Frequently Asked Questions - All FAQs

The following items are listed to assist your preparations for your holiday. Items such as woollen hats and gloves are included as cold weather can occur at any time of year, however it is not expected that you will need them in July and August.

Essential items:

• Good boots, which are waterproof
• Thick woollen socks
• Waterproof jacket & overtrousers
• Fleece/pile jacket (or similar)
• Warm hat and gloves
• Trousers / track suit bottoms / breeches (not denim jeans - these become very cold and heavy when wet and do not dry)
• Waterproof map case
• Daypack / rucksack
• Lunch box
• Vacuum flask
• Waterbottle
• Sun hat, suncream and Lipsalve
• Personal first aid kit for blisters, etc.
• Insect repellent
• Mobile phone for emergency calls

Optional Items:

• Walking stick/pole
• Shorts
• Gaiters (fit over the boot and lower)
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Swim wear
• Book or reading material
• Compass

The importance of good footwear cannot be over stressed. You should not walk in sports training/running shoes. Trails in Ireland are subjected to frequent rainfall and after rainy spells they often become wet and muddy. Once your boots are wet it is unlikely you will be able to dry them before the following day, so investing in waterproof boots will make you more comfortable. Good strong ankle high walking boots will support the ankle and provide invaluable protection on uneven ground. It is not a good idea to wear new boots on a walking holiday, as blisters are often a problem if boots are not worn in.

If you are caught in a downpour with good waterproofs, you will remain dry. Unfortunately, many clients are unaware of the poor performance of their coats until it is too late. Few waterproofs remain waterproof for more than five years, with many deteriorating in three years or less.

A picnic lunch is provided on most walking days. Your lunch will normally comprise of sandwiches, a chocolate bar or piece of cake, and a piece of fruit. If you bring a thermos flask, this will be filled with tea or coffee. You should bring a water bottle for drinks during the day. You will be able to buy additional snacks and drinks from local shops for during your walk.

These have become increasingly popular as a walking aid for walkers of all ages and abilities. They do help enormously when crossing rough ground and streams, they also assist progress when going up and down hills.

The accommodation is allocated on a twin sharing basis. We stay in bed & breakfast accommodation, where we hope to fuse the best standard we can get with the warmest welcome. We ensure en suite facilities almost all of the time however in some of the more remote spots one might occasionally have to share a bathroom.