THE Lee Valley walking programme for March is packed with hill walks, casual walks and a three-day programme over St Patrick's weekend.

On Sunday, March 5, walkers will take to the hills at Musheramore, north of Macroom.

The views at the top are a remarkable reward for the effort you have to make to get there. Approximately four hours, all off road, with gentle climbing on track and heather to begin, the walk takes in part of the Duhallow Way.

On Sunday, March 12, there is a more casual walk at Glendav, Carriganima, on the lower slopes of Mullaghanish.

This walk is approximately four miles, through forest tracks and road.

The highlight of the month is the Inchigeelagh Hills Walking Weekend on St Patrick's weekend. The programme is based at Creedons, Inchigeelagh. There will be three walks over the three days.

On St Patrick's Day, walkers will do the Horseshoe at Gougane Barra This one is for those with some experience of hill-walking - there is a steep climb to begin, a ridge walk and a final descent through woods. It is a particularly picturesque walk with fabulous views of Gougane Barra, Bantry Bay, the Lee Valley and the Kerry mountains.

On Saturday, March 18, there is a ridge walk from Coomataggart to Meelin, north of Ballingeary. On Sunday, March 19, a more relaxed walk finishes off the weekend. This is called Discovering Inchigeelagh, and consists of a guided walk to the very interesting old churchyard and Carriganacurra Castle on track and road.

Walks cost £10 per person and group rates are available for eight or more people. Booking is essential for all walks as group sizes are limited. Light refreshments are provided before and after the walks.

Walkers should bring raingear and a packed lunch. Boots are essential for all off-road walks.

For a copy of the March walking programme and further informa-tion, ring Catherine Ketch at 026-45642 or email catherineketch@eir-com.net.