Gods Country!
Ballytiglea – Graiguenamangh – Ullard Loop
A blue sky heralded ideal conditions for a jaunt along the Barrow this morning; unfortunately by the time all the chores were completed it had clouded over somewhat. But then again there is no bad time for a jaunt along the River Barrow!
Today’s route was a short loop, just 19kms, starting at Ballytiglea Bridge. We – my 59 year old good friend Tommy Wogan (recently reacquainted with the benefits of cycling) and myself, continued on as far as Graiguenamanagh where we crossed the bridge and visited Duiske Abbey. Headed uphill along a quiet back road that passes the ruins of Ullard Church, not far from our starting point at Ballytiglea. The Church at Ullard was founded by St Fiacre in the sixth century, patron saint of Gardeners and Taxi Drivers! Fiacre was one of our great missionary saints who is revered in Meaux and Brie in France There is a handball alley created off the back of the Church! Ullard is a beautiful Church ruin, worth stopping at.
I would highly recommend this for an autumn cycle; the trees along the river are a feast of browns, yellows and reds. The Track was in good condition, though we did suffer a cloud burst and the surface became soft but passable.
The road out of Graigue climbs a little but the views over the river and towards the Blackstairs are immense.
Barrow and the Blackstairs
Cycling the Barrow Track
Ballykeenan Lock
Meandering River
Approaching Clashganny
Under the Beech Tree
Borris Lock
Boat Wreck
2 Responses to “Gods Country!”
Some stunning views, Turlough. Really like that first shot. Looks the perfect time to visit the Barrow.
The Barrow is a real treat Martin, especially this time of year. Its a hidden gem – we have it all to ourselves!