A call from our ancient ancestors to celebrate the Winter Solstice on the sacred Paps of Anú mountain takes place on Saturday, December 21 with the kind permission of landowners Sean and Mary O’Donoghue.

Walkers will depart in darkness at 6.45 am from Garries Bridge, the first bridge after St Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk on the Main Cork Road.

This year's chosen charity is Killarney Water Rescue - a voluntary team of dedicated people, whose mission is to respond, support and assist in search and rescue on a 24/7/365 basis.

The crew members train on the Lakes of Killarney, practising navigation, emergency first aid, hands-on practice in boating skills, rope work, weather charts and rescue techniques
Kieran Caulfield Chairman of Killarney Water Rescue, said “We are absolutely delighted to be chosen as this year's charity, new equipment and training are key to us providing a service and availability 24/7. The Lakes of Killarney are magnificent, but as we know, the weather can turn unexpectedly. If we can make a difference through our voluntary service saving one kayaker or rescuing a swimmer in difficulty, then your donations will have made this happen.”

Carpooling is encouraged at the Kerry Way Inn, Glenflesk. Paddy Chauvet and staff will be baking scones and providing complimentary tea and coffee for all the early risers after the trek. Donations to Killarney Water Rescue can be given on the morning at the Kerry Way Inn.

The long walk in darkness to the summit, has two strenuous inclines, leading to the Western Pap at 690 metres. At approximately 8.45 am sunrise begins. John Lynch, whose family are neighbouring landowners, will perform an ancient ritual of placing a piece of holly into the Cairn on the summit. Then the craic begins with the finest musicians from Glenflesk, Derry and Rosie Healy and Michael MacGillycuddy, as John sets the pace for the Sliabh Luachra Polka. Mountaineer Donie Mulcahy and crew will guide the walkers to and from the summit.

These ancient sacred summits, ‘The Paps of Anú’, resemble a pair of breast-shaped hills known as ‘The Paps’ in the Derry Na Saggart Mountains close to the Cork/Kerry border. The Paps have long been associated with mythology, mysticism and majesty. The Goddess Anú represents all that is earthly, fertile, abundant and protective.

It is compulsory to wear a head torch, a level of fitness is required. Proper walking boots and rain gear are advised. Guides will be on duty for a gear check before departure.