Noel led a group of seven for a very enjoyable 4hr 45 min
walk, on a lovely sunny day only slightly tainted by a couple of squally
showers. They left Kilclooney Wood and headed for the Lackaduff Commons, taking
a direct route to cross Uisce Solais. Nancy, Rhona, Bridget, Michael, Michael
and Noel were joined by the very welcome Mattias from Switzerland, who was
delighted to be walking on open terrain without way-marked ways.
Noel reminded the group to check for tics afterwards,
especially as they spent some time walking through mature ferns. As they wended
their way towards spot-height 494m, they swopped items of ‘useless information’
on place names and the local landscape, much to visitor Mattias’ amusement –
not least the link between Uisce Solais, Uisce Beatha and the Irish ‘invention’
of whiskey! Following a series of sheep tracks, they reached the foot of
Crotty’s Rock just in time to have the first cold and windy shower of rain. Up
they went and proceeded along the ridge, capturing all the nice views of
Crotty’s lake, before heading for Boola Cairn and on to the track above
Coumsingean to find a sheltered spot for a welcome cup of tea and a chance to
rest some weary legs.
After lunch the group headed back along the top, then some
steep downhill walking to cross Uisce Solais at ‘The Bush’ between the various
falls; they then took a very well defined track back to Coumsingean Lake. After
a short break and more butterscotch sweets (all part of the service!) they went
along the track to Lady’s Rock and then took their time on the final steep
downhill, finishing just after 3 p.m. The consensus was that it was a very
enjoyable B walk, tiring but enjoyable and all went home happy to see the
hurling game on the television.
Picture shows (L to R) Michael, Bridget, Mattias, Nancy,
Noel, Michael and Rhona with backpacks off at lunchtime.
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