How it started

In the early 1990s, Linda saw visitors racing past places that deserved time. She began leading small groups on the Dingle, Kerry and Beara peninsulas. Guests wanted the same depth of experience without a fixed group date, so self-guided walking followed. The aim never changed. It was always to help people explore Ireland safely, at the right pace, with the right support.

From SouthWest Walks to all-island journeys

Demand grew for routes beyond the south west. A Northern Ireland cycling operator joined the fold, adding bike expertise and opening up the full island. With walking and cycling now side by side, the brand evolved into Ireland Walk Hike Bike, reflecting the broader range and reach.

Building capacity and craft

As the product matured, the team did too. Operations, luggage transfers, route notes and mapping improved year by year. Partnerships with local accommodation and transport providers deepened. The guiding team expanded, bringing in specialists with language skills and deep local knowledge. The goal was simple. Keep the feel of an independent, owner-led company while delivering reliable, friendly service.

Our sustainability journey

Looking after the places we love is part of the story. Over time we formalised our eco ethos with clear policies and practical steps that help reduce our footprint. We plan routes that use public transport where possible, encourage low-impact choices on tour, and support local suppliers who share our standards. Small decisions, applied consistently, add up across the season.

What this means for your holiday

• Choice of pace: Comfortable, Moderate or Energetic options so days feel right for you.

• Reliable support: Clear route notes, luggage transfers and a friendly team on call.

• Local insight: Routes and recommendations shaped by people who live here.

• Responsible travel: Trips designed to keep communities and landscapes thriving.

Milestones at a glance

• 1994: SouthWest Walks founded by Linda Woods in the south west of Ireland

• Late 1990s: Self-guided walking introduced

• 2000s: Cycling added and coverage extends across the island

• 2013: Maurice Whelan joins Linda as Managing Director and co-owner

• 2016: Francis Hartnett joins the company

• 2020: Self-Drive Tours introduced

• 2020: Linda Woods steps back from the day-to-day running of the company to concentrate on 

• 2021: Francis Hartnett becomes co-owner

• 2024: 0 emission luggage transfers on the Kerry Way introduced

• 2024–2025: 30 years of walking and cycling holidays in Ireland

Frequently asked questions

When was the company founded?
In 1994. It began as SouthWest Walks before evolving into Ireland Walk Hike Bike as our trips expanded.

Who founded it?
Guide and entrepreneur Linda Woods.

Why did the name change?
To reflect the move from a south west focus to all of Ireland, and to include cycling as well as walking.

Who runs the company today?
Maurice Whelan is Managing Director and owner. Francis Hartnett is co-owner.

Where are you based?
Tralee, County Kerry, close to the Dingle and Iveragh peninsulas.

Do you run both guided and self-guided trips?
Yes. You can travel with a small group or independently with our support team and detailed materials.

Looking ahead

Three decades in, our aim stays the same. Thoughtful routes. Warm, local stays. Clear information and dependable support. We will keep refining our trips, deepen our sustainability work and continue to share the Ireland we know best.

Ready to plan?

Tell us your dates, preferred pace and where you would like to go. Our team will suggest a Comfortable, Moderate or Energetic itinerary that fits your time and interests.