Horn Head lies to the west of Dunfanaghy rising from the low coastal Holocene dunes to the spectacular cliffs of the Head itself. The cliffs themselves rise some 600 feet from the sea with extraordinary indents, cliffs and coves.
In order to show people the varied beauty of the Head a 10k walk has been created starting via the McSwynes Gun Loop (which can be walked in its own right) and extending via the spectacular Tramore Beach up onto the head itself. From here you are greeted with fantastic views into the various coves and across to the cliffs.
Many people visit the high point on Horn Head by car and climb to the lookout (the highest point on the Head). They miss the awesome beauty of the cliffs themselves which require a little more effort.
This short walk over the 3 caches gives the opportunity to sample some of the highlights of the cliffs – however the cliffs are not fenced and there are no warning signs. Care should be exercised at all times near the edge especially in windy conditions.
The walk is linear unless you chose to continue on round the head to the beaches (sorry but you do have to come back to collect your car!) and is about 2.5k there and back. Total time for the walk, finding the caches and photos would be about 1.5 hours. However you are on open moorland with changeable weather conditions and should come prepared with suitable clothing and footwear.
The walk starts at the CP (waypointed) at the end of the road – you may chose to warm up by visiting “Horn Head Hide” (GC186M7) which is close by………..
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If you undertake the full walk the caches you will reach are
- Horn Head Hide - GC186M7
- Horn Head - Viewpoint - GC3K6Z5
- Horn Head - The Lookout - GC3K6Z6
- Horn Head - Tip of the Horn - GC3K6Z7 (this cache)
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THE CACHE
The approach is along a narrow (but safe) spit out to the tip. Keep to the centre path and avoid the one along the left hand edge. On arrival you will be on a large flat area with a stile - cross and head up the path to GZ which is a safe distance (about 15m) short of the "viewing area"
If you head up to the "viewing area" there are stunning 360 degree views but be aware that there are vertical drops on 3 sides - do NOT approach in high or even moderate winds - if you do it is entirely at your own risk.
Take your time and admire the views across to Tory Island, along the coast and back across horn Head.
The cache itself is a small camo container (about the size of 6/8 35mm containers and is positioned to avoid any need to cause a geotrail.
Happy Hunting and enjoy the walk.