Killarney Delivers Yet Again!

One of the reasons Cork people are so appreciative of their privileged birthplace is that Kerry has their back. Thanks now to the genius of engineers, billions of euro and years of hard work,
Killarney is now but an hour from Cork City. Recently Denis McAuliffe led us to Strickeen by way
of Cork- Killarney – the Gap of Dunloe and upwards to the summit. Denis combines a love and
deep knowledge of his native county, matched to the abilities of RTAI walkers.
28 gathered at the “Coffee Pot” across the carpark from Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Said carpark
was pretty full, as other groups came and went to avail of the wonderful outdoors that lay all
about.
Before the climb Denis walked to the centre of the bridge near our starting point, the better to
take in the majesty of The Gap set beside Purple Mountain with water in the background for
dramatic effect. The winding upward path to Strickeen was well defined and easy to follow.
What was also too evident was the prodigious amount of organic sheep/deer fertiliser
everywhere we trod. It might have suggested a passive- aggressive “You are not welcome” from
staff working flat-out and maintaining the highest standards…. It was necessary to park the
paranoia and seek a solution to the waste problem elsewhere. Perhaps a portion of the
€13+billion bonanza might be made available to local farmers to do what dog owners have
learned to do in picking up after their four-legged friends. One of our walkers was seen with
numerous small plastic bags; thankfully he did not undertake to collect ALL the waste and/ or
the €13 billion!
As expected, a shower caught us on the ascent but it did little damage and, once gone, we
counted our blessings with added gratitude. On the summit we were greeted by panoramic
views, a biting wind and a place to sit down for our picnic and chat.
Having come down the mountain in good order the modest looking “Coffee Pot” offered a wide
menu of well prepared food, friendly service and homemade desserts of superior quality. With
all safely back at base camp we tucked into the grub. Mindful of an absent member who is
midwife to many of our adventures, a text was sent to Spain: “Only three still missing!!!” In the
era of fake news we wished not to be left behind!
Sean Ó Callanáin