The first four letters of Comeragh- COME- spell an invite that if responded to seldom disappoints. With local resident, Veronica Curran, as our leader on the walk, the insider’s guide to the best walks was on tap for us.
Once Dungarvan was reached, c. 5km north brought us to Mauma Road where we assembled at 10.45 to be off at 11am. Already as we gathered the panoramic views were opening up with spectacular visibility after earlier fog warnings faded.
Veronica, from our perch on the Comeraghs (Na Comaraigh) pointed to the Knockmealdowns (Sléibhte Chnoc Mhaoldomhnaigh) and beyond them to The Galtee Mountains (Na Gaibhlte). Such was the visibility, it’s imaginable that had we turned in the opposite direction the snow on the Himalayas would have come into view.
We set off in good time and in perfect walking weather, yet aware that showers were our likely lot before walk’s end. In the distance we spotted the cross on Cruachán which appeared at a dramatic elevation from where we walked. We were assured that our approach would be circuitous and gradual and so it proved. On top of Cruachán a biting edge to the wind had us soon on our way once more.
We were led by Veronica, Máire and Mary to a sunny slope for our picnic. Its unlikely that even David Attenburgh on the eve of his 100th birthday could have summoned a cuckoo to call to us as we ate. Veronica did. One walker, unable to find the “hear the cuckoo setting” on his hearing aids did not remain disappointed for long. A much longed for wish to meet an adult frog up close was fulfilled minutes later. It was the perfect consolation prize.
Gravity assisted as we began our return to the cars, all the while enjoying view of Dungarvan Bay and much else. Thankfully the rain had held off. While the walk was over the joys of the outing were not. We reassembled in “The Moorings” for superior nosh and welcoming service. We had once more crossed the county bounds and Waterford had delivered yet again.
Na Déise abú Arís agus Arís Eile!
Seán O Callanáin
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