Taking a walk by the silvery moon

KILRUSH and West Clare people or visitors to the area who like the idea of taking a late night walk deep into Kilrush Wood, can now do just that, safe in the knowledge that they won’t get lost.

KILRUSH and West Clare people or visitors to the area who like the idea of taking a late night walk deep into Kilrush Wood, can now do just that, safe in the knowledge that they won’t get lost.
A newly established Kilrush-based walking tours business, Estuary Walking Tours, recently introduced a number of walking enthusiasts to moonlight walking. The company has been established by Kilrush man, Paul Hally.
Moonlight walks take place regularly when a full moon is present and involve a variety of terrain types. Aside from the local wood or forestry areas, they can take place in bogs, beaches, forest trails and even mountainous regions. “The most recent moonlight walk took place within the grounds of the Vandeleur Demesne in Kilrush,” Paul explained.
“It provided the participants with a new experience in walking. In addition, it served to highlight the value of this natural amenity close to home. The feedback from the walk has been very positive, with those involved commenting on how it reminded them of when they used to find their way home from dances after missing a lift.
“They also felt that it helped with health and fitness, as well as the social aspect of walking, with a group in a nocturnal environment,” Paul added.
Twenty people from a wide geographical area, including East and West Clare, took part.
“The Kilrush demesne proved to be an ideal venue for the event, highlighting the natural facilities that are available to people interested in staying healthy and getting outdoors. The promotion of this facility should be a priority for all members of the West Clare community.
“On a personal note, having walked more or less the length and breadth of Ireland at this stage, the Vandeleur Demesne from a walker’s perspective, is as good and rewarding as anywhere,” Paul said.
These walks are for all levels of fitness. They are led by an experienced guide for a period of up to two and a half hours.
“All walks are supervised and risk assessed in advance, ensuring the safety of participants at all times,” he said.
It is hoped that other activities will be arranged in the near future, including Nordic walking and orienteering events. The next moonlight walk is scheduled for February at a venue to be decided.
For an idea of activities provided by Estuary Walking Tours, information is available at www.estuarywalkingtours.com or by contacting Paul at 087 2397558.