30th anniversary of Comeragh Crossing to be marked in Waterford
The 30th Anniversary of the Comeragh Crossing will be marked this year.
The 30th anniversary of the famous Comeragh Crossing hiking trail will be marked this year as part of the Comeraghs Wild festival.
For three decades, walkers have gathered each summer to cross one of Ireland's most spectacular mountain landscapes and next month the iconic crossing's milestone anniversary will be recognised during the festival which is itself one of the major events on the yearly calendar in Waterford.
Taking place in Waterford on Saturday, July 11, as part of the Comeraghs Wild Festival this year's crossing will not only celebrate the beauty and challenge of the Comeragh Mountains but also honour the dedication of the many members of Dungarvan Hillwalking Club who have participated every year since the event first began.
The crossing has earned a reputation as one of Ireland's most respected mountain walking events and over the years it has welcomed thousands of participants to experience the dramatic ridges, glacial corries, valleys and panoramic viewpoints that define the Comeragh landscape.
A spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council said: "This year, walkers of all abilities are invited to become part of the event's history."
There will be four route options available, ranging from the demanding 45km Comeragh Challenge for highly experienced mountain walkers to the more accessible 12km Kilbrien Walk.
The popular 35km Comeragh Crossing and 20km Nire Valley Walk will also return, offering participants the opportunity to experience the mountains in a way that suits their fitness and experience levels.
All routes start or finish at Kilgobinet Sports Centre, Bohadoon, Dungarvan, with each taking participants to the summit of Cruachán, where breathtaking views across Dungarvan Bay and West Waterford await.
Alongside the sense of achievement, participants will also be supporting three worthy causes, with proceeds contributing to West Waterford Hospice, Dungarvan Lions Club and South Eastern Mountain Rescue
Adding to the weekend's outdoor programme, the festival will also host the Coumshingaun Ridge Walk on Sunday, July 12th.
Led by experienced guides, the challenging five-hour hike from Kilclooney Wood will give participants the opportunity to experience one of Ireland's most celebrated natural wonders, with dramatic views overlooking the majestic Coumshingaun Lake and the surrounding mountain landscape.
"The Comeragh Crossing forms part of a much broader celebration of music, culture, heritage, adventure and community spirit during Comeraghs Wild Festival, which takes place from July 9th to 12th, across the Comeragh Mountains, Copper Coast and surrounding villages," said the local authority spokesperson.
"Now firmly established as one of Ireland's most distinctive destination festivals, the event brings together an extraordinary mix of experiences that showcase the very best of Waterford's landscape, culture and creativity," she added.
Visitors can enjoy headline performances from The Frank and Walters, Ruaile Buaile and Duke Special, comedy with Bernard Casey, traditional sheep shearing demonstrations, folklore and seanchaí gatherings, guided mountain walks, wellness experiences including yoga and sound therapy, creative workshops, heritage exhibitions, classic and vintage car displays, family-friendly activities and community celebrations in unique locations throughout the region.
"Adventurers will also love the Nire Valley Drop mountain bike event," said the spokesperson.
"From intimate concerts in historic churches and storytelling events inspired by local legends to mountain adventures, cultural experiences and open-air performances beneath the Comeraghs, the programme offers something for walkers, music lovers, families, outdoor enthusiasts and visitors seeking an authentic connection with place," she added.
Festival organiser Bernadette Drohan said the 30th anniversary of the Comeragh Crossing represents everything that makes the festival special.
"The Comeragh Crossing is much more than a walk," she said.
"It represents 30 years of community spirit, friendship, resilience and appreciation for this extraordinary landscape," she added.
She also acknowledged the people who make the event a success each year in addition to those who have participated since its inception: "We are incredibly proud of the volunteers and walkers who have kept this tradition alive for three decades, including many members of Dungarvan Hillwalking Club who have never missed a crossing. This anniversary is a wonderful opportunity for new participants to join them on the mountain and become part of the story."
“The Comeraghs Wild Festival has grown into a celebration of everything that makes this region special," said Bernie.
"Over four days, people can experience world-class music, unforgettable mountain adventures, local heritage, storytelling, wellness, food, culture and community in some of the most beautiful locations in Ireland. Whether you come for the challenge of the mountains, the atmosphere of the concerts, the richness of our traditions or simply to discover somewhere new, there is truly something for everyone," she added.
"We are looking forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to experience an unforgettable weekend in the Comeraghs."
Registration for the Comeragh Crossing and full festival programme details are available at www.comeraghswild.com.
