Page 29 - 80 Walks by 80 Leaders 2

Date: 6 June to 17 June 2019 – Days 8, 9, 10
Par�cipants: Tom Dowling, Tim Dabbs, Libby Dabbs, Anne Butler, Jill Giles, Rob Gibson, Jayne Gibson, Linda
Pracy, Be�y Chow, Tony Hickson, Jacqui Hickson, Jenny Kelso, Katherine Gloor, Gerry Enright (Guide)

A�er another agonising wait in Portmagee we set sail for Day 10 June 15: Cnoc na dTobar
the Skelligs. The sea swell was indeed high. Will we be able
You need a clear day for the 780m climb to Cnoc na dTobar
to land or not?? No one dared ask the question. A�er some
(Mountain ofthe Well).After theearly low lyingcloud lifted
skilful boatmanship we landed on Skellig Michael.
nine of us set off for our climb. Day 10 was a rest day for
We began our climb to the summit (618 steps). On our the others. We zig zagged our way to the summit. With a
climb to the monas�c site there were Puffins everywhere clear skylinethere werewonderful viewsacross theIveragh
to be seen. The monastic site is a special place steeped in Peninsula. I pointed out
history with stunning views far out into the Atlantic Ocean. my homestead and
A�er over two hours at the summit we commenced the Bridie’s homestead in
precarious descent to the base of the rock. A�er boarding the distance. Gerry
our boat we passed Li�le Skellig and the world renowned encouraged us to
breeding ground for Gannets. The boat journey back to continue across to the
Portmagee was ‘interesting’. The wind was in our face and next ridge with more
the sea swell was high. Thanks to a great boat crew we wonderful views of
made it back safely to Portmagee and our bus back to Rhodes and Kells Bay. As
Caherciveen. we descended from the
summit Gerry promised
A wonderful day on the Skelligs.
us some tea and scones
in the Old Barracks. True
to his word we alighted
from our bus at the Old
Barracks and enjoyed
a call to say no landings permi�ed. There was a�ernoon tea and
disappointment all round. At 7.45 I received another call to scones. Itwas verymuch
say a late landing may be permi�ed. Jubilation and smiles appreciated by us all.
filled the room. A�er a frantic phone call to re-arrange the
Sadly our guide Gerry passed away while walking /
bus transferto Portmageewe wereon ourway. Itwas afast
holidaying in Spain with his wife Mary on the 8th July.
and bumpy journey.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam (May he rest in peace).

Report by: Tom Dowling 19 Photos: Tom Dowling