UCC Mountaineering Club

UCCMC is made of people who think that the best way to spend a Sunday is to go to the mountains. Everybody who likes to walk in the nature, who wants to have a break from studying and wants to have fun is welcome. There is a hike almost every Sunday during the academic year. It is not necessary to register in a formal way, it is enough to simply come to the bus in the morning. Usually there is a varied group of people - UCC students and teachers, both those who come regularly as well as those who come for the first time. One does not have to be in a perfect shape to do these walks, in most cases the will to spend a nice day out in the nature is enough.

Coomasaharn Lake, Kerry (13 February, 2000) There are several ranges of mountains in Ireland, however most of the mountains are in county Kerry to the west of Cork. The mountaineering centre of Kerry is the town of Killarney. The Mountains reach from the sea level to the altitude of about 800 to 900 metres (the highest mountain is 1039 metres). There is a lake in almost every valley, often not just one, which is fed by streams coming form the mountains. Slopes of the mountains are covered by grass and heather. They are bordered by stone fences and it is hard to find a place that would not be grazed by sheep. It is however possible to find rocky places for those interested in scrambling (even sheep seem to like it). From the top of the mountains there is a beautiful view of valleys with lakes, surrounding mountains, and sea bays.

Snowdon, Wales (27 March, 2000) Every day in the mountains is different and brings something new. If one can say anything about the weather, then only that it is difficult to predict. Hence it is important to bring a waterproof jacket and trousers. Good boots for a muddy terrain are essential. And it is also a good idea to bring a change of clothes since one then feels much better after a nice hike.

In addition to the regular Sunday walks there are two weekends away each year to some more distant places (e.g. Dingle). To finish the season the Club spends a few days in a far-away place like Scotland or Wales. There are also events organized by individual members. The best source of information about everything that is going on in UCCMC is the Club web page.

Czech version