The Spink leans out over St Kevin's Bed at Glendalough, in Co Wicklow, its shadow darkening the waters, its summit a platform between Earth and heaven. It is a glorious ridge, rough and tree-bound, accessible to people of moderate fitness. You can park at the Upper Lake.

Better than that, on a fine day the prospect beckons of expanding a moderate walk into more adventurous circuits involving Mullacor and Derrybawn Mountain or of advancing to Lough Firrib at the top of the glen before returning via Turlough Hill and Camaderry.

From the car park, the walker passes a little wildlife centre operated by D·chas before climbing the steps alongside Poulanass waterfall. There, in greeny gloom, the tumbling waters of Derrybawn sound the opening notes of the melody to come.

Pressing on, mature oaks, pines and larch create an atmosphere of grave serenity before the path breaks into the open to provide the first glimpse of the lakes.

Because of erosion caused by heavy foot traffic, a stairway of old railway sleepers - including rest benches - climbs through modern conifer plantings. A challenge to count the number of steps will bring some reluctant children to a magical lookout point that dominates the valley and exposes the brown flank of Camaderry. From there, a leisurely stroll opens the entire length of the Upper Lake.

Off to the right, there are sheer drops to the water and nooks where wild goats snooze in the sun. To the left, a line of unbroken green marks the State forest, and the whistle of alarmed deer carries on the breeze. A slight climb brings the junction to Mullacor and Derrybawn into sight.

But bear right on the sleepers and thank D·chas for keeping your feet dry as you head down towards old lead mines. A stop and a sandwich by the Glenealo River, before it cascades towards the floor of the valley, promises a walk of two to three hours.

An eroded path zigzags down towards the miners' village. From cliffs on the left, the faint voices of rock climbers echo. Then you are through the old lead workings, heading for the lake and the comforting shade/shelter of a wonderful stretch of Scots pine.

Ten minutes of water-lapping, a sidelong glance at St Kevin's Bed and the music of the day is done.