By Barry Coughlan
A unique adventure and wellness festival set in the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park is the bucket list festival not to be missed in 2023.
March 23-26 has been set aside for this year’s Wander Wild Festival program which has doubled in scale.
Exciting new additions, including taking a dip in a natural lake ice-bath, immersing in a 3D sensory tour of the Blue Pool Nature Reserve, the premiere of two Irish adventure films, a gourmet food trail, and an expanded children’s activity camp, are featured.
With everyone focused on new resolutions and planning new adventures for 2023, this is a great Irish festival to experience Irish nature at its best.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, or a rambler who treks off the beaten track, or are on the search for new mindful experiences, there’s something to suit all wanderers at the great outdoors festival, which returns to Killarney.
The unique adventure and wellness festival, is set in the lakes and mountains of the 25,000-acre UNESCO Killarney National Park.
Over the weekend the emphasis will be on hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, horse riding, rambling or any other one of a number of wellness activities set against a backdrop of stunning scenic landscapes.
Thrill seekers can scale Carrauntoohil – Ireland’s highest mountain, test their endurance on a trail run through the Gap of Dunloe, enjoy a night trail run on the Old Kenmare Road, rise to new heights with rock climbing and abseiling or join an outdoor classroom and learn how to move off the beaten track with a Steep Ground Master Class.
The festival offers something for all outdoor lovers, ages, and abilities, with a myriad of unique experiences for those who seek out the rare or unusual.
Paddle back in time on a Kayak Tour to Innisfallen Island – home to a monastery dating back to 640 AD, or start the day with a sunrise dip at Dundag, float in nature with an enchanting forest bath, discover the power of breath with a Wim Hog Method Workshop or savor a warm recovery with a Samhrady Sauna Experience.
Amongst the additions include a natural ice-bath in the Lakes of Killarney, a 3D sensory tour of the Blue Pool Nature Reserve with a light and sound installation, the premiere of two Irish adventure films, a gourmet food trail, a photo exhibition, and an expanded children’s activity camp. You can also nourish your inner self with a range of culinary and cultural experiences unique to the area.
For those who want to explore the National Park with the benefit of local knowledge, there are guided hikes, night walks, and pony treks, urban orienteering, photo exhibitions, and self guided loop walks for families.
Wellness enthusiasts can experience Yoga and Light Therapy, Reiki and more plus a strength and conditioning class to assist hikers over 55.
A feature of the festival is that it allows an experience of remoteness by day and plenty of entertainment in a party town at night.
Killarney hosts the electric basecamp for the festival, harnessing the power of the Killarney UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the bustling town to offer a compelling weekend of activities and social events.
A spectacular opening Spring Equinox parade will take place through the streets to celebrate the end of winter and the rebirth of spring, and there will be a Beat Party Workout and Dance Party, and live music and entertainment in local bars.
Pat Chawke, Chairperson of Wander Wild Festival, said, “This is a fantastic chance to explore the stunning Killarney National Park, its lakes and its mountains, in a unique way. From solo travelers to families and groups of friends, from ardent adventurers to those who just love the great outdoors, we have something for everyone, whether that’s wilderness, wellness or wanderlust!
“It’s about being out in nature, self-care, and the simple pleasures of going for a float, ramble, roam, stray or stroll! There are also good deals over the weekend as the festival kick starts our tourism season, so it’s a great time to explore and enjoy everything that Killarney town and the National Park has to offer.”
There’s a plentiful and diverse range of accommodation options in Killarney with something for every budget, from hostels and self-catering to four- and five-star hotels.
Shuttle buses will transfer people from the town center to all the activities making the connection from vibrant Killarney to the majestic wilderness of the surrounding natural landscape, quick and convenient!
Many events are free, and some are ticketed. Those looking to secure their preferred events or avail of early bird weekend activity packages which are now live can book on wanderwildfestiva.com.
For updates on new activities follow WanderWildFestival on Instagram and Facebook or email info@wanderwildfestival.com