Yesterday found myself and a couple of friends in Raheens Wood near Castlebar in Co. Mayo. Officially opened by the Taoiseasch on March 3rd of this year it is a collaboration between Coillte and Mayo County Council under the Neighbourwood project.
Lovely to catch the Bluebells in their fading splendour.
This area has been woodland since the 1840s. Lots of coppiced Hazel here which are very accessible for nut collecting if theres a crop this year.
Lots of lovely old Oaks here too. Ash, Alder, Willow and Birch all contribute to make this a very pleasant woodland walk. It’s very civilised with proper paths and strategically placed seats and picnic tables.
Beautiful countryside views from the highest point in the woodland. That’s Lough Lannagh in the distance.
It’s at this spot where the Taoiseach planted a commerative Oak tree on the opening day. There’s also a picnic table and seats here. In retrospect it would have been a better picnic spot than the one we chose lower in the woods. We had to make a quick retreat from there as the midges were crazy.
In the distance one can see the now ruined Palladian mansion that would once have been the focal point of this area. As is often the case the trees are the more lasting living legacy from this era.
I love how this tree has been moulded by the wind and the lie of the land…
so much more fitting into the landscape than this monstrocity to some long dead person of importance.
Remember folks next Sunday, June 9th, is National Walk in the Woods Day. It is the Irish people’s chance to let the Government know that “OUR FORESTS ARE NOT FOR SALE.” To find out more about the day and a walk near you go to http://www.bardsinthewoods.com.
fromacountrycottage 