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Hillwalkers Club November 2014- February 2015

http://www.hillwalkersclub.com/

C é i l í

M ó r 2 8

Five club membersF summit Kilimanjaro – photo Lola Lara e In this edition HILLWALKER b Hike programme: November 2014 – February 2015 2

The pick-up points r 3 Club news and eventsu 8 Environmental news 12 Kilimanjaro YAAaaaaaya 13 October Bank Holiday Weekendr in Mayo 22 Annual Christmas Festivey Gala Dinner, Party and Weekend 30 2014/15 membership application form 31 THE F u r The Hillwalker ● November 2014t – February 2015 1 h e r

HIKE PROGRAMME November 2014 – February 2015

MEET: Corner of Burgh Quay and Hawkins St DEPART: Sundays at 10.00 am (unless stated otherwise), or earlier if it is full. TRANSPORT: Private bus (unless stated otherwise) COST: €12.00 (unless stated otherwise)

2nd pick-up point: On the outward journey, the bus will stop briefly to collect walkers at the pick-up point. Should the bus be full on departure from Burgh Quay, this facility cannot be offered.

Return drop-off point: On the return journey, where indicated, the bus will stop near the outward pick-up point to drop off any hikers. We regret this is not possible on all hikes.

If you wish to avail of the 2nd pick-up point, it advisable to contact the hike leader or someone else who will definitely be on the hike, to let them know.

GENERAL HIKE NOTES

PARTICIPATION Mountaineering is an activity with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks. People who take part in our club activities do so at their own risk and are responsible for their own actions and involvement.

CO-ORDINATION If necessary, tickets are given out on Sundays to ensure that participants reserve a bus place as they arrive.

LEADER The leader has the right to refuse anyone who is not adequately equipped (e.g., without appropriate boots, rainwear, food, torch, hat, gloves, etc.). The leader may alter the route from that described in the program. The leader sets the pace of the hike and walkers are expected to obey the leader’s instructions at all times.

EQUIPMENT It is essential to bring good rain gear (both jacket and over-trousers) and to leave cotton t-shirts and jeans at home! Boots must be sturdy with proper ankle support and a rigid non-slip sole such as Vibram.

WALKING STICKS AND RUCKSACKS Remember that walking sticks and rucksacks cannot be brought onto the bus and must be stowed away in the boot during the journey.

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 2

The pick-up points

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 3

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 4

 Introductory hard hike 

The Hillwalkers Club offers an Introductory Hike, usually on one Sunday per month. Non-members are welcome to join us on this hike, as long as you provide your name, address and contact details for our records, which will be taken on the day of the hike. There is no need to book a place in advance, just turn up on the relevant Sunday morning. You can come on up to two more hikes without becoming a member of the club, but after that you must join the club.

Even though the name of these hikes is ‘Introductory Hike’, they should not be considered to be an introduction to hiking, but rather as an introduction to the Hillwalkers Club and its hillwalking activities. Therefore, participants need to have a good level of personal fitness and ideally have some prior experience of hillwalking.

All intending participants should be aware that hillwalking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or even death. By walking with the club, they are aware of and shall accept these risks. Moreover, they acknowledge that they wish to participate in club activities in a voluntary capacity and that they shall be responsible for their own actions and involvement. Please note that as non-members of the club, they do not enjoy personal accident insurance, which is otherwise offered to club members through Mountaineering . Further details are available from (www.mountaineering.ie/membersandclubs/Insurance/default.aspx)

For further enquiries contact 086 356 3843

For Sunday hike leaders, the contact people for Mullally’s Coaches are: - Austin O’Hagan, 086 466 4680 - James Mullally, 086 383 7495 - Micheál Martin, 085 102 2204

Sunday 16 November 2014 Sunday 23 November 2014

Leader: Garry Byrne Leader: Jim Barry

2nd pick-up & return drop-off point: Bus stop 2nd pick-up & return drop-off point: Just beyond before roundabout at Loughlinstown the Maldron Hotel on the N81 Tallaght bypass

Route: Ballylug * Clara Vale * Ballydowling * Route: Stone Cross* Slievebawnoge * Kirikee * Shay Elliott * Cullentragh * Derrybawn * Ballymorefinn * Corrig * Seehan * * * Lough Bray * Glencree

Distance: 16 km Ascent: 550 m Distance: 16 km Ascent: 700 m

Map: OS 56 and 62, Harvey, East West Mapping Maps: OS 50 & 56, Harvey, East West Mapping

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 5

Sunday 30 November 2014 Sunday 21 December 2014

Leader: Warren Lawless

2nd pick-up point: Bus stop before the ** Traditional Christmas Holly Hike ** roundabout at Loughlinstown. ** Different return route** This is the Annual Holly(wood) Hike that finishes around Route: Way (south of Knockree Hill at 15.30 at the Hollywood Inn. There will be finger food and O188150 * Glencree River * Crone Wood * Ravens music, with bus leaving Hollywood for Dublin around 18.00 Glen * North & South * * * Glasnamullen * Coilte c/p (O202091) Leader: Don Reilly

