THE rich history of Ballybofey and Stranorlar was celebrated on Monday evening with the official launch of the new Twin Towns Heritage Trail, marking the completion of an exciting community project that brings together local heritage and tourism.
Eunan Quinn, manager of Base Enterprise Centre, speaking at the launch of the Heritage Trail for the Twin Towns. Photos: Gerard McHugh Photography.
Hosted at The Pound, Stranorlar, the launch was attended by local residents, community groups, project partners and invited guests, who gathered to celebrate the unveiling of the new 4.8km self-guided walking trail featuring 20 heritage sites across the Twin Towns.
Cllr Patrick McGowan at Monday evening’s launch event.
Developed by BASICC and Ballybofey & Stranorlar Tidy Towns supported by Donegal County Council, and local businesses including Jackson’s Hotel, Villa Rose Hotel, SuperValu and Go Visit Donegal, the project showcases the rich history, culture and architecture of Ballybofey and Stranorlar while encouraging people to explore the area on foot.
Celine McGlynn, Dr Dubhán Ó Longáin and Genevieve Galarneau.
The free self-guided walking trail can be accessed using a smartphone by scanning QR codes located at each heritage site. Visitors can also pick up printed trail leaflets from participating local businesses or explore the trail online at www.heritagetrailtwintowns.ie, where each stop is brought to life with historical information, archive photographs and local stories.
Colin Mills, Deirdre Irwin, Pat Holland, George Irwin and Shaun McNulty at the launch of the new Heritage Trail.
Speaking at the launch, Clr Patrick McGowan, Cathaoirleach of the Lifford–Stranorlar Municipal District, said:
“The Heritage Trail is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through partnership and community collaboration.
“It celebrates the stories that have shaped the Twin Towns while creating a lasting resource for residents, schools and visitors. We hope people of all ages will enjoy discovering the heritage on their own doorstep.”
Cathy Taaffe addresses the launch of the new Heritage Trail.
Guests had the opportunity to explore the trail, learn more about the historical research behind the project and experience the new digital resources before enjoying refreshments at The Base.
At Monday evening’s launch are Joe Crawford, Linda and Robin Henderson.
The trail features 20 significant heritage locations, including Drumboe Castle, The Pound, Isaac Butt’s Grave and many other landmarks that tell the story of the Twin Towns’ development over the centuries.
Brendan Dunleavey, Declan Collum and Garda Brenda Healy.
BASICC and Ballybofey & Stranorlar Tidy Towns thanked everyone who contributed to the project, including project partners, local businesses, volunteers, researchers and the wider community whose support helped make the Heritage Trail a reality.
Some of those who attended Monday evening’s launch celebrations.