All walks of life at Cavan Walking Fest
The international craze that is Nordic Walking comes to Cavan this week as Cavan Walking Festival kicks off from Friday, May 3 until Friday, May 10.
‘An introduction to Nordic Walking’ will take place at at Killykeen Forest Park next Thursday, May 9, at 6.30pm. It will give Cavan walkers a taste of one of the most sociable and effective exercise techniques around.
Nordic Poles Fitness Walking is suitable for everyone, working your upper and lower body at the same time; exercise intensity is determined by upper body effort so people of differing fitness levels can walk and talk together, while working to their own level.
It is just one of 20 walks taking place across the county during Cavan Walking Festival. As ever, the popular Cavan Way Walk, divided over two 13km walks on Saturday and Sunday, May 4 and 5, is a highlight, but the festival offers something for everyone, says Cavan Sports Partnership co-ordinator Nadine McCormilla.
“The walks are loosely divided into four main categories; ‘Walk Cavan’, a five kilometre walk in a different location in Cavan each day of the festival, perfect for moderate walkers, families and older people; ‘Heritage Golden Ways’, walks chosen by Cavan Heritage to explore Cavan’s built, natural and cultural heritage; ‘Walk Geopark’ walks taking in the sights and sounds of Cavan’s UNESCO Geopark; and ‘Walk a little longer’, walks for more advanced walkers,” explains Nadine.
“Regardless of which walk you choose,” says Nadine, “you’re guaranteed good company, stunning scenery, and a cup of tea afterwards.”
“The walks are such wonderful social occasions, and to have County Cavan as a backdrop is the icing on the cake. I would encourage everyone to get out and get walking over the next eight days. Trying one of our ‘Walk Cavan’ 5km walks every day of the festival is a great way to get out there and enjoy the county.”
Pre-registration is necessary for the Cavan Way walks and the Nordic Walk; for all other walks simply arrive 15 minutes early and wear comfortable footwear. For a full list of walks, or to register for the Cavan Way, visit www.cavansportspartnership.ie