Dave Byrnes' Adventures

After two quiet years "adventure-wise", for various reasons, I have been keen to resume my annual adventures.

I enjoyed my hike from Lands End to John O'Groats (LEJOG) in the UK in 2010 so much that I began looking for something similar.  Ireland seemed like a possibility and I began seriously researching the subject last year.  Although there were few recognised trails matching the scale of the UK long-distance footpaths, I did find the Irish Trails website and the Walk Northern Ireland website, both of which provide a wealth of information on trails in their respective jurisdictions.  The idea began to form of linking together some of the trails to build a hiking route around Ireland.  Between the marked trails, I have plotted routes that utilise back roads that I hope will not carry much traffic and give me a feel for the country.  The trails I plan to follow, at least in part, are:

• The Wicklow Way

• South Leinster Way

• East Munster Way

• Avondhu Way

• Sli Gaeltacht Mhuscrai

• Beara Way

• The Kerry Way

• The Dingle Way

• The North Kerry Way

• Lough Derg Way

• East Clare Way

• Mid Clare Way

• Burren Way

• The Western Way - Galway

• The Western Way - Mayo

• The Sligo Way

• Miner's Way & Historical Trail

• Cavan Way

• Ulster Way

The total calculated distance is 2600 kilometres, but my route will be flexible and I would like to finish inside of 90 days, given visa-free travel requirements, if I can manage it.  Local knowledge, weather, boredom and injuries could all lead to itinerary changes.

I will carry a tent, sleeping bag and some extra food, but intend to use hostels, bed & breakfasts and hotels where available at a reasonable price.

I will leave Australia on 16 March, four days after a big trail marathon for which I have been training, spend a few days in London followed by a few days in Dublin, and begin hiking around 25 March.

ADVENTURE LIST

Round Ireland
(2016)

Hume & Hovell Walking Track
(2013)

Via Alpina
(2012)

Australian Alps Walking Track
(2011)

Land's End to John O'Groats
(2010)

Round Oz Bike Record Attempt
(2009)

Round Oz Bike Record Attempt
(2008)

Round Oz Bike Record Attempt
(2007)

Australia Tip to Top MTB
(2006)

Adelaide to Darwin MTB
(2005)

Sydney to Melbourne MTB
(2004)

Three Peaks Race
(2004)

Appalachian Trail
(1986)

Alpine Track
(1983)

You can email Dave directly at dave@davebyrnes.com.au or subscribe to his Adventure Blogs here.

You can see Dave's Running Blog here.