KERRY PENINSULA, IRELAND - ITS ISLANDS & MOUNTAINS      September 27- October 5, 2008                $1840 Dick Ernenwein, Trip Leader TRIP NOW FULL, CONTACT TRIP LEADER FOR WAITING LIST! Ireland’s fabled County Kerry consists of a series of spectacular mountainous peninsulas divided by deep-sea inlets. MacGillycuddy’s Reeks form the centrepiece of the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometre circuit from Killarney, via Killorglin, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Kenmare and back to Killarney across Moll’s Gap and past Ladies View – one of Ireland’s most famous viewpoints. Weaving between these points is a network of ancient paths that are nearly as old as the land itself, many of which form part of a long-distance track known as the ‘Kerry Way’. The name ‘Kerry’ comes from the Old Irish word Ciarraige meaning the people of Ciar, an early Celtic tribe that settled in the area around 300 BC. In fact, Kerry has an outstanding collection of historical and archaeological sites that date back over 7,000 years, with several ancient forts and numerous early Christian churches.  Impossibly green pastures stretch as far as the eye can see, completely empty save for small herds of sheep or goats, and at almost every turn there are spectacular views of mist-covered mountains and wild stretches of uninhabitable coastline where deep fissures have been carved, over the eons, by the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Here and there along the coast, pretty fishing villages, such as Caherdaniel and Portmagee, have successfully withstood the elements and offer a picturesque contrast to the verdant hills that surround them. The Skellig Islands lie 8 miles/12kms off the tip of the Kerry peninsula, two rocky peaks rising sheer out of the Atlantic Ocean. Skellig Michael is a world heritage site on account of its 6th century monastic site, with beehive huts, oratories and inscribed crosses. Little Skellig is home to over 80,000 gannets, the second largest colony in the world.   The daily stages take us cross-country, and the landscape can be quite hilly at times. During the trek we’ll experience dramatic, almost wild, scenery, along with picturesque coastal villages, along the way you’ll enjoy plenty of good Irish cheer and “crack”! We will hike each day with just our daypack while one piece of luggage per person is transferred to our next Inn. The hiking difficulty is mostly moderate with many easy sections and a few strenuous sections. There will be one optional very strenuous hike up the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrantuohill, 1038 m or 3400ft. Although this is a relatively moderate hiking trip, it would only be appropriate for very experienced hikers in excellent physical condition. Anyone with bad knees or other physical problems which would prevent them from hiking at a steady group hiking pace should not register for this trip. We will be hiking 5 to 8 hours and from 8 to 12 miles daily.   Please note that Ireland can be a bit ‘damp’ both underfoot and overhead, with some liquid sunshine!  Irish weather is unpredictable and the nature of walks can change quickly and dramatically because of the weather. This is one of the many pleasant aspects of walking in Ireland. Daily Itinerary ACOMMODATIONS: All 8 nights will be in 2 – 3 star B&B's, Hotels, or Inns double room occupancy with bathrooms en-suite. PRICING:  THIS TRIP IS SUBJECT TO AN INCREASE IN COST AT ANY TIME UP TILL THE TRIP'S DEPARTURE.DATE.  BECAUSE THIS IS AN INTERNATIONAL TRIP AND THE PRICE FOR THIS TRIP WAS ESTABLISHED IN MARCH OF 2007, IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR A SURCHARGE IF THE VALUE OF THE DOLLAR CONTINUES ITS STEADY 3 YEAR DECLINE AGAINST THE EURO. Estimated extra costs: $100 not including personal preferences for beer/wine Included in the holiday are: Eight nights lodging and full Irish Breakfast (Twin Share/En-suite facilities Six Evening Dinners, Choice Menu, Vegetarian Options Picnic Lunch each walking day (this is a picnic only and carried by the clients) Seven days guided walking, Island Visit (Ferry NOT included) One transfer to/from Shannon Airport on arrival and departure days Services of a local Irish Guide for duration of guided walking days Ferry to Innisfallen Island on the Killarney lakes All local transfers to and from each days walking location Transfer costs to/from the Carrantuohill Walk. Not included: Airfare, 2 dinners and 2 lunches, Ferry to Island, all beverages. TRIP NOW FULL, CONTACT TRIP LEADER FOR WAITING LIST! For more information and to register, contact the leader, Dick Ernenwein, 4 Commonwealth Ave, Newburgh, NY 12550, 845-565-3866, rernenwein@msn.com Please note:  Prices and trip arrangements are subject to change due to circumstances beyond ADK's control. All registration fees are non-refundable. Details including cancellation policy will be supplied to all those requesting trip information. MEMBERSHIP IN THE ADIRONDACK MOUNTAIN CLUB IS REQUIRED FOR PARTICIPATION  MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION