On Saturday the 6th July, the Sligo Camino is back for its 6th annual trek of 36km from Dromahair, Co. Leitrim to Coolaney, Co. Sligo. The Camino follows the Sligo Way through some of the best scenery in the West of Ireland. The route is a challenging mixture of tracks, trails and forest paths, finishing with 8km of country lanes around the Annaghmore Estate.
The walk starts in the quaint village of Dromahair Co. Leitrim. From here you will follow the Sligo Way route to the Beautiful Slishwoods with its tremendous views of Lough Gill. Along its shores 
stands the magnificent Church Island and Innisfree made famous by W.B Yeats. Continuing to follow the Sligo Way you will begin to make your way to Collooney through Union Woods where the stunning Union rock sits. On your way from Collooney on the last stage of the route towards Coolaney the Scenery along the banks of the Owenmore, and Ballysadare river are breath taking you may catch a glimpse of a salmon breaching the water bed.
Be warned the Sligo Camino is a physically challenging course with multitudes of terrain to overcome. It is not for the faint hearted as it can take 6 to 8 hours to complete. The walk is a self-led trail with timber posts marked in yellow to help guide the walker’s way. There will be walk leaders scattered among the walkers should you require assistance. Should you need to stop or get injured there will be a sweep up vehicle in operation to collect those who may feel unable to continue and return them to Coolaney. First Aiders will be on duty during the walk to deal with any minor accidents and incidents.
Your registration fee of €40 includes bus transfers, light refreshments en route, dinner on return to Coolaney and a Sligo Camino t-shirt for every walker.
Want to know the essentials for a walk such as this? Recommended by the organisers is firstly footwear make sure it is well-worn in trainers or walking shoes as they are lighter paired with tight fitting socks to avoid blisters. Vaseline on your feet and sensitive areas such as the legs which can avoid chafing. Sun cream is a must you will be out in very exposed areas sun cream is essential to your back pack. Deep Heat or neurophen gel used on the morning of the walk may prevent swelling. Lastly walkers should bring their own packed lunch and drink to consume on the trek. There are two stops for drinks and light refreshments along the route in Slishwood and Union Wood but having your own fluids and food is a must.
The Sligo Camino is organised to raise funds for community projects in Coolaney Among those projects is Café Fia, a community café which services the village and its visitors. So, with all of this in mind indulge in your adventurous side. Take the leap on the 6th of July and enjoy some the most scenic views the west of Ireland has to offer.
