Ireland West Camino
The Tóchar Phádraig – Rathcroghan to Croagh Patrick
Ballintubber Abbey is proud to be part of the newly revitalised Ireland West Camino, an ancient Irish Camino following the
Tóchar Phádraig from
Rathcroghan to Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain.
This sacred pilgrim route traces over
3,500 years of spiritual and cultural heritage, guiding modern walkers along the path once travelled by kings, saints, and pilgrims — including
St Patrick.
An Ancient Way Reawakened
Known in pre-Christian times as
Slí Assail, and later as the
Tóchar Phádraig, this historic route once linked Ireland’s most important ceremonial and royal centres. Today, the
Ireland West Camino stretches from
Downpatrick through
Drogheda,
Rathcroghan, and westward to
Croagh Patrick.
The
Rathcroghan to Croagh Patrick section forms the spiritual heart of the route.
Ballintubber Abbey on the Camino
Founded in 1216,
Ballintubber Abbey has welcomed pilgrims for over 800 years. In the late 20th century, the restored
Tóchar Phádraig was extended to begin at the Abbey, re-establishing Ballintubber as a key starting point for pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick.
From here, pilgrims continue through
Aghagower,
Boheh, and
Murrisk before the final ascent of the Reek.
Ireland’s Camino Experience
The
Ireland West Camino offers a uniquely Irish pilgrimage experience — combining ancient landscapes, living faith, and deep heritage. Walkers encounter abbeys, holy wells, royal roads, and breathtaking scenery across Connacht and beyond.
Often described as
Ireland’s answer to the Camino de Santiago, it offers a quieter, more reflective alternative rooted in Ireland’s own sacred story.
Walk the Way
Whether you walk for faith, heritage, or personal reflection, the
Tóchar Phádraig invites you to experience Ireland’s spiritual heart.
Ballintubber Abbey warmly welcomes pilgrims, walkers, and seekers on the Ireland West Camino.
