Then one day when you least expect it, the Way finds you.
You never quite know what lies around each new bend. No matter how meticulously you plan, it’s often the unscripted moments you could never foresee that carry the most magic. The universe has a way of nudging us gently into a space we may not have known before. Waves roll into shore to soothe the feet of weary pilgrims who have walked this epic trail. The hallowed monastic ruins of the hillside remind us that we are not the first to pass this way. St Declan’s Way invites us somewhere far beyond what the eye can see. We sense we are not alone as if for the very first time.
3 weeks ago, we set out on St Declan’s Way with a group of pilgrims from Los Angeles. We started as strangers – the magic happened – and we parted all the better for the time we had spent together. 5 days walking an age-old pilgrim trail has the power to connect us to something deeper in ourselves and in all that is revealed along the way. Swallows swoop by in telepathic unison as if to mark the moment. Within days of their return home to California, messages arrived by email and google review, each crafted with precision and care, each trying to find the words to capture the uniqueness of our shared St Declan’s Way experience. I’ll leave it to our companions to tell the story…
I just returned from a pilgrimage along St. Declan’s Way organized by Celtic Ways Ireland. The scenery was gorgeous, the history was rich, and the opportunity to stay in a monastery was truly unique. What really made the experience memorable was Phil and Elaine’s leadership and special touches. It’s difficult to capture in words the level of care they provided for us and the magic they worked during the 7 days we were with them. They are such talented, generous, extraordinary people who care about engaging each pilgrim in the group. They immersed us in Irish culture through exposure to local people in the towns we walked through, they provided reflections and beautiful music along the paths, they encouraged deep conversation and also sparked so much happiness and laughter.
Our first blessing was the sunshine which enhanced the lush green paths, made the rivers sparkle, and showcased the magnificence of the panoramic views throughout our journey. As someone who relishes time in nature, I woke up all five mornings excited to experience each new leg of our journey. All five stages exceeded expectations with the rich history, legendary ruins, meandering rivers, expansive countryside, wild flowers and wild life, quaint villages, castles and jovial local people. The stage that brought a tear to my eye was the final one, specifically arriving on the beach in Ardmore. It was a stunning setting for the conclusion to our long journey. Dipping our toes into the chilly, clear waters of the Celtic Sea was so refreshing. Devouring delicious, toasted cheese sandwiches at the lovely seaside cafe was so satisfying. Then, the breath-taking views as we embarked on the Cliff Walk. These final four kilometres I walked solo. It allowed space to soak in the awesome natural beauty that surrounded me, and a few moments to reflect on the enormity of the journey just completed.
We stayed in the Mount Melleray Monastery with the most interesting monks as our hosts. Experiencing Ireland with local folks revealed what truly gifted story tellers the Irish people are, and also invited us to experience the culture first hand. In America, we would say that Phil and Elaine have “a secret sauce” – something very special that they bring to a group which makes everything work. Managing the logistics of 23 pilgrims of various ages and physical abilities, dietary preferences and interests was a feat by itself. The team at Celtic Ways Ireland were masterful at drawing out the best in each participant. What group doesn’t function better when each person feels valued? Phil and Elaine are also extraordinary musicians and generously shared their talent with our group. Music has a way of unifying, especially when enjoyed in a natural setting or in a sacred chapel.
We were blessed with spiritual reflections from Phil each day along with beautiful music, dance and the history of the places we visited and the trails we travelled. On most vacations in a foreign country, you hit the tourist highlights and skim the surface of the culture. On this trip, we were off the beaten path and immersed in the country among its wonderful people (and cows and sheep). The local guides added their unique perspective and enriched our understanding of the land and its people. It’s hard to accurately convey how meaningful this experience was. As a group of 23 pilgrims, we laughed, we walked, we sang, we prayed, we ate, we drank Guinness, we were awed by the beauty around us, we were silent, we made new friends, we walked some more and made memories to last a lifetime.
Our time with Celtic Ways Ireland was transformational. My husband and I had been to Ireland ten years prior as “tourists,” but this trip had a different expectation. We were to be “pilgrims” and it was our hope that we would experience Ireland in a new way. We were not disappointed. Phil and Elaine managed each day with care for our specific needs and with a personal touch. They were thoughtful and practical in their management of the group. They observed and monitored each member’s ability to manage the five days of walking and adapted the mode of travel when necessary. Along the way we were nourished with delicious healthy picnic lunches provided by local cafes. A most welcome service was their attention to dietary preferences each day, which took away an often difficult experience while travelling. The lunch items purchased from local eateries were outstanding as well as the dinners at the evenings.
Our stay at the Mount Melleray Abbey was very special. Brothers Seamus and Richard were so hospitable. It was such a privilege to attend Vespers and Evening prayers during our stay there. I’ll never forget being in a small candlelit chapel at the abbey, and hearing a well-known Irish tenor, Declan, as well as a Ukrainian refugee, Vera, accompanied by piano, flute, and guitar. Glorious! Special thanks to Elaine for our beautiful memory book and her incredible scones & fairy cakes! This has been an unforgettable experience shared with wonderful fellow pilgrims!
Phil and Elaine are the most inclusive people I’ve ever met – inclusive with the pilgrims and with every person we encountered along our journey. On our first night, they encouraged us all to remain “open” during our pilgrimage “because that’s when the magic happens.” Upon arrival at St. Declan’s Well (the end of our journey), we met a young, American couple who had just been married. Of course, Phil invited them to join us for dinner that evening. Our last night together over our Gala Dinner in ‘The Moorings’ Dungarvan, became the most joyous wedding reception – the young couple was given a blessing by Brother Seamus from the Mount Melleray Monastery, serenaded by an Irish tenor, toasted, celebrated and showered with song and love from our group. No one will ever forget that evening, especially the newlyweds. It was truly magical.
I always wanted to visit Ireland and finally the opportunity presented itself by joining this group of pilgrims from California to do St Declan’s Way. What a perfect way to get to know the land and its people. We had the tour expertly organized by Celtic Ways Ireland which went above and beyond my expectations in terms of the itinerary selected, the local guides provided, excellent food that was varied and catered to specific food requirements, good transportation; musical performances and most importantly the outstanding attention to detail when dealing with so many of us on the group. My experience is beyond words but all I can say is that I fell in love with Ireland, left a part of me there and brought so much of there with me that is part of a more wholesome me…
When you’ve the right companion on the journey, the way does not feel so long! We all need words of encouragement from time to time. No matter how strong or how assured we may be, there will be moments in life when everything does not flow as favourably as we would like. Read the signs and be ready to adapt. It’s amazing the power of a kind word. It can lift you up and help you to appreciate what matters most. We’ve been privileged to share the path with really sound people. They lead us in ways they do not even realise. They have gently nudged us closer to where we need to be.
Special thanks to our visitors from Los Angeles for their beautiful contribution to this month’s blog.
Celtic Ways Ireland are proud to be rolling out our St Declan’s Way Experience over the coming months and from April 2025. We have limited availability from June 2nd, September 8th and September 22nd 2024. For more information, email Phil and Elaine directly on info@celticwaysireland.com or check out our website www.celticwaysireland.com