A range of walks is on offer for everyone from gentle strolls to mountain rambles.
Address: Old School House
25 Mill Street
Cushendall
Co. Antrim
BT44 0RR
Tel No: 028 2177 1378
Fax No: 028 2177 1378
Email: cushendall@nacn.org
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WALK THE GLENS
(Programme for Walking Weekend available on website after Easter)
The ‘Walk the Glens’ group was initiated by Cushendall Development Group. We have a team of local people trained as volunteer walk leaders from Glenariffe, Cushendall & Cushendun.
We hope you take in a few of our walks and if there is any further information you require please contact us. Otherwise we welcome feedback on the walks and would appreciate any comments or suggestions you may have on our programme.
There are led walks on Sundays & Wednesdays in and around Cushendun, Cushendall & Glenariffe. The walks have been graded for your convenience so it is easy to find the right walks for your level of fitness.
GRADED WALKS
LEVEL 1 WALKS (No. 1 – 2) The routes are mainly flat with some inclines. There may be 2 or 3 steps or a short slope but no steep hills. Children must be accompanied by an adult (ie 18 or over)
LEVEL 2 WALKS (No. 3 - 4) These include hill or more challenging walking surfaces. You should only come on a Level 2 walk if you are of a reasonable level of fitness. If in doubt ask the walk leader. Children should be accompanied by a responsible adult (no more than 3 children per adult).
LEVEL 3 WALKS (Letters A - E) These are only suitable for very experienced walkers. They are challenging in both length and the routes, which are hilly and in some cases mountainous. Children must be aged 16 or over.
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION
1. DIARY OF WALKS - Consult the diary and choose a suitable date, time & walk.
2. ROUTES - Look up the relevant walk number / letter to find out further information on your chosen walk.
3. MEETING PLACES – Information has also been provided on meeting places, footwear & path surfaces at the back of the booklet, if required.
BENEFITS OF WALKING
Most of us walk on a daily basis – but we don’t normally think of it as exercise. Current research shows that if the amount walked is increased, and the walking pace is fast enough for each individual to raise their heart rate, but still be comfortable and allow conversation while walking, there can be very positive gains.
These could be in fitness, stamina, suppleness of movement and sometimes weight loss.
The time involved in walking to gain health benefits need not be great. Just thirty minutes a day, on a regular basis, can have very noticeable effects.
WHY WALK?
-You will feel good for doing it -Protection from Coronary Heart Disease & Stroke -Reduces blood pressure & heart rate -Reduces effects of Osteoporosis -Reduces risk of Bowel Cancer -Helps prevent Diabetes -Increase stamina, strength, flexibility & mobility -Decreases fatigue, mild anxiety, depression & stress related conditions -Relaxation -Fun & Enjoyment
This programme of led walks will hopefully encourage
individuals to take up walking given the obvious benefits that it can
bring.
All the Leaders have been undergone a Walk Leader
Training course. They are all also local volunteers who live in the
area.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE WALKS
FOOTWEAR
For each walk we recommend either dry, wet or walking boots:
Dry shoes are flat lace ups.
Wet shoes are sturdy, water resistant lace-ups shoes or walking boots.
Even gravel paths can have puddles or muddy patches in winter so, if the weather has been wet, please upgrade your shoes to the next level.
For example, if the route recommends dry shoes but it has been raining recently, please wear wet shoes.
Please do not wear slip-ons, open-toed shoes, sandals or shoes with heels.
Please note we may not let you take part in a walk if we feel your shoes are unsuitable.
PATH SURFACES
Surfaces may be tarmac, gravel, stoney, sand or grass. Grass paths will be muddy and possibly slippery after rain. Please don’t choose walks that are mostly on grass or sand if you have any problems with your ankles knees, hips or back or are generally a bit unsteady on your feet.
WEATHER
The walks will take place (even in the rain) unless it is exceptionally wet and icy.
Age Limit
Level 3 walks are not suitable for children under 16 unless they are experienced walkers.
All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
No Dogs Permitted On Any of the Walks
Follow The Northern Ireland Country Code
MEETING PLACES
OLD SCHOOL HOUSE – CUSHENDALL
25 Mill Street, Cushendall.
This is the blue building opposite the library in the centre of Cushendall. Meet at the Information board. If there is any change to the walk there will be a notice on this board. There is a free car park opposite and public toilets are located in the car park.
TOP ENTRANCE TO FOREST PARK -GLENARIFFE
Located on the Glenariffe Road. Meet outside the top entrance. There is a car park inside the entrance but there will be charge for parking (there is also a lay-by on road). Toilets are available within the Forest Park.
GREENAGHAN – GLENARIFFE
Located about 2 miles up the Glen Road from Waterfoot. There is a sign for the Ulster / Moyle Way. Meet at the Sign. There is no car park and no toilet facilities.
VILLAGE CAR PARK - CUSHENDUN
This car park is situated in the centre of Cushendun village beside the Village Tea Room. There is no charge for parking. Public toilets are located within walking distance from the car park. Meet at the Information Board.
Chapel Car Park – Cushendun
The car park is located beside the Chapel on the Glendun Road.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
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