Since Charlie Bird appeared on The Late Late Show months ago speaking openly about his motor neuron disease (MND), the outpouring of support for him has been enormous.
He announced he would be climbing Croagh Patrick on 2 April in aid of two charities close to his heart, Motor Neuron Disease Ireland and Pieta House. Charlie also invited people to climb with him in their own area and donate.
With the day nearly upon us, here are some hike options around the country.
Thanks to everyone across the country and in many places around the world I think we are now going to go beyond our target of raising one million euro for our two great charities.
— Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) April 1, 2022
Everyone who is supporting climb with charlie is extending the hand of friendship. Thanks. pic.twitter.com/devGZgVo5o
Moylussa
Located just outside the town of Killaloe, Moylussa is the highest point in Co Clare.
Simply typing ‘Moylussa’ into Google Maps will bring you to a small car park at the start of the trail in Ballycuggaran Forest.
From this point, you can take either of the two paths, as they will lead you to the same point just a bit further up the trail.
Moylussa is a 10km out and back hike that takes about three hours. It’s moderate to challenging and although it’s steep, it’s also relatively safe, with no scrambling necessary and a secure trail underfoot.
There are fabulous views of Lough Derg on the way up and down.
The Great Sugarloaf
The great thing about the Great Sugarloaf (see what I did there) is that for a relatively short (albeit steep) climb, you get some of the most breathtaking views.
This Co Wicklow hike is easily accessible by putting its name into Google Maps. There is a car park, which sometimes fills and people then park along the roadside.
As mentioned above, the Sugarloaf isn’t that long. The 4k trail up and down will take about an hour.
However, the path is steep, particularly towards the summit, so it will definitely get your heart pumping.
Mount Errigal
Donegal’s Mount Errigal is a striking and imposing mountain near Gweedore and is a very popular hike.
It’s important to know from the start that this climb challenging, but manageable. It is 4.5km out and back, and will take somewhere between two and three hours.
The easiest way to find the car park is to put ‘Mount Errigal parking’ into Google Maps. There are two peaks on Errigal; the first you reach is the tallest. They are joined by the One Man’s Pass.
Always remember to stay safe when hiking. The hike is going nowhere; if conditions aren’t right you can come back another day.
Always tell someone where you are going. Remember to bring water and snacks.
Note: Croagh Patrick, Co Mayo, where Charlie is climbing, will be closed off to the public on 2 April.
More information on Climb with Charlie and how to donate is available here.
SHARING OPTIONS