The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
It’s time to head west for Dingle Walking Festival
YOU know a new season is just around the corner when the annual Dingle Walking Festival is here. This year sees the weekend of February 17th, 18th and 19th as one for the diary. Now in its seventh year, the Dingle Walking Festival promises to be another three days of pleasure for outdoor enthusiasts as they enjoy the magical undulations of the Dingle Peninsula. The Dingle Peninsula - or Corca Dhuibhne - is renowned for its ability to captivate with its musical streams and rivers, friendly welcomes and windswept hills - all set against the magnificent backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
“We put in a huge effort to promote it and it’s very popular. It’s also weather dependant, but walkers needn’t worry as we can alter the routes according to the severity of the weather. So walkers will still be able to enjoy it,” said organiser, Colm Bambury.
For example, archaeology and history enthusiasts get to enjoy the region’s rich past; while botany, ecology, geology and photography buffs get the added pleasure of fulfilling their hobbies while getting some exercise. So you see the Dingle Walking Festival is a win-win situation on all levels. It’s also a great way to spend time in Dingle town where you get to enjoy its rich and vibrant reputation for hospitality, fine food and ceol agus craic.
“It’s a great weekend and it’s beneficial to the accommodation providers, pubs and restaurants in Dingle as it kind of kick starts the season. We expect anything from 3 to 4 hundred people over the weekend. But we don’t take any registrations until the day due to changes arising from weather,” added Colm.
The weekend gets underway on Friday 17th when a special ‘walk in the dark’ takes place. This walk will be approximately 40 or 50 minutes, so be sure to wrap up and bring a torch! On the Saturday and Sunday, walkers will be spoilt for choice. And don’t worry if you feel a bit of a novice as the organisers have divided walks into categories ‘Easy, Moderate and Difficult’, allowing for everyone to get involved - regardless of their fitness or experience.
The only requirement is that you wear the correct clothing and a good, sturdy pair of comfortable walking boots. Some of the destinations to look out for this year (weather permitting) include historic Brandon Mountain, Conor Pass, Mount Eagle and the Looped Walk. Registration takes place before each walk and for further information check out dinglewalkingfestival.com or check out their Facebook page.