Distance: 17 km Ascent: 800 m 2nd pick-up and return drop-off point: Just beyond the Maldron Hotel on the N81 Tallaght Maps: OS 56, Harvey, East West Mapping bypass

Route: Hollywood Glen * * Ballymooney * track via St Kevin’s Way to Hollywood Sunday 07 December 2014 Distance: 14 km Ascent: 350 m ** Introductory Hard Hike ** Maps: OS 56, East West Mapping Leader: Brian Madden

2nd pick-up & return drop-off point: Just beyond the Maldron Hotel on the N81 Tallaght bypass Friday 26th December 2014 – St Stephen’s Day Route: Killakee Car Park * Cruagh * Feather bed road * Castlekelly track * Barnacreel Ridge * Corrig 1. Seasonal hike in the Peninsula * Seahan * Slievenabawnoge * Stone Cross Leader: Frank Rooney (085 174 2119) Distance: 14.5 km Ascent: 800 m Transport: your own or Dublin Bus. Maps: OS 50 & 56, Harvey, East West Mapping No Darts trains. Dublin Bus 31a available from Lr. Abbey Street at 10.00

Starting at Sutton Cross at 11am and finishing in th Sunday 14 December 2014 Howth Harbour at 16hrs approximately. Refreshments in Howth afterwards Hike suitable for Hard and Moderate walkers only

2. Local hike in Kilmacanogue area

Leader: Brendan Dempsey

Transport: Dublin Bus Meeting Point: D’Olier St. (Gas Co. bus stop 145 ) at about 10 am **No Sunday hike** Route: Kilmacanogue * Little * Big Christmas Party weekend trip to Cahir Sugarloaf * Kilmacanogue Book your place ASAP Refreshments in Kilmacanogue afterwards Distance: 11 km Ascent: 600m For further details see page 30 Maps: OS 50 and 56, Harvey, East West Mapping

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 6

New Year’s Day Thursday 01 January 2015 Sunday 18 January 2015

** Traditional hike to ** ** Introductory Hard Hike **

Leader: Jim Barry (087 273 7338) Leader: Simon More

Subject to favourable weather conditions. 2nd pick-up & return drop-off point: Bus stop Check with Jim before travelling. before the roundabout at Loughlinstown.

Transport: Private Cars. Please make arrangements to Route: at Curtlestown Wood * share cars if you can. Raven’s Rock * Glencullen * Cloghnagun * Meet outside Fenton’s Pub in the at Glendoo * Cruagh * Tibradden * Fairy Castle * 10.45am Glencullen (Johnny Fox Pub)

Route: Fenton’s Pub Car park * Camara Hill * Distance: 16.5 km Ascent: 670 m * Ballineddan * Little Slaney * Fenton’s Pub Maps: OS 50 and 56, Harvey, East West Mapping

Distance: 14 km Ascent: 900m Maps: OS 56, Harvey, East West Mapping Sunday 25 January 2015

Leader: Russ Mills

2nd pick-up: Yellow House Rathfarnham Return drop-off point opposite the Maldron Sunday 11 January 2015 Hotel., N81 Tallaght Bypass Route: Bohernabreena car park * Glenasmole Leader: Frank Rooney reservoir * Slievenabawnoge * Seahan * Corrig * Seefingan * Seefin * Athdown forest * Kippure 2nd pick-up point: Yellow House Rathfarnham Bridges Different return Distance: 18 km Ascent: 680 m

Route: Kilakee * Cruagh Mt. * Glendoo Mt.* Maps: OS 50 & 56, Harvey, East West Mapping Bonanaraltry Bridge * Stepaside (Inn)

Distance: 18 km Ascent: 500 m

Map: OS 50 and 56, Harvey, East West Mapping Sunday 01 February 2015

Leader: Peter O’Toole

2nd pick-up point & return drop-off point: : Just beyond the Maldron Hotel on the N81 Tallaght bypass

Route: Lacken GR012-109 * Lugnagun * Sorrel * Ballynultagh GP * Black Hill * * Silsean * Ballyknocken.

Distance: 17 km Ascent: 850 m

Maps: OS 56, Harvey, East and West Mapping

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 7

Club news and events

Annual Christmas Festive Gala Dinner, Party and Weekend 12th – 14th December Details of the Annual Club Christmas dinner, party and weekend away are on page 30. Bookings now being taken and places are filling quickly. Places are not secure until full payment has been made.

Annual Holly Hike The annual Holly Hike will be held on Sunday 21st December 2014.

