit anyone with moderate fitness. Lifts are available for car sharing. Bring sturdy walking boots and outdoor walking gear.
Ms Harvey is an expert on the area's section of the Wild Atlantic Way, with tales told at locations linked to the Spanish Armada disaster of 1588. She will be taking the Dynamos walkers along with members of the local community and explaining the history of the area including St Conal's bell and shrine, on display in the British museum.
:: Contact andrea.mckernon@gmail.com or go to www.meetup.com/belfasthillstours-com/events/237688769/ for more details.
