The Ireland East-West Camino is a long-distance pilgrimage route that spans approximately 540 kilometres, stretching from Downpatrick, Co Down, near the vibrant city of Armagh on the eastern coast, to Irelands Holy Mountain, Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo - via the picturesque villages of Ballintubber and Knock in County Mayo, on the western shores of Ireland. Following a mix of ancient trails and modern paths, the route passes through stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and scenic countryside, including rolling hills, coastal views, and quiet woodlands. This Camino offers a unique opportunity for pilgrims, walkers, hikers and adventure seekers to experience both the spiritual and natural beauty of Ireland while connecting with its rich cultural heritage. People are drawn to this journey for its reflective atmosphere, physical challenge, and the chance to discover Ireland’s hidden gems, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a meaningful adventure.
Ireland’s East–West Camino is a newly launched, 540 km pilgrim route connecting Downpatrick (Co. Down) — St Patrick’s burial place — with Croagh Patrick (Co. Mayo), Ireland’s holy mountain.
- It passes through 10 counties, following both historic and spiritual routes like the Tóchar Phádraig, The Way of the Sun (Slighe Assail), and Ireland West Camino.
- The initiative, led by Mary B. Prendergast, Sr. Maureen Lally, John Cannon, and geospatial ecologist Jeremy Schewe, aims to:
- Promote cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Provide a fresh and cool weather alternative to the various Caminos de Santiago.
- Boost rural tourism and local economies.
- Support small communities and local businesses along the route.
A major multi-county launch was held in September 2025 at the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Co. Roscommon. The Camino has already attracted global attention — with over 34,500 map downloads across Ireland, the UK, the US, Canada and Europe. The route’s final stretch brings pilgrims westward through Mayo, via Ballintubber Abbey, with Knock as a key waypoint en route to Croagh Patrick. This presents a significant tourism opportunity for Knock and Knock House Hotel as a welcoming rest point for walkers and pilgrims and we look forward to welcoming Pilgrims, Walkers, Hikers and adventure seekers to Knock House Hotel.