A large crowd gathered at An Chultúrlann, Árainn Mhór, on Friday 4th July for the official launch of the Árainn Mhór – Ailt an Chorráin Blueway promotional videos, a project celebrating the stunning land and sea routes linking the island with the mainland through walking, kayaking, swimming, and cultural exploration.
The event was attended by community members, local development groups, and representatives from community groups, tourism networks, coastal initiatives, and Infomar, Ireland’s national seabed mapping programme.
Guest of honour Noel Cunningham, former Donegal Person of the Year and Donegal Tourism Ambassador, officially launched the videos and unveiled a striking new monument by John Gillespie of An Cailleach Dhubh — the cormorant symbol of the Blueway, now a lasting focal point at the heart of the trail.
Árainn Mhór – Ailt an Chorráin Blueway monument
The promotional videos, created by Owen Clarke, were warmly received by those in attendance. They showcase the beauty of the Blueway, the surrounding landscape, and the community that brings it to life.
Watch the English version here (Irish version below):
The project received support from Údarás na Gaeltachta, as well as through the Walks Scheme funded by POBAL, which enabled the installation of the new monument. The community also acknowledged the previous contributions of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Comhar na nOileán, Fáilte Ireland, Donegal County Council the Rural Tourism Officer, Charlie Boyle CSEI – Customer Service Excellence Ireland and his staff. The community is proud to continue working with them as the Blueway grows and evolves.
Representatives from Infomar also took part in the event, outlining the valuable work they are undertaking to map and understand Ireland’s marine environment — work that supports safe navigation, conservation, tourism, and sustainable coastal planning.
Speaking at the event, Mr Cunningham praised the community’s vision and hospitality: “This Blueway is a shining example of what makes Donegal so special — people, place, passion, and pride. Árainn Mhór and Ailt an Chorráin are leading the way in sustainable, local tourism, and I’m so honoured to be part of it today.”
The Blueway Steering Group, volunteers, and local staff were thanked for their dedication and the behind-the-scenes work that made the project and the launch event possible. Thanks also went to members who provided refreshments and hospitality.
A vacancy for a Tourism Officer to support the next phase of the Blueway’s development was also announced during the event.
The Blueway continues to grow as a model of sustainable tourism, and the videos will now be used to promote Arainn Mhór and Burtonport as vibrant coastal destinations for outdoor recreation and cultural discovery.
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