Rathescar Lake outing with my local photoclub 2025

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Co. Louth, Rathescar Lakeside Walk is a stunning nature preserve that beckons tourists with its serene landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. This scenic area features well-maintained walking paths that wind around the sparkling lakes, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, invigorating jogs, or a peaceful afternoon picnic. The gentle sounds of nature, coupled with the vibrant flora and fauna, create a captivating backdrop for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each season offers a different charm, from vibrant wildflowers in spring to the rich hues of autumn leaves, ensuring that no visit is ever quite the same. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with various species residing in the habitat. As you walk, be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife that thrives in this natural setting. Families will appreciate the safe and welcoming environment, making it a great outing for children to explore and enjoy the outdoors. With no entry fee, Rathescar Lakeside Walk provides an affordable and enriching experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature without breaking the bank. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a perfect spot for photography, Rathescar Lakeside Walk is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural beauty of Ireland. (according to evendo.com)

Every single word is true of what was said. The place is a real sanctuary for wildlife, occasionally surprising everyone with something. You'll find swans, ducks, moorhens, bugs and butterflies and plants for every season. It's the closest walk to my home so we often go out there for a walk.

The group also got 3 photo challenges and these are mine... Photo of a Swan or Duck, macro, and part of the lake....

Silent Valley Reservoir, an outing with my local photoclub 2025

Today we visited a place called the Silent Valley in the Northern Ireland. The Silent Valley Reservoir is a reservoir located in the Mourne Mountains near Kilkeel, County Down in Northern Ireland. It supplies most of the water for County Down, surrounding counties and most of Belfast. It is owned and maintained by Northern Ireland Water Limited (formerly DRD Water Service).

The road to there was smooth, sharp turns and loads of serpentine revealing breath taking landscapes. We were blessed with a gorgeous weather and the breeze was a bonus. When we arrived there was a race for the  Athletic Club's, but that didn't put a damper on our outing because we managed to stay out of their way. (Silent Valley wasn't silent anymore, well for a bit anyway). Full of ideas of where to go, what to shoot, camera settings, the group broke up in smaller groups (lads and lassies) and off we went to find subjects to shoot. Plenty to choose from. Banter and funny remarks are always a bonus, making our adventure more pleasurable. Cams were clicking, drones was flying, pics were taken as we were walking around the this huge Dam surrounded by mountains tainted by the blooming Heather, giving the whole place a magical hue of magenta. By the time we walked our feet off, on our way back finally after all of us were almost death by hunger we've managed to find a picnic table and wolf down our sammiches that brought us back to life and gave us enough energy to take a few more pics and drive home. From the tens and thousands of pictures I took these are just a few. 

This is the reservoir in its all majesty, comfortably nestled between the mountains. 

And these are my attempts to show some of the unique features of the place and surroundings. 

And here someone must have been thinking that I'm getting ready to take a dip in the lake to cool down, which I wasn't. I was merely trying to shoot a Common Scarlet Dragonfly, before I was rudely interrupted "Hurry up, I'm hungry" sheeeeeesh 😂😂😂😂😂😜😁 some just don't understand, when one is in the creative zone, one should not be disturbed 😂🤣😂🤣😂. 

Of course these are only friendly banters, no bad intention in what has been said. Craic was good as usual. 😜😂 Box of frogs 🐸😂😁😜