The walk we did on Sunday is part of the Foxford Way, a long distance walk (56 miles) though some of our stunning Mayo countryside. The great thing about the walk is that you can do little sections of it and this is what we did. This section of the walk starts just west of Pontoon Bridge. It follows a track through an area of bog/heath. This area was planted with a conifer plantation some time ago but thankfully someone realized this was a mistake as it was an area of old woodland, so the conifer plantation was cleared. As far as I can tell the area is left now for nature to takes it course. Already birch and willow trees are coming back and hopefully oak and hazel will return over time.
The place-name is Laughil, in Irish na Leathchoille. Leath can mean half or side and Coille is a wood. Looking at old ordnance survey maps this area was wooded since at least the 1840’s. Once you get past the area of that has been cleared you find old oak trees, covered in moss and lichens, hazel too is abundant, and holly. There is moss, everywhere.
And lichens, including this one Lobaria pulmonaria, an indicator lichen for old woodlands.
On the way back you get to admire the view all over again.
We took a slight detour at the bottom and headed down to the lake shore to admire the stillness of the water.
Oh my-breathtaking—I am sounding like a broken record-BEAUTIFUL!!! A wonderland:-) I really love your photos! wow…to live near that + hike it:-) You are blessed:-)
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Thank you Robbie. I know we are very lucky to live here.
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Like you new banner,too:-) Lovely:-)
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Well, I like the other one,too:-) You switched on me-lol
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I just love these browns, golden rushes or grasses, a great capture, stunning photos all round, and great info. It is lovely to see the native trees take root again, maybe it would be lovely for the next generations if we helped that along.
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Thank you:) what is that quote – I think it is a native American saying – Treat the earth well: it was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children.
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Yes a nice saying. The earth keeps amazing me every single day by it’s beauty, and never giving a dull moment either. We should respect it and treasure it.
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Beautiful photos – the last one with the clouds reflected in the lake is particularly lovely. What a grand place to have for your use!
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I remember our walk there – happy days and beautiful pictures. How I wish we has something as spectacular in our back yard. I look forward to seeing it again darling xx
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