When does the pilgrimage begin?
The traditional Lough Derg Three Day pilgrimage commences on Friday 31st May 2024 and runs each day until 13th August (The final day for pilgrims departing is 15th August).
What does the three day pilgrimage cost?
The admission for the three day pilgrimage is €80.00. Concessions available for Students, Seniors & Groups. (Please note concessionary rates are not available for online bookings) Rates subject to change.
Payment can be taken by cash, cheque, credit and debit cards.
Are bookings required?
Bookings are not essential for the traditional Three Day Pilgrimage. However booking this year is strongly advised and places can be reserved online here.
Pilgrims can arrive at the Lakeshore Visitor Centre from 11.00am to 3pm, with boats running regularly to the Island.
What should I bring?
Pilgrims are advised to bring warm and waterproof clothing, rosary beads, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal toiletries and towel, change of clothing, and any prescribed medication. Please note mobile phones, laptops, iPods and MP3 players are not permitted for use during your pilgrimage.
*Gluten free bread and oatcakes are provided in the Pilgrim Dining Room; pilgrims are kindly requested not to bring their own products.
When does the fast begin and end?
Pilgrims begin their fast at midnight before arriving on the Island (water is permitted), and it ends on the third day at midnight. Pilgrims leave the Island at 10am on the third day. Often the greatest challenge is maintaining their fast back at home. One Lough Derg meal is permitted each day, which consists of dry toast and black tea/coffee. On the third day you should prepare a Lough Derg type meal for yourself. Soft drinks are also permitted on the third day.
*Gluten free bread and oatcakes are provided in the Pilgrim Dining Room; pilgrims are kindly requested not to bring their own products.
What does the pilgrimage involve?
The pilgrimage involves three days of fasting, walking barefoot, repeating ‘station prayers’, and maintaining a 24hour vigil. Please see Three Day Pilgrimage Section for more details.
I am diabetic; can I do the pilgrimage?
Pilgrims must be fit and able to walk and kneel unaided. Pilgrims must be able to fast and endure 24 hours without sleep. If in doubt, please consult your doctor before coming on to the Island.
I do not attend Church regularly; can I do the pilgrimage?
Pilgrims must be fit and able to walk and kneel unaided. Pilgrims must be able to fast and endure 24 hours without sleep. Lough Derg welcomes those from all religious practices and backgrounds and regular Church attendance is not a pre-requisite of completing the pilgrimage.
My son is fourteen; can he come to Lough Derg?
The pilgrimage is open to those aged fifteen and over. Young people aged less than fifteen may not possess the spiritual or mental maturity to endure the three-day pilgrimage.
Anyone under 18 years of age wishing to undertake the pilgrimage must have parental permission to do so. This is in accordance with Safeguarding Guidelines for the Diocese of Clogher. If you do not have written permission with you, you will be asked to complete a form to say that you have that permission. You will be asked to provide proof of age if a Lough Derg staff member requests it.
I am in Ireland on holidays during July, can I visit Lough Derg for a few hours?
Unfortunately during the traditional pilgrimage season, June, July & up to 15th August, other visitors are not permitted on the island out of courtesy and respect to those completing the three day pilgrimage. Visitors are most welcome to view our lake shore facilities, and watch the DVD playing in our visitor centre detailing the Lough Derg pilgrimage. Younger visitors may also like to view the statue of Patrick the Pilgrim and the boat which would have carried many of their pilgrim ancestors to the island.
What time do the boats go across to the island?
Pilgrims are asked to arrive anytime between 11.00am and 3:00pm with the last boat sailing at approx. 3:15pm
You can book your place on the Three Day Pilgrimage here.
Further information about planning your Three Day Pilgrimage here