Take a dander over the stony grey soil of Monaghan next week on a two-day walking festival organised by the local U3A (University of the 3rd Age) group, a global organisation for the mostly over 55s. The festival has walks for all levels this Thursday and Friday. Routes include Monaghan Greenway, Castle Leslie estate, Crocknagrally forest, and Monaghan town. There is a festival dinner on Thursday evening, with guest Mount Everest climber Jason Black. Registration is at The Four Seasons hotel from 9.30am to 10.30am on Thursday, €15 for one day, €25 for two, covering bus transfers, tea and coffee, and lunch in Slieve Beagh. See picturesofireland.ie/U3A.htm
Walking festival with a difference
