Belleek Woods: the crown jewel of beautiful Ballina
A striking image of snow-covered Belleek Woods. Photograph: David Farrell Photography
From strollers to stragglers, walkers to runners, not forgetting footballers, athletes, Parkrun devotees, fishing, and environmental enthusiasts all collectively share the common aim of seeking wellness and fitness in the serene location of Belleek woodlands which straddle the world-renowned River Moy in Ballina.
Those of us fortunate enough to be able to spend some of our free time in the wide expanse of what locals fondly describe as, 'Belleek', cannot but be grateful to have such a priceless leisure amenity on our doorstep.
A casual stroll through its historic woodlands brings you back in time to an age long since gone but not forgotten. Its centuries-old tree-lined pathways, meandering and rolling hills, possess deep secrets of a world and way of life known only to those who have gone before us.
An era excellently portrayed by Ballina historian, Terry Reilly, in his book , which chronicles the town and hinterland in a comprehensive and meticulously researched tome.
The imposing cut-stone monument over the grave of Baronet Francis Arthur Knox-Gore, builder of Belleek Manor in 1831, is quite distinctive by its design and structure. A short distance away Sir Charles Knox-Gore is laid to rest and close by his dog, 'Phizzie'.
These and other physical relics of the past all serve to underline and remind us of the richness and diversity of a world long buried in the deep recesses of historical memory.
Should you take a ramble through its leafy trails just stop for a short while and sense the stillness and beauty that envelops your surroundings. The gentle sound of water as it ripples and races from brook to river validate this. In fact, moments like those may briefly insensate your everyday worries and cares without you being fully conscious of it. Fleeting moments of total bliss.
In recent years, Belleek Enhancement Committee, a voluntary organisation spearheaded by the late Cyril Collins, in conjunction with various government and semi-state agencies has been lauded for their combined and relentless efforts in maintaining and keeping the woods accessible to all.
Cyril was instrumental in re-introducing the red squirrel back to the woods some years ago. All forms of birdlife and wildlife exist in harmony amongst its natural habitat creating a treasure trove of beauty and nature for all of us to enjoy.
Belleek, for me, conjures up many happy childhood and teenage memories shared with close friends as we whiled away the hours wandering through its woodland climbing its trees and, dare I mention it, carving our initials on a tree bark. Not very politically correct these days! On return, we would play football on Ballina Town’s soccer pitch, a club for which I have a deep affinity forging many enduring and lifetime friendships.
Just like our generation, past generations, and those who will follow, I hope they will derive as much pleasure and enjoyment from this heavenly corner as we have done. One cannot forget the important role this oasis played in people’s well-being and recovery during the Covid-19 crisis.
Finally, as the sun sets and the curtain falls on a momentous year for the North Mayo town, I humbly believe that 'Belleek' and its environs are the crown jewels in Ballina’s 300-plus years' storyline.
Long may it continue to be that way.
