Winter on the Galty's

​I’m often asked, where in Ireland is my favourite walk, and I will always take a moment to answer. The reason being is that depending on the time of year, the weather conditions, the company, the mood I’m in when I leave the house all have a bearing on whether I enjoy a walk or not. But the one place that will always bring a smile to my face is The Galty’s.
Winter or summer, hail, snow, sunshine, this magical part of Tipperary never fails to deliver. With each walk the landscape can change from snow covered peaks to sodden peat hags you will be guaranteed that no two walks are the same. When we walk we often keep the head down, muttering to oneself, never again, I’m out here missing the big match or favourite soap. In order to get the most from each walk we need to stop, lift your head and take in what nature has to offer. Far too often we meet walkers who’s only goal is getting to the top of a mountain or hill in the fastest time possible. Each and every one of us carry a phone with a good quality camera, instead of treating your walk as means to an end, take out the camera and photograph the landscape around you and see Ireland in a whole new light. 
From the smallest insect to the tallest peak and everything in between your photos will be a reminder of the day you had and a motivation for more days out on the hills.
Galty Mor is classed as an Irish Munro, that is, it’s a mountain that has a height of over 3000 feet. Ireland has 14 Munros.  Galty Mor is one of the more accessible Munro’s in Ireland with the climb from the Black road on the Mitchelstown side being the easiest but not without its risks. The cloud can come in quickly and unless you are competent with a map and compass your sunny day out can become a phone call to emergency services your only option.
By all means get out on the hills and valleys of Ireland and enjoy what this wonderful country has to offer. I guarantee you that whatever problems you had before your climb will, for a few hours at least be left in the carpark. And remember, stop and lift your head. Stay safe.