East Clare Way receives €10,000 in funding to upgrade walking and hiking trails across rural Ireland

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced the upgrade of 43 walking and hiking trails across rural Ireland.

Under the Government’s Walks Scheme, over €408,000 will be provided to resurface, re-route and improve outdoor trails to benefit local communities, tourists, walkers and hikers alike.

The investment is designed to open up our countryside to visitors and make Ireland a world class destination for adventure tourism.

The funding will improve trail surfaces, drainage, waymarking and signage, enhancing these trails and the surrounding countryside.

Under the Walks Scheme, funding is provided to farmers and other landholders to maintain the trails that cross their land.

Among the successful projects is the East Clare Way, which has been awarded €10,000 in funding for enhancement works including fencing replacement and installation of a pedestrian gate along the walk.

Read More: Clare County Council 'in discussion with Irish Rail' over Shannon Airport rail connection

The East Clare Way is a 172km circular route that crosses the Slieve Bernagh Mountains before descending to the Clare lakeland areas around Tulla and Feakle.

Circling Lough Graney, the route then climbs again over the rugged boglands of the Slieve Aughty Mountain back towards Lough Derg. The Way returns through the hills towards Scarriff and on to complete its circuit back at Killaloe

Making the announcement Minister Humphreys said: “There is no better way of seeing our beautiful countryside than to use the many trails and walkways that are dotted around the country.

“These trails, many of which were created by volunteers and community groups, need to be cherished and maintained, so they can continue to be enjoyed by all.

“I would like to invite you to visit your local trails, and enjoy the beautiful sights, sounds and fresh air.”