Mt Brandon and Cloghane
The hike from Ballydavid to Cloghane is challenging, but it is possible with breaks for breath and water. Taking a slight detour we can visit Cathair na BhFionnarach an ancient stone circle fort. Climbing the western slope of Mt Brandon affords us views across the sea and down into the valleys that make the effort more than worth it. Coming through the saddle is exhilerating and heading down into the valley we are rewarded with ruins and evidence of traditional peat/bog farming. The Teer Gallery is the perfect spot to rest for a moment and take in the really beautiful artwork Mary Neville is creating. We circle through Brandon and then follow back lanes lined with farms that back onto Brandon Bay into Cloghane with our final approach leading us through a fairy glade. Turning back onto the main road we are greated by the colorful flowers and gardens of Cloghane. It is a charming town and a meal at O'Connors is always special when Michael O'Connor begins his storytelling.
