Tralee-Blennerville Walkway: Gateway to Kerry’s history…

KNOWN locally as the ‘canal walk’, a stroll from Tralee to Blennerville and the Lock Gates is one of the best kept secrets when visiting Tralee.

Whether you are staying in Tralee or just passing through, the canal walk is an ideal way to enjoy one of the most historic places in Kerry. The walk has some of the best scenery imaginable, including nature and natural beauty set in a fantastic nature reserve.

It is widely used by locals but visitors should consider making the most if it when visiting the county capital. Not every urban space can boast of such a scenic retreat just a few minutes from a bustling town centre.

Walking from Tralee, the first thing that greets you is the sloping Slieve Mish Mountains and the historic Blennerville Bridge and windmill, built in the 19th Century. In behind the windmill is the original 17thcentury pier where emigrants from all over Kerry left for America, Australia, and the UK in the 1800s.

The fact the pier, with its beautifully cut limestone, is partially hidden is astounding given the history it represents. A picture standing on this pier is to stand where thousands of emigrants left Ireland for the last time. The pier is also where food was shipped from Kerry during the Industrial Revolution in England to help feed thousands of factory and mill workers.

For nature buffs, there’s a vast array of birdlife to savour. People can walk as far as the Lock Gates and along Cockleshell Strand. This brings in beautiful views of Tralee Bay and Fenit Pier on the horizon. The swan pond is another tranquil addition and at this time of year the cygnets will be arriving soon.

The pathways are clean and very accessible making them ideal for cyclists or pushing baby buggies. There is ample opportunity for stops along the way with benches and picnic tables. This is a wonderful amenity for visitors inTralee and a great way of meeting with locals who will be happy to stop and offer advice and directions.

An amenity like this is free and requires nothing but a good pair of walking shoes and some ambition. There’s much to see in Tralee town, but don’t forget to explore what was once the gateway to Tralee.