Let us introduce you to Séamus Doohan, a true expert on the Irish outdoors. Born and raised in the beautiful Gaeltacht region of Donegal, Séamus has always had a deep love for nature. He learned his way around the countryside early on with the local sea scouts, developing essential outdoor skills.
After serving in the Irish Defence Forces for five years, where he honed his navigation and hiking skills in the Wicklow Mountains, Séamus continued to explore the Irish landscape. He’s a passionate member of the North West Mountaineering Club, even serving as their Chairperson and Training Officer.
Séamus Doohan joined the Freewheeling team around 2016 as our lead guide for our Ireland: Donegal Walking Tour, and we’ve been lucky to have him ever since!
We asked Séamus a few questions:
What inspired you to become a walking tour guide?
I have always loved being outdoors, and when I started hiking with a club I saw so much more of Donegal’s varied landscapes. It evolved from there and I’m so happy sharing the rugged beauty of Donegal with those that come here for guided tours.
How do you make your tours special for each group?
What makes each tour special or unique is the clients that I’m hiking with… I also tailor the walks to suit the clients needs and abilities.. we always have a laugh or two as there’s never a dull moment!
What is it about Donegal that keeps you coming back for more?
I try to get out for rambles as much as possible, searching for new unexplored tracks and trails…. especially along the coast and on islands where the landscape and weather is always changing. I am fascinated by the untouched Archaeology that we have here in Donegal…. this is a project that I’m working on whenever I get spare time.
What’s your most memorable moment while exploring Donegal?
Before I had joined the walking club I had done a few rambles into the Derryveagh mountains, and I came across this small house that was nestled on the edge of Lough Altan. There is so much history with this house going back to 1844 and also with the Sheep Wars here in Donegal.. My hidden gem ….
Do you have any hidden skills or fun facts about yourself to share with our readers?
I like having fun with the clients that come out walking with me … if I can get a laugh or two each day I can go home happy. I also do painting classes here locally each winter and I have so many photos of landscapes here in Donegal to put on Canvas … watch this space.
Here’s what past Freewheeling guests say about Séamus:
- “Séamus was excellent and obviously enjoys what he does. He has the gift for gab and was able to keep all of us entertained.” Donalda M., 2017
- “Séamus Doohan was a great asset to the trip, with knowledge of history, the land, and the flowers. Thankful for his guidance.” Mac M., 2016
Ready to experience the magic of Donegal with Séamus?
Book our Ireland: Donegal Walking Tour today! We’ll do our best to make your Irish adventure unforgettable with Seamus as your guide.
Prefer exploring on two wheels instead?
Check out our Ireland: Donegal Biking Tour for a different kind of adventure, with a lot of the same highlights including Slieve League, and Glenveagh National Park, stunning coastlines, and charming villages.
Beyond Ireland, embark on an unforgettable journey with Freewheeling Adventures, where exhilarating cycling and walking tours take you through the breathtaking landscapes of England, Scotland, and Wales – adventure, discovery, and excitement await!