A cracking walk around three resevoirs to a high point with great views over a wide area. Start at
D (J377 894) in carpark favoured by anglers. A couple of minutes brings the grass rampart of the first of three resevoirs - a peaceful scene with all ages comfortably fishing and BBQ smoke drifting lazily. Views already reach to Belfast Lough, the towers of Ballylumford power station and over to the Scottish coast.
Track around the S end of the resevoir through mature pine trees to the next grass rampart and follow service road to yet another rampart of the third resevoir. The resevoirs sit at progressively higher levels and thier high dams are visible ahead, wonder building at what lies beyond each time. Fittingly they get more impressive in scale and setting with each rise. Again follow the S side of the resevoir on open ground, then pine and beech trees. A little stream drops down just before the head of the resevoir - follow this uphill through forest and then rough grass to join a forest track - follow this to the right, take next right turn, then left which brings a road at
A (J352 887).
From here follow the directions given by Harry Goodman. I had some trepidation at being on others property. Thi swas misplaced as i think i met the same lady - who was helping to "dose cows" and had a particulary handy looking length of blue water pipe in her hand. She graciously directed me towards the top through two gates, past the mast and on the site of an old cairn. The views are really impressive - particulary across the line of the Belfast Hills to the Mournes, contrasting with the modernity of docks, cranes and high rise buildings. Reached in 3.5 miles and 1hour 20 minutes. Took my time to savour the views (along with my tea and lunch), thanking those about on the return.
Returned along the paths on the northern side of the resevoirs to complete a circuit of all three, passing other walkers, runners, cyclists, anglers and horse riders. The weather had cleared and the waters were reflecting bright sunshine and it was just a good place to be. In all 7 miles and 2.5 hours - not at all taxing, more relaxing.
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