THE picture-book mountain range of the Galtees provides a spectacular backdrop to the Glen of Aherlow, as Billy Ryan discovered.
Looking out over the Glen of Aherlow is an exhilarating experience.
On a July Friday afternoon, I found myself in the company of a group of adventurous people.
Most were wearing special walking boots and dressed for anything the Irish weather could throw at them.
Solo walkers, couples and friends from different backgrounds wait to be guided along the famous Tipperary beauty spot at the Glen of Aherlow.
This lush valley is where the River Aherlow runs between the Galtee Mountains and the wooded ridge of Slievnamuck.
It is also where local man and talented Seanachaì, Michael Moroney, has been showing tourists and native Irish a clandestine journey through woodland that is home to many species including foxes, red and grey squirrels and the most common bird in Ireland, the blackbird.
The entrance to the park is visible from the Christ the King statue, where there is parking and a viewing area.
It is marked by an oak panel on supporting posts. The map panel at the start of the walk points out the route and its many features along the way.
Steps leading down to a wooden bridge and crossing a small stream seduce walkers into the woods.
The walk itself can take an hour to complete, according to Michael.
It covers around 50 acres (18 hectares) of pure woodland. While walking through the woodland area, visitors are flanked by various trees and shrubs including oak, Scots pine and beech. The trek is circular and returns to the starting point.
Lenihan’s Cottage, which dates back to the Famine, (1845-1870), was described by Michael as a type of dwelling for small farmers and labourers.
He assured us it would have been thatched, consisting of two rooms with an adjoining building to house a cow or pig. All through the park there are walking posts to guide the walker through the woods along the paths that are maintained by the Glen of Aherlow Fáilte Society.
The Aherlow House Hotel & Lodges offers a perfect location from which to appreciate these glorious surroundings in peace and tranquility.
The fabulous views of rolling hills and mountains, forests and unspoilt countryside make it perfect for families or groups.
We enjoyed a meal in the restaurant at Aherlow, which takes advantage of the fantastic local produce available in the surrounding areas. Head chef, Jose Vega, put together tempting menus for the visitors, enjoyed from an unrivalled vantage point overlooking the Glen.
After a long walk, sitting with a warm drink beside the roaring log fire in the Hunting Lodge Bar, for me, it just doesn’t get any better.
Local forest tracks, and the Galtee range for serious hill walkers, through wooded foothills, mountain streams and corrie lakes, provide nature lovers with a haven of outdoors adventure.
I believe it would be difficult to find a better setting anywhere to enjoy the natural resources of mountains, rivers, lakes, forests and scenic landscape.
On the doorstep of Aherlow, there is fishing, horse riding, golf and sightseeing. A peaceful and tranquil refuge that invites you on a journey of exploration and fun; an authentic experience just waiting to be discovered!
One night’s accommodation at Aherlow House Hotel costs between €84 – €109 per room. Bed and full Irish breakfast, with a taste of Tipperary dinner, including walking maps on the Galtee Mountains or a woodland walk, is €75 per person sharing.
