Bilingual walking app to act as ‘virtual guide’ for valley

The first smartphone walking app in both Irish and English, which will guide visitors around one of the country’s most scenic yet unsung districts, was launched at the weekend.

The app will act as a virtual guide around the Nire Valley area of the Comeragh Mountains in Co Waterford once it becomes available to download later this month. Walkers and visitors can navigate four new scenic Nire Valley Walking Trails and also learn about the history and culture of the region at the same time.

RTÉ presenter and walking enthusiast John Murray officially launched the trails on Saturday at a celebration in Ballymacarbry, Co Waterford. Developed to National Trails Office standards, the walks range in distance from 6km to 9km, taking walkers through stunning lake, mountain and valley scenery.

The walks and the app are the result of collaboration between Waterford County Council, Fáilte Ireland, the Comeragh Mountains Forum and Nire Valley Tourism.

Well-known local walking guide Michael Desmond said the app will allow visitors to experience the strong traditions and culture of the valley using smartphone technology. He revealed the creation of the app led to the discovery of some old traditional songs which were nearly forgotten.

“When I was researching our local history for the app I met two senior residents who started singing tunes from times past. We took the opportunity to record them and they can be heard on the Nire Valley Walking App ensuring the songs will be there for future generations.”

John Murray, who regularly hosts walks on his RTÉ Radio One programme, said it was wonderful to see so many people all over the country take advantage of the many walking trails we have.

Developed by Waterford Company ZolkC, the app will cost €1.99 and allow users download walks’ maps and will link them to restaurants and accommodation in the valley.