TWO OF Ireland’s most acclaimed walking routes have been connected to create over 500km of continuous paths in west Cork.
The opening of the new 20km Mealagh Valley Walk outside Bantry yesterday means the Sheep’s Head Way, which won a European Destination of Excellence Award in 2009, is now connected to the Beara Way to create one of the longest walking routes in Ireland.
According to Quentin Gargan, who is secretary of Mealagh Valley Walking Route, 24 landowners have given permission for the route to cross their properties.
The new route across mountain and valley terrain means that walkers can now make their way from the town of Allihies at the tip of the Beara Peninsula to Kilcrohane on Sheep’s Head.
“The Mealagh Valley has many ancient settlements, and the new route passes by the Knockenalora wedge tomb, as well as standing stones, stone circles and other ancient sites in the area.
“The mountain walk over Mullaghmesha takes in some breathtaking views of Cork and Kerry.
“At this time of the year, some of the deciduous woods are carpeted with bluebells – a sure sign that while this is new-growth forestry, the area has been afforested in the past.”
The walk was officially declared open at 3pm yesterday when local historian Seán O’Brien, who has researched and written about standing stones and other archaeological features in the Mealagh Valley, unveiled a map board of the various routes through the valley.
The opening also included a number of guided walks, including a 4½-hour hike over Mullaghmore with a bus bringing those who participated back to Mealagh Valley community hall and the start of the route in time for the official opening.
Full directions and information on the new walk can be obtained by visiting ardnashee.com/walks.
