The Great Famine, also known as the Irish Potato Famine, occurred in the mid-19th century and brought about immense suffering and loss of life due to potato crop failures. Connemara, with its rugged terrain and reliance on potato cultivation, was hit hard by this catastrophic event. The Famine Walk provides an opportunity to learn about this history and honour the lives affected by retracing the footsteps of those who walked the very same path seeking relief.
The walk begins in Doolough Valley, near Delphi, and spans approximately 167 kilometres. The route takes hikers through a hauntingly beautiful landscape of mountains, lakes, and valleys. As you follow the trail, it’s impossible not to feel a deep connection to the land and the history it holds.
One of the most significant stops along the Famine Walk is the site of the Doolough Tragedy. In 1849, during the height of the famine, hundreds of starving people walked to the local workhouse in search of assistance.
Tragically, they were turned away empty-handed, leading many to perish from exposure and exhaustion. This heart-wrenching event serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of famine and the failures of those in power to provide aid.
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