Woods are lovely, dark and deep- Glengarrif Woods Nature Reserve

From the car park, we follow signs for Lady Bantry’s Walk.

We cross the river and ascend a fairly steep path with occasional step, an ancient track once continuing to the far reaches of Beara. Soon, we cross a road and continue up the narrow stone steps on the other side.

After the final flight of steps, we emerge from the trees onto the summit and a breathtaking view over Glengarriff. Bare outcrops of rock crown the summit and two seats overlook the panorama. Below us we see the western spur of Bantry Bay, Glengarriff harbour, with the vast bay itself spread out to the right. At the centre of the harbour is the islet of Garvillaun, known locally as Garinish Island.