Get ready for a bit of mindful trekking as the Kerry Camino celebrates annual festival

THE organisers of ‘ Kerry Camino’ say their weekend of walking – taking place this weekend from April 27 to 30 – is reviving the county’s links with pilgrims of the past.

Following in the footsteps taken by Saint Brendan as he traversed the Dingle Way, walkers will pass through rugged terrain and soak in coastal coastal scenery as they make their way from Saint John’s Church in Tralee to the Spanish-built Saint James’ Church in Dingle over the course of three epic days.

“It borrows elements from the famous Camino de Santiago in Spain in that we’ll use logbooks and passports during the journey,” Kerry Camino Secretary Adrienne McLoughlin told The Kerryman.

“It doesn’t just encourage walking tourism, it revives Kerry’s links with the pilgrims. she explained.

Adrienne added that the walk is open to all, whether you see it as a pilgrimage of personal faith or renewal, or a chance to have fun and reap the benefits of a good walk.

Numbers have increased steadily since the first walk in 2012, and registration will take place at The Grand Hotel in Tralee from 7pm to 9pm, on April 27 at which the walkers will receive their log book and information on stamping stations and route notes.

“A certain level of fitness is required for this three-day event, and you’ll need appropriate footwear, clothing, snacks and drinks. Each day’s walking is approximately six to seven hours, while transport and luggage transfer is arranged if required by participants,” Adrienne said.

“We are very grateful to volunteer members of Tralee Mountaineering Club and other local walking enthusiasts who have assisted us in a guiding capacity for our walk weekends since 2012.

“If you need any further information on the breakdown of the route, treats available on the journey, or any other arrangements, you can email us at info@kerrycamino.com.

“Alternatively, you can visit our website www. kerrycamino.com, or drop us a line at the Kerry Camino Facebook page, /www.facebook.com/ KerryCamino.”

Kerry Camino Chairperson Mike O’Donnell addressing the walkers at the outset of last year’s walking festival - which took pilgrims out of Tralee and along the glorious flanks of Sliabh Mis.