Putting on the walking shoes

Putting on the walking shoes

23 May 2012

PEOPLE across the district are being asked to put their best foot forward to take part in this annual Mourne international walking festival next month.

The three-day event based in Newcastle is widely regarded as one of the Province’s major walking festivals.

Down Council chairman Dermot Curran said the event provides a “fantastic opportunity” for both local people and international visitors to experience the true beauty of the Mourne region.

“I would encourage people who haven’t previously been involved in the festival to try some of the walks during this year’s event. People may wish to consider taking part in one of the walks for a good cause or charity,” he said.

Throughout the festival there will be a series of guided walks available, graded to suit all abilities.

For moderate fitness levels there are lowland routes ranging from 10km to 40km in length, while more experienced walkers can challenge themselves with hike and ramble walks high into the Mournes on the second and third day of the festival.

Organisers say after a day experiencing the area’s outstanding natural beauty, they will need to wind down with some energetic socialising.

Base camp, located at Mourne Golf Club, will serve walkers a pint while they listen to traditional music. There will also be a “blister ball” on Satur-day night with a buffet and dancing.

Accommodation details are available from Newcastle Tourist Information Centre, telephone (028) 4372 2222 or email newcastle.tic@downdc.gov.