Proposal:
To establish a walk - Slí Chrónáin Mochua (St Cronan Mochua’s Way). Starting at Timahoe (Tígh Mochua),Co. Kildare, passing through Rathcoffey, Balraheen, Taghadoe, Celbridge and finishing at Clondalkin. The trip extends through the ancient eastern Slí Mhór (1) from Timahoe to Celbridge, otherwise known as St Mochua’s Road. See Schedule below for details of locations and items of interest discovered so far.
(1) One of the ancient routes to Tara.
Benefits:
* Increase awareness of historical, archeological, cultural importance for local people and visitors.
* Increase the present range of activities for both visitors and local people.
* Attract extra visitors to each area, promoting the economic profile in local shop-keepers and accommodation providers.
* Increase co-operation and social links between various groups of people based along the route, e.g. between the local historians in each area; permit local children to have more material for school work; provide an opportunity for local people to have pride in their environments.
Why walk from Timahoe to Clondalkin?
Slí Chrónáin Mochua features many historical locations and items connected with St Chrónáin Mochua. It also highlights local attributes of historical and archaeological importance. At a more formal annual walk, members of local historical societies could be invited to address the visitors.
How long is the Slí?
Approximately 40 kms. Walkers could complete the entire journey over two days, staying in local hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation. Others could join for part of the walk if they wish.
Members of the Clondalkin History Society and St. Mochua Historical Society have already explored the Slí by car. This proposal is a more heart-healthy and ecologically sound way of enjoying the countryside and learning more about local history and culture.
Who would walk Slí Chronáin Mochua?
Almost any part of the Slí would be suitable for a wide age-range, from school children to older people. Those wishing to complete the entire Slí would advisedly be aged 18 and over.
Marketing and Advertising: Notifications in local and national newspaper (e.g. The Irish Times) would entice visitors to take part. Inclusion in Bord Failte’s itinerary of walks in Ireland and local town and county council websites is envisaged.
Cost to visitors:
Apart from personal outgoings (refreshments, accommodation) no outgoings are currently required.
Organisers:
Rally Round The Tower and Clondalkin History Society.