Over €200,000 has been raised by local charities by hosting walks on the new Boyne Valley Camino.
Their walking fundraisers have been so successful that these organisations have now made them an annual event, the founders of the Camino have revealed.
Now the Boyne Valley Camino has been nominated for a Louth County Council Pride of Place Award for Community Tourism such is its success in attracting thousands of tourists every year.
The local Camino is a scenic 25km looped walking trail starting and ending in Drogheda at St Peter’s Church and promotes low impact sustainable tourism in the heart of the Boyne Valley.
Established in 2019 by passionate local volunteers it showcases the region’s natural beauty , rich heritage, and vibrant community.
It is accredited as an official Celtic Camino – linked to Santiago de Compostela – and also a designated National Trail since December 2024.
The route encourages walking as a healthy, eco-friendly way to explore historic sites like Mellifont Abbey and the Battle of the Boyne site at Oldbridge.
The Camino supports sustainable developments by boosting local economic growth through visitor spending at cafes, shops and accommodations while promoting cultural preservation with unique passport stamps designated by local artistes.
It also fosters community engagement through events benefiting local causes and advocates responsible tourism that preserves heritage and nature.
The founders say it has so far raised over €200,000 for local causes and they expect this figure to soar in the coming years.
They say in their submission for the award to Louth County Council that the Camino is being used for recreation, fitness, Gaisce school walks, group events and fundraisers.
It stated:” Bringing thousands of visitors to Drogheda, the Boyne Vallen Camino exemplifies how community tourism can enrich communities, protect heritage and tread lightly on the landscape, Buen Boyne Camino!”
