Glen Hansard, renowned for his Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly” from Once, embarked on a profound journey that intertwined music, tradition, and spirituality. In 2014, Hansard joined a group of Irish men to row a traditional naomhóg (currach) from Ireland to Santiago de Compostela, retracing the ancient Celtic route to the Camino de Santiago. This odyssey, captured in the documentary The Camino Voyage, spanned three years and culminated in a powerful arrival in Galicia.
The Voyage: A Modern Pilgrimage
The expedition was not merely a physical journey but a spiritual and artistic pilgrimage. Hansard, alongside poet Danny Sheehy, artist Liam Holden, and musician Brendan Begley, rowed for a month each summer, covering approximately 2,500 miles. Their mission was to honor their ancestors and connect with the sea, land, and communities along the way. As Hansard remarked, “You just need to have will. We’ve seen you do gigs and you have will. If you can play a gig for three hours then you can row for six”.
Music as a Spiritual Companion
Throughout the journey, music was a constant companion. Hansard’s song “Leave A Light” became emblematic of the voyage’s spirit. Performed in the Galician village of Muñalén, the song resonated deeply with the crew and locals alike. The act of singing in such a setting highlighted the role of music in bridging cultures and histories.
Reflections on the Camino
The experience led Hansard to reflect on the nature of pilgrimage and spirituality. He noted, “We are drawn to the monastic life without necessarily following the teachings of the church. Getting the opportunities to sleep in churches, living a very simple life, is very attractive“. This sentiment underscores the universal appeal of the Camino, transcending religious boundaries.
An Incomplete Voyage
Although Glen Hansard joined The Camino Voyage with the dream of rowing a traditional currach from Ireland to Santiago de Compostela, he didn’t complete the full journey. The expedition was split into three annual legs, and Hansard participated only in the final stretch along the northern coast of Spain.
Legacy and Impact
The journey’s significance was further underscored by the tragic loss of Danny Sheehy, who passed away in 2017. The documentary serves as both a tribute to Sheehy and a testament to the enduring power of the Camino’s spirit. As director Dónal Ó Céilleachair observed, the arrival in Santiago was “one of the most powerful moments in my entire life“.
Hansard’s involvement in the Camino de Santiago journey exemplifies the profound connections between music, tradition, and personal transformation. His reflections and the shared experiences of the crew continue to inspire those who seek meaning and connection through the Camino.
For a deeper understanding of this journey, you can watch the documentary The Camino Voyage on Amazon Prime Video.
A Night to Remember in Santiago
In June 2024, Hansard performed a one-off concert in Galicia at the iconic Sala Capitol in Santiago de Compostela. Critics praised the intensity and intimacy of his performance, highlighting how the inclusion of a violinist added depth and a unique layer to his band’s sound. Fans described it as a moving experience that perfectly captured the spirit of pilgrimage—emotional, raw, and profoundly human.
We were there and loved every bit of it—the energy, the emotion, and the connection with the crowd made it an unforgettable night. One of the most moving moments came when Hansard invited a pilgrim from the audience up on stage to play alongside him, creating a truly magical, shared experience that perfectly captured the spirit of the Camino.
Ready to Embark on Your Own Camino Journey?
Inspired by Glen Hansard’s transformative voyage? At Follow the Camino, we specialize in curating personalized Camino de Santiago experiences that resonate with your spirit and aspirations. Whether you’re seeking a reflective solo pilgrimage, a group adventure, or a custom Camino akin to Hansard’s, we have the expertise to guide you.
Contact us today to begin your own Camino odyssey. Let the path to Santiago de Compostela be more than just a walk—let it be a journey of self-discovery, connection, and transformation.
