The first part of our adventure was reaching Baylough carpark at Glentaunemon, Co. Waterford. In order to take the carpark by surprise, our members approached by different routes. Some through Lismore, some others Clogheen, while others still had driven through that cheeky bit of Co. Limerick that juts into the Cork- Dublin road (around Kilbeheny).
Once all had assemnled and Mags McCarthy had taken our autograph for her rolla we were ready to face the unkind elements. Cold, cold rain and piercing wind tore into us almost in a mocking way. Happy to relate all 19 of us were not for turning. Once we had endured the cruel beginning the weather made amends and sunshine broke through. We walked thereafter mostly in dry spring weather. The abundant frog spawn deposits we observed lifted our hearts. The grip of winter is loosening. Given the relentless rain of the past month or so the going was often soft to yielding. Some of us walked on the stream while others waded across in 10cm of flowing water. The wearers of well waxed boots were heard to purr.
Even without the starched tablecloth our picnic lunch deferred yet again on taste. Our leader, Veronica Curran, who reflects all that’s best in Co; Waterford, with Mary and Rosemary, led us in a perfect blend of “follow” and “don’t tarry”. In their recce some days before, the route was covered in three hours. Without boasting, we set a new record!!! As we neared the end of our walk “an easier on the road” option was offered. Happy to relate our members opted for the honours course of the narrow, slippery, waterlogged path.
Sad to relate the over abundant rhododendron is in rude good health and seems ready to Himalayanize further stretches of our native hills/mountains. Relying on “insider” information “The Moorings” Dungarvan was the best place for a post walk meal. It proved as good as promised and the excellent fish pie was popular. The sticky toffee pudding brought our meal to a happy end.
The trip home was cheerful after a happy day that delivered when a “washout” seemed likely.
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