Mac Walsh, Cllr Ciaran Brogan and Shane McBrearty take part in the walk.

UP to 180 walkers took part in a special one-day Slí Cholmcille guided trail on Saturday, taking them between Cresslough and Gartan via Glenveagh National Park, along a section of the Slí Cholmcille trail route.

The event drew interest from walkers across Ireland with many travelling from Dublin, Tipperary and Belfast, as well as a strong representation from across the north west and local areas.

Registration took place at St Michael’s Church under heavy clouds and showers, but once the group set off, the weather cooperated and it remained dry and pleasant for the rest of the walk.

A group of local volunteers were on hand to help with registration and to safely escort the large, enthusiastic group safely out of the village and along the route that was a mix of quiet country lanes, bog roads and national park track and small amounts along the main road.

The route took in some stunning, unspoilt, Donegal scenery and the sight of almost 200 walkers marching together against the backdrop of ancient boglands and hills was a step into history.

Once they arrived in Glenveagh National Park the group enjoyed a welcome break for lunch and a chance to meet other walkers on the trail.

Once rested and refuelled they headed off over the scenic Lough Inshagh Walk to the birthplace of St Colmcille on what was two days before his feast day.

From there the large group was bused back to Creeslough to conclude a highlight successful event.

Sli Cholmcille say they would like to thank all the walkers and volunteers who supported their event, including the Creeslough Community Association, Creeslough Town Team, the volunteer guides and administrators, the staff and management of Glenveagh National Park, Fr John Joe Duffy, Lorcan Roarty of Wild Atlantic Camp, the Civil Defense and Raphoe Diocese who sponsored the Jubilee “Pilgrims of Hope” candles for each walker. They also thanked Donegal Local Development Company and Donegal County Council for their ongoing support.

A spokesperson said “Sincere thanks to everyone who helped make this one-day Slí a safe, enjoyable day.

“ Lots of happy memories were made and it showcased the amazing walks we have in Donegal and along the Slí Cholmcille route.

“Thanks to all the walkers who took part, all 180 of them, for supporting the event and the Slí Cholmcille project to create a series of such walks across Donegal into Derry and on to Iona. It really is a step into history and we hope you can join us again in the future.”

Some of the support team who helped out at the Slí Cholmcille walk.