Trips Away early in 2015 Trips away to Wales, Scotland and Kerry are planned for early 2015. Russell Mills intends bringing a small group to Snowdonia over St Patricks Weekend, March 14th to 17th Please contact Russell at [email protected] or 086 446 6997 & for details see Page 9 Jim Barry intends bringing a large group to Kerry over Easter. Please contact Jim at [email protected] or 087 273 7338 & for details see Page 10 Mel O’Hara intends bringing a small group to Scotland over Easter. Places very limited. Contact Mel for details at [email protected] or 085 198 1248 & for details see Page 11

Club membership Members are reminded that Club membership for 2014/15 is now due. A membership form is included on page 31 of this Newsletter.

New Committee

Following the recent AGM and committee meeting, the new committee is as follows

Committee 2014/15 Chairman Frank Rooney Secretary Liz Carey Administrator Inés Lopez Treasurer Lourdes Hernández Sunday Hikes Coordinator Simon More Newsletter Editor Mel O’Hara Membership Secretary Jim Barry Club Promoter Eugene Dudley Training Officer Ita O’Hanlon Club Social Coordinators Liz Carey / Eugene Dudley Environmental Officer Russell Mills

Special thanks to: Webmaster Matt Geraghty

Payments by members into Club Accounts

It is extremely important that members use their names as the reference when making internet payments into club accounts. It is very difficult to identify and credit your payments otherwise. Please contact Inés or Lourdes for the bank account details to be used when making

payments directly to club accounts either over the internet or at bank counters.

[email protected] [email protected] If paying at bank counter, please note number of lodgement docket and text or e-mail this number to Inés or Lourdes to ensure your transfer is correctly identified

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 8

St. Patricks Weekend 13th-17th March 2015

SNOWDONIA, N. WALES

Four days of hikes in the wonderful and rugged mountains of Snowdonia, (or chill out at the house or in the local villages). Hikes will be fairly tough and suitable for fit members of Hillwalkers only.

Leader: Russ Mills [email protected] or 086 4466997

Accommodation: Self-catering guesthouse in Llanberis village, staying in twin or triple rooms in house with large kitchen, lounge, drying room and free Wi-Fi. Close to village centre, pubs and shops. (www.dolperis.co.uk)

Cost: €260, a €100 deposit is required to secure place. The €260 includes the accommodation, ferry and transport costs for the 4 days. You will need to supply your own food.

Kit: Bring the gear you would need for a winters day in the , plus spares.

Meet: Luke St. (off Georges Quay) at 14.00 on Friday 13th to catch the 15.10 ferry from Dublin. We will return to Dublin around 23.45 on the 17th.

Payment Methods : Please send €100 deposit either by cheque or Postal Order made out to ‘ The Hillwalkers Club’ (NO CASH PLEASE), to Inés Lopez, c/o Algar, The Slopes, Knapton Road, Dun Laoghaire Co Dublin. If paying by bank transfer or by Internet electronic transfer please contact Inés, [email protected] for details of the Hillwalkers bank account to be used. Please ensure you use your name as the reference if making an internet payment. If paying at bank counter, please note number of lodgement docket and text or e-mail this number to Inés to ensure your transfer is correctly identified. Please advise Inés when you have made the payment.

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 9

Staying at An Óige Aghadoe House Youth Hostel,

PLEASE NOTE BUS ONLY TRIP Proposed Weekend Itinerary Mtn: from Breanlee (Hard Hike) Car park (G.R.772 872) & Leisleibane (Mod Hike) Path (G.R.830 892) Start points. Both Hikes to finish at Leisleibane

Mangerton Mtn: from Gortacullane (G.R. 988 866) start/finish point for both Hard/Moderate Hikes

Purple/Toomeys Mtns: From Kate Kearney’s Cottage Car park, .(G.R. 881 888) Start/Finish point both hikes

Kerry Way Walk: From Galway’s Bridge (G.R.915 802) towards Killarney Town

Recommended Map(s): OS Discovery Series 78 (1:50,000) , Killarney (1:25,000) or Harvey’s (1:30,000)

Cost: €255 ( Includes Bednights, Meals, and Bus Transport)

Booking & Payment : Please post CHEQUE OR POSTAL ORDER ONLY (NO CASH) made out to the ‘Hillwalkers Club’ for €255 to Inés Lopez, c/o Algar, The Slopes, Knapton Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, including your full contact details OR pay €255 by internet or bank transfer into club account after contacting Inés, [email protected] for details of Hillwalkers bank account to be used. Please ensure you use your name as the reference if making an internet payment. If paying at bank counter, please note number of lodgement docket and text or e-mail this number to Inés to ensure your transfer is correctly identified. Please advise Inés when you have made the payment. Participants must be members of An Óige or the Hillwalkers Club

Bookings open from Monday 05 January 2015

Meals: Hostel Continental Breakfast, Dinner and Packed Lunch included Bring: Suitable Walking Boots, Rain Wear/Change of Warm Clothing/Towels/Toilet Gear/ Flask/Torch/ First Aid Kit/Camera/, Mobile Phone etc. Be prepared for winter conditions in the mountains

Meeting Time & Place – 1200hrs on THURSDAY 2nd at Luke Street (Side street off Georges Quay between Bank Bus Stops and Tara St. Dart Station) Return: Monday evening to arrive back in Dublin at 2000hrs.

