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RAINDROPS and a generous sprinkling of exuberance were in the air at the weekend for a unique mountaintop set dance that unfolded as part of Killarney Walking Festival.

Trekkers clutching bodhráns and tin whistles made tracks up Strickeen Mountain to enjoy a polka set with members of Kilgobnet Biddies Group – and all in aid of Killarney Water Rescue. “It was just the mountain that was dampened by the rain...the spirits were lifted,” said Killarney Walking Festival organiser and photographer Valerie O’Sullivan.

The event was co-ordinated as part of the festival’s charity night. “We would like to say a big Strickeen thank you to the Kilgobnet Biddies, and all the walkers who trekked Strickeen for Killarney Water Rescue,” added Valerie. “It was a great night. And in good time-honoured tradition, the sun didn’t oblige!”

Killarney Walking Festival took place from Friday to Sunday and the organisers included some new signature treks – The ‘Peaks of the Reeks’ including the iconic Carrantuohill and Coomloughra Horse Shoe Treks, and Caherconree – Ancient fort of Cú Roí Mac Dáire.

“The festival is a chance to enjoy a weekend of long relaxing guided walks, and boat trips. The headquarters were The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney,” said Valerie. “It was a chance to discover the hidden valleys, mountains, reeks, lakeshores and all that is beautiful and untamed about Killarney and its famed National Park.”

Killarney Water Rescue provides an important voluntary service to the area and it hopes to purchase a 4×4 vehicle for attending all emergencies.
John O’Sullivan, Reeks Lodge and Guiding, and experienced Killarney guides Ray and Mary Walsh of Walk with Me were also guides at the festival,
 

 
Pictured above: Walkers trekked up Strickeen to perform a set dance with members of Kilgobnet Biddies, in aid of Killarney Water Rescue at the weekend as part of Killarney Walking Festival's charity night. PICTURE: VALERIE O'SULLIVAN