“Go for It”: Liz’s Fourth Camino for IHF — and Why She Keeps Coming Back
Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) is looking for modern-day pilgrims to take on a Camino challenge this September to help support their vital work in end-of-life and bereavement care. Supporters will be walking along the breathtaking Portuguese Coastal Camino, a truly unforgettable walking route filled with stunning scenery and picturesque historic towns. This meaningful journey offers an incredible opportunity to challenge participants, connect with others, and help support people and families across Ireland when they need it most.
If you have always wanted to walk the Camino, now is the time to take your first steps on a trip that matters. If you have completed the well-trodden routes of the Camino, this is your chance to walk along the Portuguese coast, with the company of like-minded participants to raise vital funds.
“Go for it. You won’t regret it!”
“There were a few things that inspired me to take on my very first Irish Hospice Foundation Camino in 2023 — I wanted to support a worthy cause, people face so many challenges, and I felt I wanted to give something back. Also, for me it was a personal challenge, I always dreamed about doing the Camino and what a great cause to do it for. I love setting out goals and it gives me a great since of achievement when I reach it. This year will be my fourth IHF Camino. I love meeting some people that have come back year on year and also new people with different life stories. I love the camaraderie of the trip, and I like the way IHF organise it, so you’re just focused on enjoying the experience and focusing on walking – that’s what keep bringing me back. Knowing that you are helping to raise funds for IHF makes it more meaningful”.
As Liz Griffin prepares to take on her fourth IHF Camino Challenge this September, she has just one message for anyone thinking about joining: “Go for it. You won’t regret it. You don’t have to be an experienced walker, just come with an open mind and be willing to challenge yourself. You’ll meet amazing people, make incredible memories and be part of something that genuinely makes a difference”.
The Journey
Setting off from the coastal town of Oia in Portugal on 30 September, walkers will spend five days and 106km making their way north to Santiago de Compostela, arriving on 7 October 2026.
Along the way, the route hugs rugged coastal paths, cuts through quiet forests, and passes through charming villages and towns steeped in history. Keep an eye out for Romanesque chapels, ancient stone crosses, and other traces of the pilgrims who’ve walked this same path for centuries. As you cross into Galicia, you’ll experience the region’s distinct culture and traditions before finally reaching the ancient city of Santiago de Compostela — a fitting end to an extraordinary week.
Whether you come alone or bring friends and family along, you won’t be walking it solo. The camaraderie among participants is one of the things people talk about most, from the first steps in Oia to the final stretch into Santiago.
And the logistics? IHF have got those covered. IHF and our tour organisers handle your flights, accommodation, meals and luggage, backed by experienced guides throughout — so all you need to think about is putting one foot in front of the other.
Caroline O’Connell, Director of Fundraising at IHF, says:
“We are excited to be launching our eight Camino walk this September, taking on the Portuguese Coastal route and following in the footsteps of walkers over the centuries. This is your chance to make every step matter for families facing their final times together and for those coming to terms with the loss of a loved one.”
Ready to take on the challenge?
Every step you take helps fund IHF’s work supporting people and families across Ireland facing dying, death and bereavement. It’s a personal challenge with real impact — and one you’ll remember long after you’ve crossed the finish line!