Welcome Aboard The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 10

Alba gu bráth

Easter 2015 in Scotland

Thursday April 2nd - Monday April 6th

Based in Callander, Perthshire, Gateway to the Highlands

As announced at the AGM, a small group of Hillwalkers will be making a trip to Scotland over Easter 2015.

This trip may encounter difficult winter hillwalking conditions and is only suitable for fit members of the Hillwalkers Club.

Places are limited

Please contact Mel O’Hara, 085 198 1248 or [email protected] for details.

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 11

Environmental notes

Hello Hillwalkers,

You may well have noticed, and those attending the October Bank Holiday weekend in Mayo would certainly agree, that it has become a lot wetter in the hills in recent weeks. The ground is now saturated and there are pools of water appearing on the hill tops and on the paths that cross them.

As well as making hiking more arduous, travelling across saturated ground has an adverse environmental impact, especially when we travel in larger groups.

The softer ground means our feet do more damage to the paths and the plants than they would in dry weather. In addition we tend to avoid the wet and boggy sections of paths, walking parallel to the existing route. This exacerbates the problem, widening the path and increasing erosion.

There are, however, measures we can take as responsible hikers to minimise the damage caused by our activities.

At this time of year it is sensible to treat our footwear with waterproofing wax, to ensure they keep out the water, and to wear gaiters that cover the boot uppers, laces and ankle cuff. This will keep the mud and water out of our boots and allow us to walk safely in the centre of the path, instead of bypassing the wetter parts, widening the path and causing more erosive damage.

Where paths exist we should certainly use them, but where they do not we can avoid excessive wear and harm to the existing flora by spreading our group out a little, walking a slightly different route to our neighbour, and not following in single file.

On a blustery, cold and wet day these are not things that become a priority in our minds, but if we can try to put these measures into practice then our environmental impact will be much reduced.

By being properly prepared for the day, with effective waterproof clothing and footwear, and carrying hats, gloves and extra warm layers, we will be more comfortable on the hike, and perhaps have more time to think about the effects of our feet on the hill environment at this critical time of year.

Mountaineering Ireland still have a small number of copies of their recently produced guide to the commonly seen flora and fauna of the uplands. It has been well received and you can get a free copy by contacting Helen Lawless at MI, [email protected].

I also have a few copies myself, so if you would like one please let me know, [email protected]. See you out on the hills.

Russ Mills, Club environmental officer

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 12

Kilimanjaro - YAAAaaaaaay

Africa! We couldn’t believe that after months of preparations we had just arrived at Kilimanjaro airport in Tanzania. We speed through the passport controls thanks to our guide from the agency and we headed to our base hotel in Moshi. Even in the darkness of the night you could feel the different smell in the air. The following morning at breakfast time we sat beside a couple on their honeymoon that were too climbing Kilimanjaro. The bus waiting outside the hotel was packed to the tops with people and supplies. On the way to Kilimanjaro National Park we saw beer making by the locals, coffee plantations, and small villages full of banana trees with children waving as we passed by. At Machame Gate,1490m, we signed the registration book and we started our climb. We had a pleasant surprise when the couple on honeymoon, Amelie and Tomek, also joined our group, so the five were seven now. The main guide, Godlisten, explained that the key to reach the summit was to be hydrated and to walk “pole pole” (slowly) and we found out along our trip that pole pole is, as well, a way of life in Tanzania. The first day we walked through the forest. The path was surrounding by thick evergreen vegetation. We had very light rain making it humid as and the temperature was in the 20’s. We waved at other groups doing the same route and we learnt our second word in Swahili, “jambo”, that the porters carrying the luggage and supplies said with a huge smile. Their load made us feel a little guilty as we only had the day backpack. When we arrived at Machame Camp (2,980m) our tents were already up and a warm drink was waiting for us. We checked in to our accommodation for the week, a lovely green tent, and we checked the site layout just in case we lost our bearings once the light was gone. After a lively dinner the guides, Godlisten, Jesse and Rogatti gave us a summary of the day ahead - breakfast would be at 6.30 am !! They soon learned that we took their advice, “pole pole” , very seriously.

