• Ireland’s Pilgrim Paths

Ireland’s Pilgrim Paths

'Many people find it easier to walk than talk their faith, and derive encouragement through treading in the footsteps of countless pilgrims before them.'
Revd Dr Ian Bradley, theologian

Each of Ireland's pilgrim paths is an ancient Tóchar (‘camino' or causeway) into the world of Celtic spirituality. In this walking pace travelogue, set against the backdrop of spectacular scenery in every corner of Ireland, Darach MacDonald, a modern-day pilgrim, recounts his trials and tribulations following in the footsteps of the ancients along prescribed paths, ranging from hikes of a few hours’ duration to day-long treks and the three-day ordeal in St Patrick’s Purgatory.

This is an exploration of the magical soul of Celtic Christianity, written from the perspective of a struggling, ‘á la carte’ Irish Catholic, ‘who could best be described as a healthy sceptic in matters of belief’. The result is a narrative that is at times uplifting and at times uncomfortable, but which is always engaging and honest. While there are pilgrimage prayers along the Tóchar, as well as historical background on the places once revered throughout Christendom, there are also pints in pleasant pubs, a rich diversity of literary references, anecdotes and personal reflections on faith, morality and religious practice, which are offered in a spontaneous and unselfconscious spirit.

Pilgrim Paths Included

  • Cosán na Naomh (County Kerry)
  • Gleann Cholm Cille (County Donegal)
  • Gougane Barra (County Cork)
  • Lough Derg (County Donegal)
  • Knock (County Mayo)
  • Slemish (County Antrim)
  • St Brigid's Shrine (County Louth)
  • St Declan's Way (County Waterford)
  • St Kevin's Way (County Wicklow)
  • Tóchar Phádraig (County Mayo)
  • Slí Mhór (County Offaly)
Book Details
Title Ireland's Pilgrim Paths
Subtitle Walking the Ancient Trails
Author Darach MacDonald
Publisher New Island
Edition First published as 'Tóchar: Walking Ireland's Ancient Pilgrim Paths' in 2013
Release Date 2020
Cover Paperback
Printed Pages 298 Pages
Size 21.5cm x 13.5cm x 2,5cm
Postal Weight 350g

Ireland’s Pilgrim Paths

  • Company: New Island Books
  • Product Code: NEW IRE PILG PATH
  • Availability: In Stock
  • €14.95

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