New Year Walking Festival 2010/2011



Go Ireland is pleased to announce its 15th New Year Walking Festival newly based in Killarney, Co. Kerry. Walk off the excesses of the festivities on some of the best walks in the country. All levels catered for from the casual stroller to those who wish to climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain. You stay in the luxurious 4 star Randles Court Hotel in Killarney town & ring in the New Year with a candle lit 5 course Gala dinner. Relax, unwind & let Go Ireland organise everything while you take a walk on the wild side!

>> BOOK THIS TOUR

THURSDAY 30 DECEMBER 2010
9.00 p.m. Registration and welcome briefing/photo presentation with Seán Ó Súilleabháin at the Randles Court Hotel, Killarney.

FRIDAY 31 DECEMBER 2010
Walk A: Carrauntoohil (1039m)
Distance: (depending on route) 12km/7.5miles Ascent: up to 1,150m/3,750ft

Blow away the effects of over-indulgence on a climb onto Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain (1039m). This is for experienced climbers. The ascent may be from the north via Coomcallee/The Hag’s Glen, and up via the Eagle’s Nest (Cummeennoughter) and O’Shea’s Gully. An alternative ascent is over Caher (1001m), a (partial) circuit of Coomloughra Glen. Weather and the opportunity for views will dictate the routes up and down.

Walk B: Kerry Way
Distance: 10.5km/6.5miles Ascent: 230m/ 750ft.

This leg of the Kerry Way takes you into Killarney National Park – through ancient oak woods, along the Old Kenmare Road, with a descent beside the spectacular Torc Cascade and into the gardens of Muckross House (19th century mansion), with its welcoming teashop. Optional extended walk to visit to the ruins of Muckross Friary (15th century).

Walk C: Kerry Way
Various routes throughout Killarney National Park, such as Muckross Abbey, Ross Island, Copper mines & Muckross House & Gardens (3-5 mile easy walk)

SATURDAY 1 JANUARY 2011
Walk A: Purple Mountain
Distance: (depending on route) up to 15km/9.5miles Ascent: up to 1,040m/3,400ft

The purple mountain range lies on the west side of Lough Leane and provides us with very good climbing and viewing points. Purple Mountain derives its name from the colour of the sandstone rock, which emits a purple hue under favourable light conditions.

Walk B: Hags Glen
Distance: 10.5km/6.5miles Ascent: 230m/ 750ft.

Your walk today will continue to take in the beauty of Killarney & its surroundings along one of its many popular routes.

Walk C: Various routes throughout Killarney National Park, such as Muckross Abbey, Ross Island, Copper mines & Muckross House & Gardens (3-5 mile easy walk).

SUNDAY 2 JANUARY 2011
Departure after a hearty cooked Irish breakfast

Price
€299 per person sharing for 3 Night Bed & Breakfast Package at the 4 star Randles Court Hotel. (Based on a minimum of 2 people)

Accommodation is based on a twin/double-sharing basis. A very limited number of single rooms are available at a supplement of €30 per night. For those willing to share, we will do our utmost to match solo walkers.

Closing Date for Bookings: 18 December 2010

Price includes:
• 3 Nights' B&B in the 4 star Randles Court Hotel with en-suite facilities in Killarney,
Co. Kerry
• 3 Full Irish breakfasts
• 2 packed lunches
• Gala New Years Eve 5 course dinner & champagne reception with light entertainment
in the Randles Court Hotel
• Choice of superb A , B or C walks on 2 days
• Coach/minibus transfers to walks each day.
• Experienced local walking guides.
• Welcome briefing and photo presentation with Sean O Suilleabhain
(founder of the Kerry Way).

Non walking package also available for €249.00 per person sharing.



Equipment: For all grades of walks, you will need:
• Warm and waterproof clothing, including a hat, gloves and spare clothing.
• Walking boots with a well cleated sole (to prevent slipping) and support (for the ankles) are essential.
• A flask and lunch box in a small rucksack, which can hold your spare clothing.
• Please note that jeans are not suitable (no insulation value when wet) – warm tracksuit bottoms would be much better.
• Don't forget to bring along musical instruments - useful even for the coach transfers!!

Note: The organisers/guides reserve the right to classify walkers on the basis of experience and suitability of equipment. Guides may have to alter the walks to allow for weather or other factors but this will be done only as a last resort.


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