Tomek, Amelia, Inés, Lola, Shauna, Lourdes & Celia – Photo – Lourdes Hernandez Martín

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On the second day, we started coming out of the forest and entering the moorland. The scenery was like being inside a magical children story with many peculiar palm trees called senecios. The rain soft and continuously and by the time we arrived to Shira Hut (3800m) we were totally soaked. Our spirits were starting to go down. Once in our tents we noticed that our sleeping bags were damp. We tried to dry them as much as we could. Then we started to panic. We realised that if our clothes didn’t dry we wouldn’t be able to make it to the summit. Lola spoke to Godlisten about it and he took our concerns very seriously. Still raining and feeling miserable, we were in our tents when the cooks to our surprise brought us a hot drink, peanuts and freshly made popcorn. Just what we needed! By dinner time we were again in high spirits. The views from Shira Hut were amazing, in front of us was Mount Meru (4565 m) peeking through the clouds and behind us Kibo Peak. The following day, with the morning sunshine, we dried the sleeping bags and clothes spreading them on the tents, and we hung the remainder from our backpacks. The third day of our hike, we were going to Barranco Hut, passing through Lava Tower (4642m) as part of the acclimatisation and then descending to Barranco Hut (3800m). The guides, Godlisten and Rogatti said that it was a crucial day of the climb. If we had no problems we had a very good chance of making it to the top. It was sunny and we started feeling the effect of the altitude. The path was steep and our breathing was becoming more difficult. The scenery around us changed to volcanic with practically no vegetation. We reached Shira plateau and walked through the snow as the temperature was plummeting. To cheer ourselves up we had a snow ball fight and a sing along.

Celia in the Senecios – Photo - Lourdes

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 14

At Lava Tower we stopped for lunch. The only sign of life was the crows and mice waiting for us to drop some food. Everyone seemed to be relatively fine. And we started our descent to Barranco Hut. The group separated in two. Godlisten, Shauna, Celia and I found the chance to speed up downhill while the rest made their way slightly slower. The scenery changed again to moorland, with lobelias and senecios along the way.

Shauna on Shira Plateau – Photo - Lourdes

When everybody arrived at the hut we realised the Tomek wasn’t feeling that well. He was pale and very quiet. He had a headache and his stomach was spinning like a washing machine (his own words). The camp seemed very lively. Celia went to investigate and she found a team of porters dancing and singing a traditional song to the delight of the hikers. The sunset against the Barranco Wall was spectacular. We took several photographs and we were called for dinner. Dinner as always was superb. Tomek was still feeling poorly. We hoped that in the morning he would feel better. We had one night left before climbing to the top.

Sunset at Barranco Wall – Photo - Lourdes

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 15

The next morning at breakfast we were glad to see Tomek joking again. The hike that day was short but we had to conquer first the infamous Barranco Wall. Nothing that hillwalkers like us couldn’t do but scrambling at nearly 4000m is a different story. We stopped several times before getting to the top where the views were mouth opening and we had a photo shoot jumping above the clouds. The distance to cover was short as it was an extra day for acclimatisation. On the way, the guides, as they got to know us, changed our names so we became Simba, The Joker, American Dada, Shaunny Dada, and the Thinker! When we arrived at Karanga Valley, 4000m, we could see the immensity of Mount Kilimanjaro in front of us.

Destination in sight – Photo Lola Lara In the morning before setting up for our last camp before the summit, we enjoyed the view with a cup of tea in hand. It took us around 3 hours to get to Barafu Hut (4600m). We arrived around 12.30 pm. We met a few people coming down from the summit. We had to give way to some guides who were quickly carrying several people down the mountain. Their faces were grey. We looked at each other with concern. The guides explained the plan for that day. Lunch will be at 1 pm then a rest of four hours, dinner at 6 pm with another rest until 11.30 pm to start climbing at midnight. The cooks came to the restaurant tent to make sure we had enough food for the battle ahead. 12.00 am !!! We were nearly ready to start. Other groups were heading up. At 12.15 am, we started the climb. The temperature was minus 12 Celsius. We could already see the serpent like lights quite high up in the mountain. The climb was extremely slow and we had great difficulty in breathing. We had this constant pressure in the forehead, the dreaded effects of the altitude. We could see other hikers having problems, losing their balance, zig zagging. Everybody seemed to have great determination, all pole pole, step by step.

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 16

We had numerous breaks to recover our strengths. Every step took a great effort. We had five guides climbing with us. To help us, they took some of our backpacks and, at one point, when we were feeling really low and miserable, they cheered us up by singing and dancing.

Our guides - Godlisten, Jesse and Rogatti. Photo - Lourdes

It was 5.30 am, the sunrise!!! We stopped to admire it. The light, the change in colours were magnificent. But still, we were no near Stella Point. The path in front of us was never ending .The first of the hikers were heading down Barafu Camp.

