Darragh Devaney

I’ve been with Wilderness Ireland since just about the beginning – I joined in 2015 as an Adventure Consultant and Bike Programme Manager, though my role has since evolved into Operations Manager, managing Wilderness Ireland’s operations team.

In the past, I’ve worked as a bike courier, a teacher of English as a second language, and media officer. I’m a trained editor though I mainly use this skill in my writing for Wilderness Ireland.

One of my favourite methods of travel is by bike. A few years ago, my wife and I decided to explore the western half of France – by bike! We packed up what we’d need for the journey and headed over to France. We spent the next few months cycling from village to village, biking along quiet canals and meandering country lanes through vibrant fields overlooked by imposing castles. Not only did I learn a lot about France (and eat a lot of cheese), I learned how to service my own bike. It was an amazing experience!

Another amazing experience was spending a year as an English teacher in South Korea. Seoul was a huge change (and a bit of a culture shock!) though because of this, it really changed my perspective and outlook on life.

I’ve travelled through some of the most epic and beautiful wild regions of Europe, Canada and the west coast of America.

I’m an avid road cyclist as well as mountain biker. I love nothing more than getting out on my fatbike to explore the hills of Sligo. In fact, since moving to Sligo, I’ve picked up surfing (though I have to say, I’m a fair weather surfer!). With my wife and daughter, we often set off for the backcountry to camp and hike – Ireland just has so many beautiful places to discover!

I’m also interested in wellness – our Biking & Yoga Escape was actually my initiative as I wanted to design a trip that encompasses two of my favourite activities!

Living in Leitrim and working in Sligo, I know the hills and mountains northwest of Ireland very well. I’ve biked across the entire County Donegal, and hiked extensively across Connemara and its mountain range, the Twelve Bens. I do have a soft spot for Cork and Kerry – though these are among Ireland’s most popular regions, I love showing people that even the regions that see the highest amounts of visitors still have secrets to share with you if you know where to look!