Since the Brexit referendum, the Irish border has again become a source of tension but on the ground it remains a fascinating wilderness of low mountains and fantastic hiking countryToday I´m hiking from Thur Mountain to the Cavan Burren along lanes and among prehistoric relics. This is north-west Ireland, not far from the sea but far enough for me to call it midlands. My route goes from Co Leitrim into Co Cavan, staying close to the border with Northern Ireland. For so long associated with violence and up against the appeal of the west coast, Ireland´s borderland has been ignored by travellers. Yet its history is fascinating and there are many beautiful stretches. Word is starting to get out, but this still feels like Ireland´s undiscovered region.I spent last night in a B&B in Glenfarne, a thinly spread community of farms and homes. Clancy´s (doubles from EUR89 B&B, walking packages available) appears to be the area´s heart, a string of businesses along the roadside, under one roof. It´s a B&B, a cafe, a shop and a post office. Continue reading...
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