the sperrins

The Sperrins are an inland island, a range of mountains, glens, rivers and loughs which declare their own natural independence. During winter afternoon they are hidden in clouds pierced through with shafts of light, and bathed in a sky of pale blue during the summer. Sunsets are points of gold which set the evenings on fire. There are roads too, where you can forget about getting somewhere and enjoy the process of going there instead. There are no detours, however, for even the smallest road has a place to run to and a reason for doing so. There is pleny to do - the wilderness is an adventure waiting to happen, rich in flora and fauna. Deer merge in to the woodland. Flowers shine like stars, small, bright, and infinitely attractive. Game-shooting is possible, and looking is always permissible, everywhere promoted, on foot and by car, or even from the back of a horse. You can pan for gold or ride the rapids, take a sauna or relax in the warmth of an indoor pool. Anglers can take catches that will soon become a part of the regional folklore, of which there is plenty.