Head for the Hills this Summer

Walkers of all ages are being encouraged to Head for the Hills this summer and discover the outstanding beauty on our doorstep as part of the Sperrins and Killeter Walking Festival, writes Trish Whelan.

The festival will be held in the Sperrins from 19-20 July, and in Killeter from 9-10 August.

Walkers of all abilities can explore the beauty, history and heritage of these regions taking on challenging routes from Goles to Bradkeel via the Sperrins Ridge; and Barnesmore via Croghnameal to Big Bridge Killeter Forest. More leisure options include routes from Glentrina Bridge to Drumnaspar via Craignamaddy in the Sperrins and the Causeway in Killeter, which are geared towards photography enthusiasts.

Walks are available at a variety of levels including easy strolls perfect for families and budding nature photographers, moderate treks, challenging hill walks and extreme hikes across some of the most dazzling landscapes in Northern Ireland. Visitors can learn more about gold panning, mountain skills and navigation as well as take part in a range of family fun events.

This project is funded through Axis 3 of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 which is administered locally by ARC north west and Strabane District Council.

Pictured are Strabane District Council Chairperson, Cllr Dan Kelly; Lawrence McBride CEO, Far and Wild CIC; Peter McCullagh, Glenelly Walking Festival; and Gordon Speer, Killeter Development Officer.