Go Niche:THINK GOLF and mountaineering have nothing in common? That in fact they couldn't be further apart in terms of appeal? Correct, with one exception.
There’s a little corner of Kerry where rugged mountains and pristine putting greens are inextricably linked.
Gap of Dunloe Crazy Golf, just outside Killarney, is the latest brainchild of local entrepreneur and mountaineer Con Moriarty.
Designed around a scaled model of the area’s famous mountains, it has you putting your way around (through and over) the mighty Macgillycuddy Reeks.
Think of it as an introduction to the topography of the area as, having conquered the 18th, you can then progress to climbing the mountains proper.
Twice a week, on Wednesday and Saturday, Moriarty leads guided climbs up Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak. Conquering it is something every self-respecting citizen should accomplish at least once in a lifetime.
Its ascent, however, is not something to be treated lightly, in inappropriate gear or unsuitable weather which is, again, where Moriarty comes in.
An experienced mountain guide, he offers not just the safest routes up for those looking to hike, scramble or climb, but provides entertaining dollops of history, archaeology and folklore along the way.
He’ll even kit you out. Gear is available to rent or buy from Sport Corran Tuathail, Moriarty’s outdoor clothing store in Killarney town.
Mountain tours depart the store at 10.30am and cost €75 per person, including transport if you need it. Just check with Moriarty by 6pm the evening before to make sure the weather forecast is suitable for climbing.
If not, there’s always the crazy golf.
- dunloegolfcourse.com and hiddenirelandadventures.com