Family walks

As all parents know or should know, going for a walk is the most simple of all  things to do with your kids and in the current economic situation the fact that it is free makes it all the more appealing. One of my favourite walks in Westcork with the 'smallies' is Lough Hyne hill or known locally as Knockomagh woods. The trails here are well maintained and are an out and back affair with one or two slight variations. There is excellent viewing points along the way complete with seating and a bringing along a picnic for the top or in the small car park or pier at the bottom is on a nice day, idyllic.

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It should be pointed out that the hill is steep in parts and may not suit the more relaxed among the population! however if one  goes nice and steady the rewards along the way and at the top are really worth it. This is a fine place for a short hill run especially when its wet and wild as it is very sheltered and well drained, the signs about falling trees during such weather should be considered though, i guess. Managing to jog up all the steps is a fine test of ones fitness!

This area is quite and beautiful and if one did not want to wander up the hill, a stroll along the edge of the lake on around to bárloge pier is bordering on blissful. We did the walk (pictured above) on the hill in about an hour at a very gentle pace with plenty breaks, our 2 and a half year old walking the whole way. What a lovely way to spend the first morning in March or indeed any morning.