A Shortcut

Highwood area to Ballinafad 

A very wet night, misty and still light rain falling as we head down to breakfast and some directions to the next bed near Ballinafad. Our map tells us to take the walk down the western side of Lough Arrow but the owner has spoken to the owner of Amber B & B and both say we are walking out of our way; instead we walk down the eastern side of the lake, walking 12klms instead of 20klms.  A much better decision we decide. We leave about 8am, decked out in water resistant pants and gaiters tied under the knees – looking good. We both look such a sight. Sue’s balloon above her ankles giving her the impression of a Michelin Man. Fashion is not on today’s agenda. We are not travelling to look cool; no one cares and no one knows us not even the sheep and cows.

Back down the hill we trudged up yesterday and follow some signs and a rough map we have been given. Suddenly a signpost to the B & B appears, we stand there trying to decide if we go in as we are VERY early or do we walk a further 5 klms to Ballinafad and get a coffee. It is a bit embarrassing to arrive so early. The sudden burst of rain makes us decide and we head to the front door. Trish is still serving breakfast to her guests from the previous night but she still finds time to organise tea and scones. This becomes the welcome meal most days. We now have a full day to fill in.

An offer to drive us to Lough Key Forest Park so we can spend the afternoon browsing the estate and walks is easily accepted. The startling blue waters of the circular lake, bounded boldly by mountains and a green wooded estate is located in an area of great historical interest. The rain has gone and the light sun rays have appeared. There is so much history in this park with the brick 1845 Store House at the front gates, the remains of the old stone church, a Fairy bridge built before the Famine era and still standing. There is also the Bog Garden and if you do not detour from the wooden plank path, it is an interesting walk.  There is a tree top walk but as a fee is involved and as we have just walked beneath for several kilometers so we decide it is not worth paying to walk it again. The mossy paths and trees that surround Drummond’s Bridge built in 1819, the vines and large fern nests resting high in the peculiarly formed trees, odd sign posts that dot the walks, all combine to make the walk feel very magical. The last remaining tower, a gazebo on a point  stands overlooking the waters.

Our night meal is home cooked so no need to dress to go out. We have an early night as we have decided to start tomorrows walk early, by our standards. Over a cup of tea Trish spends some time with us to look over some directions for tomorrow so we will not get lost!

Today our shortcut took us 12klms instead of 20klms, this idea I like.