Kilimanjaro Glacier – photo - Shauna

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At 7.15 am we arrived to Stella Point (5686m). After a well-deserved rest, we left our backpacks with one of the guides and bottle of water in hand we continued walking towards the summit. Only over 200m ascent ahead of us. This time, the path was not as steep as the climb to Stella Point, however, our steps were getting slower and slower. We were deflated. Our eyes were set on the horizon. We became walking robots. The grandiosity of the glacier gave us a distraction to keep going. The guides were constantly cheering us up.

Seven at the Summit – Photo - Shauna

Then….Rogatti said “ this is the last slope, I promise” and like so, we saw the summit. As per a miracle our strength returned and … finally ….we made it!!!!

Text by Lourdes Hernández

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 18

Mt. Meru from Karanga camp – Photo - Shauna

Inés meets a snowman – Photo - Shauna

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 19

Sunrise behind Mawenzi - Photo – Shauna

It was even colder than it looks ! Photo – Shauna

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 20

Lola, Lourdes and Celia - High spirits – Photo - Shauna

After all the hardship - taking a well-deserved break in Zanzibar – Photo – Celia Estan

The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 21

October Bank Holiday Weekend in Mayo 24th – 27th October 2014

Mweelrea Mountains from – Photo Udo Sap

THE WEST’S AWAKE Gale force winds in beautiful Mayo literally took ‘the breath away’ of one hillwalker on our recent October bank holiday weekend getaway.

There was a fantastic sense of both relief and anticipation in the air, as we headed away from Dublin city on Friday 24 October 2014 for the bank holiday Hillwalkers’ weekend in Mayo. Noel Moore, our capable driver got us up the quays and away and out on the M4 and in to the west in jig time. Hungry from an early lunch (or no lunch at all for some of us rushing for the 4pm bus), we stopped off in Ballinalack, outside Mullingar for some healthy fare – with ‘Supermacs’ and chocolate muffins a-go-go. We were confident perhaps that our Friday night carb consumption would be easily walked off us in the coming days. Little did we know … As our competent leader and getaway organiser Mel O’Hara said, this was a weekend for walking and making connections with old and some new friends. I think it is true to say we were all delighted to be on the bus. We arrived in Castlebar after dark to the plush surrounds of the Harlequin Hotel. Weary by now, we were bedazzled by an array of glitzy pink and purple lights in reception and shiny ensuites in our bedrooms. They had a warm welcome for us, with one hillwalker commenting, “Err … when they see us tomorrow arriving back in with gaiters, boots and the like, what will the welcome be like then.” Stoic leaders who had organised previous weekends away stood agog! Mel had really ‘upped the ante’ in terms of the accommodation. “Crikey this puts the B & B’s and the hostels of the past in the ha’penny place,” said another. The hardiest amongst us quickly checked in and headed down the town to Byrnes’ pub. Sensible Mel headed upstairs to check out the BBC weather forecast!

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Fiona all set to bring us to the mountains – Photo M O’Hara

The next morning, Saturday, we enjoyed a terrific Irish breakfast and headed off at 9.30am for our first hike up Ben Gorm (meaning ‘Blue Peak’). Even from the bus, the countryside looked beautiful in all its autumn glory. Ben Gorm is the most southerly peak in the compact range of hills that form the Ben Gorm Mountains. We all approached the mountain from Aasleagh Falls via Letterass. Mel led the ‘hard hike’ and Russell Mills the ‘hard moderate.’ Bad winds were forecast so Mel gave us good warning about getting down low if there was a sudden gale gust. At a good steady pace, the hard walkers moved up the side of the mountain, losing a few people back to the moderate group. There was a bit of a delay when one hard walker left the group and headed down to the bus, waving to, but then missing, Russell and his crew. Simon More, Mel’s backmarker, ran down the mountain and up again (to a round of applause) in his quest to locate the missing man! (The grand old Duke of York wasn’t in it!). As we moved, the wind level increased. The gusts came with rapid force at times and we had to pin ourselves down with our sticks – if you were lucky to have sticks. Brief respites here and there allowed us to catch our breaths, eat our lunch, and quickly move to the top (700m) and ahead, to see beautiful views of , (Ireland’s only fjord) and , the highest mountain in Connaught. Mel then led us nimbly down quite a beautiful ridge between Glendavock and Lugayeran rivers. It was stony, but if you took it steady you were fine. Mayo has to be one of the most beautiful counties in Ireland. The views were simply stunning in all directions. Although cloudy sometimes, you could still see the landscape. We also had a short river crossing ably handled by Mel and Tom Hennessy. I seem to recall seeing Liz Carey independently operating another crossing up stream - but I could be wrong!

