Cape Clear Island Walking Trails – New Section Opened
We are pleased that the final section of the first phase of the Cape Clear Island Walking Trails has been completed and is open to the public. This section links the Glen to the Cnoicín (Tree) Area, effectively linking the red and green walking loops. It is accessed by two new stone stiles, one shortly after the large shed on the Glen road, on the left hand side going towards the lighthouse and the other across from the entrance to the former Post Office. This new trail offers many advantages to locals and visitors alike. Apart from linking the two popular walking trails it offers an attractive alternative route back to the Harbour area for the very many visitors who head towards the Old Lighthouse and Signal Tower. For people in the Glen area it provides improved access to the East of the Island and including the Island Playing Fields and Community Hall which is now readily accessible on foot. For those familiar with the Island in former years it follows quite closely the route of the old pathway from the Glen used by generations of Islanders in days gone by. The next step will be to place a number of picnic tables in suitable areas along the Cnoicín Loop and the installation of improved signage. We are delighted that the Island's walking trails are featured in Damien Enrights excellent new book, Scenic Walks in West Cork which we are confident will continue to attract new visitors to the Island. In the past two seasons the number of visitors using the walking trails and the level of favourable feedback leaves us in no doubt as to the importance of these developments. Finally great appreciation is due to all the landowners involved, in this case Eleanor Uí Drisceoil agus Clann and Fiona Mac Lachlainn who have generously facilitated this new section and also the support of Údaras na Gaeltachta. Séamus Ó Drisceoil Oileán Chléire