Footwear and Clothing

Whilst it is not a requisite to have full walker’s kit, however, for those people who are interested and wish to walk the mountains, they are advised to purchase good walking boots, a knapsack and all-weather gear. In planning your walk it is very important to note the weather conditions. Walking in mountains is not advisable under poor weather and foggy conditions. A walking stick (staff), a compass and a whistle are essential for mountain walks.

Walk Planning

See Country Walking/Walking Rules. Select a route beforehand and notify people of this route and expected return time. This is absolutely essential, especially when mountain walking.

Maps and Publications

If further details than available in this book are required, the Ordnance Survey Discovery Series, new maps - 73, 74, 80 and 81 - should be used as additional guides.

Distances and Times

• Distances, climbs and times are approximate and depend on people’s walking abilities.
• The time it takes to cover a particular route can depend on many factors other than the distance.
• Wet, boggy terrain, slow ascents and descents, frequent stops for food or even to enjoy the view, can have a significant bearing on the time taken to cover a loop.
• We have taken 4km per hour (that is 2fi miles per hour) as a base, and where climbs are involved, we have allowed for adjustments as well as for difficult terrain. These should be used as a rough guide.
• Walking is one of the few activities that can be enjoyed in Ireland all the year round.
• Springtime, that is March, April and May, is considered the most comfortable time for walking.
• However, in our view, Winter walking often has the advantage of clear, frosty, refreshing air. Most landscapes take on a special beauty at this time of year particularly after a light fall of snow.
• Remember that Ireland’s weather is sometimes subject to rather frequent change but by wearing suitable gear, it is still possible to enjoy walks in the countryside.

The Country Code

• Do not cause fire - carelessness can cost thousands of pounds and destroy our woods.
• Close all gates - this is a normal courtesy of the countryside.
• Keep dogs under control particularly when livestock are about.
• Stay on paths when crossing farmland. This is a common courtesy.
• Do not damage fences, hedges or walls.
• Do not litter the environment.
• Bring your own bottles, wrappers and other containers back for deposit in appropriate refuse collection systems.
• Do not pollute our water supplies.
• Protect any wildlife, plants and trees and where relevant, report to the proper authorities when damage has been done.
• Go very carefully on the country roads, obviously maintaining the rule that one walks in single file, facing the oncoming traffic.
• The countryside is yours - treasure it!

Country Walking/Walking Rules

• Wear sturdy walking boots or comfortable shoes to keep your feet dry, and in hill walking to protect your ankles.
• Let people know where you are going and the expected time of return and do not walk alone in isolated areas.
• A light rucksack should be carried to hold maps and clothing which one may require under poor weather conditions.
• This also applies when one is beginning to warm up after a short period walking, to carry discarded clothing as well as food and drink.
• It is very important that one should learn to read maps and use a compass. Obviously hill walking requires this - remember our weather can be dangerously volatile and unpredictable.