The moderates did a similar walk but exited off Ben Gorm via Skirragohiffern. We all hungry when we arrived back to the hotel where we enjoyed an excellent three course meal. (I had my first turkey and ham dinner of the season!). With a day’s walking done, many headed eagerly down the town and the owner of Byrnes’ pub welcomed us with vigorous enthusiasm as he recognised faces from the night before.

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Ben Gorm Ridge Descent – Photo Don Reilly On a very blustery Sunday morning the moderate walkers headed off with Mel in the direction of , anticipating walking on the lower reaches only and the hard walkers headed with Russell to the . (Fiona Byrne was extremely pleased with her idea on the bus of an early nuptial ceremony for newly-engaged Don Reilly and Liz on the top of the sacred mountain, but they were having none of it). As Russell had promised, the hards were sheltered for a good bit as we hiked up the lane from the church at Owenmore Bridge and walked up a valley along the and in to a col, (between Tievnabinnian and Tawney Rower). We then decided after our beautiful lunch spot – (looking over at Croagh Patrick) - where to go next. As we sheltered and ate our sandwiches, (510m) the prevailing winds were incredibly strong behind and above us. We opted for safety reasons to go down early, hiking with the wind to Tawney Rower, with Russell giving us all advice about coping with the conditions. “Get down on the ground,” he said, “Or grab on to someone big!” While some of us smaller folk got tossed around like pins, we braved it out and linked arms and got down. I have to say it was quite exhilarating – probably mad, but exhilarating! The walk down the ridge of Cuilmore was also grassy which meant a soft landing for anyone who took a wind-related tumble. Our walk was circa 11km as our options were extremely limited by the gale force winds.

Breezy on the Sheefreys – Photo Don Reilly

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The moderate walkers had a longer hike – 16km to 18km depending on who you spoke to and they also experienced lots of gusts. They seemed to enjoy it - and all the wonderful views - despite the inclement weather. They got as far as spot height 456m on Croagh Patrick before very strong winds persuaded them to leave the mountain for another day. They dropped down south and did a circuit of Owenree Bog before returning to the starting point via Brackloon Woods and Cloonagh.

Descent to Killary from Devilsmother – Photo Don Reilly

Bank holiday Monday, the “easy day”, Russell told us, proved to be the walk of all walks. The weather was meant to improve (in fairness), but it didn’t and if anything it got steadily worse. Dropping a few plain clothes walkers to Westport for some shopping, the moderates and hards headed up the Devil’s Mother, (meaning ‘Magairlí an Deamhain’) a steep mountain, which required a determined climb to a hard-won summit. The hard walkers started from Glennacally Bridge tackling the mountain (645m) from the north. The moderates also climbed it but from the other side (via Glennagevlagh valley). It was a challenge along the tops as we moved along the ridge, in what was a terrific walk of over 11 km but in challenging windswept and wild conditions. (I recall looking in awe at some strong types like Søren and Simon jump with ease like gazelles from small peat hag to peat hag). Magairlí an Deamhain by the way, translates from the Irish as the ‘devil’s testicles’ as explained by Mel on the bus (and also confirmed by this author in her research for this article). However, given the number of false tops, add-ons and appendages, I have concluded this poor devil did have some serious issues. We reached and headed back to the bus and into the dark night feeling weary but thrilled with our endeavours. Sincere thanks to Mel and to Russell for all their hard work and preparation in planning this fantastic weekend. Thanks for their guidance, patience and good humour over the three days. Text by Michelle H.

Don ag ligint a scíth Griangraf – M. Ó h-Eaghra

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Tess and Caitriona enjoy their day off in Westport

Photo – Sarah Dooley

While the Hards got a little wet on Devilsmother Photo - Frank Keoghan

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Russell leads the way on Devils Mother – Photo Frank Keoghan

The Erriff Valley from Ben Gorm – Photo Tess Buckley The Hillwalker ● November 2014 – February 2015 27

Ben Gorm Ascent – Photo Tess Buckley

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Book Review

Irish writer and fellow-hillwalker, Pat Upton, has just released a new book called ‘MAYOINGS: Hillwalking, the Landscape Poetry of Ancient China, and Mayo.’

‘Mayoings’ is a celebration of the natural beauty of Mayo and an exploration of how walking can give us a different perspective, both on ourselves and on the world.

It is divided into four sections and covers many of the most famous walks/mountains in the county.

The originality of the book lies in the fact that it is an exploration of the philosophy and poetry of walking, two aspects of this increasingly popular activity that have been largely ignored by walkers.

‘Mayoings’ is now available in Books Upstairs, opposite Trinity College, Kindle and via www.mayobooks.ie

It retails at €9.99.

