Cuilcagh Camino returns this August

Róisín McManus

People are being invited to take part in the second annual Cuilcagh Camino, which will take place on Saturday, August 8.

Organised by the Cuilcagh Ramblers with the help of local volunteers, participants will travel along the stunning foothills of Cuilcagh landscape as they cross the border into parts of Co Fermanagh before returning to the departure point at St Mary’s Hall in Swanlinbar.

Last year’s guided walk, which raised €5,000 for Kinawley/Killesher SVP, saw participants climb to the mountain’s summit on two separate route lengths.

This year’s walk will be self-guided across three different route lengths in aid of Kinawley/Killesher SVP, Corlough Community First Responders and Catherine’s Journey, which raises money for support for a little girl from Enniskillen who is living with a rare genetic disorder called CDKL5.

“This year, we decided to do it differently,” says Philip McGoldrick, Treasurer of Cuilcagh Ramblers.

“We had limited numbers last year because we were leading it but this year we can let it out a bit further, we’re hoping for bigger numbers.”

Registration is open from 7am until 8am for the long route (30km), from 8am until 8.30am for the medium route (25km) and from 8.30am until 9am for the short route (16km). Participants, who must be over 18 years of age, will receive a Cuilcagh Camino t-shirt and map to guide them along the way, and you can also proceed with a longer route on the day if you feel like it.

Crossing primarily tracks and trails, the first stop will be at the majestic Tullydermot Falls before traversing part of the Cuilcagh Lowlands Trail into Co Fermanagh along part of the Cuilcagh Way, where there will be guided visits to some recently discovered or reinterpreted archaeological sites with local heritage campaigner Barney Devine.

The route will continue around Gortalughany View Point, one of the most breathtaking views within the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, and back into Co Cavan by what used to be the Hawkswood Trail in Swanlinbar.

Proper hiking boots, rain gear and water are compulsory, and spare layers, snacks and sweets are strongly advisable. Refreshments and toilet stations will be provided at appropriate intervals.

At the end of their route, participants can rest their feet and enjoy a hot meal in St Mary’s Hall, which is also included in the price of the ticket.

Follow the ‘Cuilcagh Ramblers’ Facebook page for more information. Tickets for the 2026 Cuilcagh Camino cost €60 (excluding booking fee) and are available on https://eventmaster.ie/event/q0wzcP7SQq.