Hill Walking

South West Donegal has some of the best hillwalking areas in Ireland and its 2000 ft. mountain, Sliabh Liag, is regarded as the finest marine cliff in Europe. Despite the beauty of this peninsula, it is relatively under-utilised by walkers, even in the height of the summer season . All routes followed by Oideas Gael vary in difficulty and give participants a chance to see the best of South Donegal’s wild and varied coastal scenery. This area forms part of the Donegal Gaeltacht and it is hoped that walkers will be able to use and practise their Irish during the course of the week’s holiday, or if new to the language, learn a few words and expressions. Emphasis is on enjoyment and the evenings are spent listening to some of the traditional music, for which the area is famous, and to join in the craic which accompanies the Oideas Gael programme of courses.

Given the terrain and its nearness to the Atlantic, the weather in the area can be unpredictable. It is essential, therefore that all participants bring with them the following items:

• A pair of comfortable, already worn, walking boots (not shoes).
• Several pairs of thick woollen socks.
• Shorts or comfortable walking trousers or track-suit trousers.
• A good waterproof jacket and trousers which can be folded up easily.
• Sun block (factor 15)
• A whistle and an Ordnance Survey map of the area (Sheet 10). Available locally.
• A small rucksack, large enough to take all of the above and a packed lunch.
• A pack of blister prevention pads.
• It is advisable to bring a hat/cap and light gloves.

These walks will not involve any rock climbing but some are quite long and strenuous. It is essential, therefore, that participants ensure that they are fit enough to undertake such exercise (all walks are 4-6 hours long).