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HILLWALKERS CLUB Annual Christmas Festive Gala Dinner, Party & Weekend Walking in the Galtee and Knockmealdowns Mtns. Gala Dinner in the Cahir House Hotel, Cahir

Fri-Sat-Sun, Dec 12-14, 2014

Overview For Christmas 2014, please join us to celebrate the festive season in historic Cahir, Co. Tipperary. We will travel to Cahir on the Friday night, allowing for two relaxed days of walking in the Galtee and mountains, plus a convivial Saturday evening in the well- known Cahir House Hotel, where you will be treated to a festive gala dinner followed by a disco.

Organisers Hillwalkers Committee Booking Enquiries: Mel O’Hara, [email protected] 085 198 1248

Transport Bus from Dublin to Cahir on Friday, Dec 12th at 7.30 pm. Local bus on Saturday/Sunday to/from the Galtees & Knockmealdowns. Return bus to Dublin via Cahir on Sunday.

Departure Details Friday, Dec 12th, 7.30 pm, Luke Street, off George’s Quay, Dublin 2. Second pick up: 7.50 pm., Red Cow Luas Stop (Luas Red Line), Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

Return Sunday, Dec 14th, arrive back in Dublin at 7.30 pm approx.

Hiking Saturday, Galtees, depart Cahir House Hotel at 9.30 am. Two hikes to finish at 4.00 pm approx.

Sunday, Knockmealdowns. Depart Cahir House Hotel at 10.30 am. Two hikes to finish approx. 4.00 pm.

Friday Evening Arrive in Cahir at approx. 10.00 pm. Overnight B&B in Cahir House hotel.

Saturday Evening Complimentary drinks in hotel from 8.00 pm. Christmas gala dinner at 8.30 pm. Late bar to 1:00 am. Disco until late.

Accommodation Hotel accommodation in Cahir House hotel to include full breakfast on Sat & Sun.

Packed Lunches Included in cost on both days (All inclusive price)

Price €145 (Bus departure Fri, return on Sunday) (All inclusive price – Bus to/from Dublin, Local bus, Dinner, 2xB&B, 2xP.Lunch, DJ) €90 (make your own way on Saturday) (Without bus to/from Dublin, Local Bus, Dinner, 1xB&B, 1xP.Lunch, DJ)

Booking & Payment Please inform us of your intention to book by email to: [email protected]

Please post cheque, payable to the “Hillwalkers Club”, stating your preference, to: Mel O’Hara, Ardmore Road, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath If paying by bank transfer or by Internet electronic transfer please contact Mel for details of the Hillwalkers bank account to be used. Please ensure you use your name as the reference if making an Internet payment. If paying at bank counter, please note number of lodgement docket and text or e-mail this number to Mel to ensure your transfer is correctly identified.

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Membership Application Form The Hillwalkers Club 2014-2015 The 2014-2015 membership year runs from 01 October 2014 to 30 September 2015.

Name (Applicants must be over 18)

Address

Were you a member before?  Yes, last year  Yes, some time ago  No New members: How did you hear about the club? …………………………………………..……………………

An Óige Membership Number (Applicants must be a member of An Óige) [Further information at http://www.anoige.ie/membership]

Contact Telephone Numbers (If possible, please give a mobile number, which may be used for notification of programme changes) Mobile ...... Evening ...... Daytime ......

Email Address (required) ……………………………………………………………………....………………….…. The club issues a regular newsletter by email. The newsletter is also available through the Club webpage [www.hillwalkersclub.com].

Please read and sign the following PERSONAL DECLARATION

PERSONAL DECLARATION I am over 18 years of age and wish to apply for membership of the Hillwalkers Club. (*) (*) Please note that personal accident insurance is only available to members between 18 and 75 years of age. I accept that mountaineering is an activity with a danger of personal injury or even death. I am aware of and shall accept these risks and wish to participate in these activities voluntarily and shall be responsible for my own actions and involvement. I accept that the Hillwalkers Club establishes the bounds on its activities through the constitution and rules of the club [available at www.hillwalkersclub.com/constitution.htm] and I agree to abide by these. Members should not undertake any club hiking activities if: (i) they have any known medical ailment which may impair their ability to participate in club activities, or, (ii) they are taking any form of medication that will put their health or safety of others at risk. If a member is in any doubt on these matters, a doctor should be consulted prior to undertaking any club hiking activity. If you agree and accept the terms of the PERSONAL DECLARATION, please sign and date here.

Signature ...... ……………………...... Date ...... ………...... The 2014/15 Membership Fee is €35.00 Please use ordinary post to send completed form to Jim Barry, 156 Comeragh Road, Drimnagh, Dublin 12. Cheques or postal orders, payable to the Hillwalkers Club, but NO CASH, can be included with the application form. Please allow 2 weeks for your application to be processed. Please contact Inés or Lourdes for details of the bank account to be used when making membership payments directly into the club account either over the internet or at bank counter. [email protected] or [email protected]

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