Guided walk will show deep history of valley
By Mary Dennehy
A FREE guided walk around parts of the Glenasmole Valley is being held on Wednesday evening, August 21, to celebrate National Heritage Week.
Well-known local hill-farmer Donie Anderson will lead the walk through this picturesque area of the Dublin uplands, which has a deep history stretching back to the mythologies of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his band of Irish warriors.
Glenasmole Valley, where the walk is taking place
Many of the old traditions and hill farming practices that were once a common sight within the valley will also be explored during the walk, which will also take in Bog Road for unrivalled views of Dublin city and bay.
The walk has been organised by the Wicklow Uplands Council to celebrate National Heritage Week from August 17 to August 25.
The theme for this year’s week is ‘Pastimes, Past Times’.
Speaking about the walk, Brian Dunne, co-ordinator of the Wicklow Uplands Council, said: “The valley has been shaped by glacier activity during the Ice age, the River Dodder and more recently the Bohernabreena reservoir, and is a particularly beautiful setting for an evening walk.”
Donie Anderson has recently been included as a notable practitioner of Traditional Sheep Farming and Sheepdog Training on the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This inventory recognises and preserves Ireland’s important living cultural heritage.
The walk is free and open to everyone over the age of 12 years.
Participants are invited to meet at 6.45pm outside the Old Mill in Tallaght on Wednesday, August 21.
Dogs are not allowed on this walk as it will cross farmland areas. Appropriate footwear is a must.
Due to a bus service being organised to accommodate the group, booking is essential.
People are encouraged to RSVP by email at info@wicklowuplands.ie or call 01 2818406.
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