Eleven community organisations in Inishowen came together to delver the first Inishowen walking Festival, celebrating the history of Colmcille over the weekend of September 10 – 12. At the heart of the concept, when planning an Inishowen Walking Festival, it was acknowledged that there was a need to re-connect people following the pandemic. Artlink organised five walks around Dunree. Artist in residence Sarah Duffy conducted an Audible Art Wander leading walkers to a viewpoint over the land of Cill Ard where recently the West Inishowen History and Heritage Society engaged archaeological geophysics organisation, Earthsound, to undertake an electromagnetic survey. According to local
legend the site was a settlement, possibly monastic or Viking. This exploration has uncovered strong evidence for this. Sarah Duffy, with the cooperation of local artist and historian John McCarron, acquired the electromagnetic data and transformed it into a sound work to reveal something of the hidden history that lies below the soil. During this
short wander, walkers listened to this newly created soundwork for the first time, with the land and surrounding areas in view.
A family friendly nature walk was guided by Artlink member, historian and environmentalist Terry Tedstone who previously worked on site and established Fort Dunree Wildlife and Nature group. Terry has a wealth of experience and knowledge on wildlife and knows the site like the back of his hand. Ecotherapist Michaela McDaid was the guide for a mindful wander around the majestic site at Fort Dunree. Meeting in Amach Anseo Community Garden for tea first, the group then embarked on a gentle walk leading to a ‘sit pot’ for a sunset meditation around. After the guided communal meditation participants were invited to a solitary reflection.
Glór Inis Eoghain is a community group formed to promote the use of Irish in the Inishowen peninsula. Glór accompanied participants on a walk and talk as Gaeilge for all those interested in hearing and using Irish. Starting at Dunree Beach going on the hillside walk to Mamore gap road, then to the well of St Colmcille/St Eigne and
back via the Pinch Road.
Green Hill Hike
The most strenuous walk in Artlink’s programme was a 12 km hike led by walking expert Sharon Porter. This varied route included an old monastic site, turf cutting, windmills, a lough and the flora and fauna of the bogland, stopping on the summit of Aghaweel Hill
giving panoramic views of Lough Swilly and West Donegal.
Throughout the walk Sharon shared her extensive knowledge of local lore. The Inishowen Walking Festival is a co-funded project that has been supported through the Colmcille 1500 Grant Scheme (which is funded by the North West Development Fund and Creative Ireland, in conjunction with and supported by The Executive Office and The Irish Government) and Donegal Sports Partnership. DSP supports communities to increase and sustain levels of participation in sport and physical activity.
- September 12, 2021
