Join HUGG Walks

We know that grief can feel isolating, especially after losing someone to suicide.  That’s why HUGG is launching HUGG Walks – a welcoming space where you can get outdoors, move at a comfortable pace and connect with others.

Led by experienced walkers with support from HUGG volunteers, these walks bring together the power of nature, gentle exercise, and shared understanding.  Whether your loss is recent or many years ago, you’re welcome to join us.

Why join a HUGG Walk?

  • Being outside can lift your mood and help clear your mind
  • Walking is a great way to ease stress and take care of yourself
  • You’ll be in good company – just a chance to connect naturally

What to wear

All walkers are advised to wear good comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the conditions. Hill walking shoes or boots are strongly advised for Medium and High Walks. Walks out in nature, especially those in the hills and mountains around Dublin and Wicklow, can often be mucky and conditions can change quickly, so it’s advisable to bring a change of clothes, carry a water bottle, something to eat and, if walking in cold weather, a hot drink. A small rucksack will usually fit all you need.

Dog Free Zone

Some of the areas we walk through are wildlife protected areas where sheep and deer roam freely and ground nesting birds can be found. To protect the environment and other walkers, we ask that you please refrain from bringing dogs with you.

HUGG Walks – Locations and Dates

HUGG walks take place in County Dublin and County Wicklow, and depart from the meeting point at 10:30am. Walk leaders will go at an easy pace to facilitate everyone on the walk. The aim is to stroll, giving people the time and space to enjoy the scenery and to allow for conversation while walking through nature, should walkers wish to chat.

Saturday 17th May- Bird Watch Ireland East Coast Nature Reserve – Approx 5km and between 1.5-2 hours

Meeting point: Entrance Gate at East Coast Nature Reserve

This is an easy stroll through a wonderful nature reserve operated and maintained by Bird Watch Ireland. The East Coast Nature Reserve opened to the public in 2009. While the shorter North Walk is open to the public all year round, the longer Summer Walk is only open from April to September. Walking is mostly on grassy paths and boardwalks. Some paths, particularly those through the wooded areas can be muddy.

Sunday 25th May – Derrybawn Loop – 10km and between 2.5 and 3.5 hours

Meeting point: Laragh Free Car Park

Leaving from the car park the path runs past the old Woolen Mills and continues along the Green Road, past Loch na Péiste to the edge of the Lower Lake. The path rises sharply from the lake shore by the Poulanass Waterfall to the summit of Derrybawn. From there it descends to Aoife’s Wood and via the zig zags before returning back along the outward path to the car park.

Saturday 14th June – Sandymount Strand to Poolbeg Lighthouse – 11km and between 2.5 and 3 hours

Meeting point:  Sandymount Strand Car Park 1

This is a walk well known to many Dubliners. Starting at Car Park 1 on Sandymount Strand and continuing along the strand or the path to Irishtown Nature Park, the Shelly Banks and the Poolbeg Lighthouse at the end of the Great South Wall. Returning the same route.

Sunday 29th June – Maulin Mountain Loop – 9km and between 2.5 – 3 hours

Meeting point: Crone Wood Car Park

Starting from the car park the path rises quickly along the Wicklow Way to overlook Powerscourt Waterfall. Leaving the forest the path turns north and then north west to the summit of Maulin. There is a steep descent west of the peak heading north east before entering the forest and returning back to the car park.

After the walk, stick around for a cup of tea or cofee – no rush, no expectations, just good company.

Reserve your spot today by registering here: https://tinyurl.com/HUGGWalks

For any queries please email walks@HUGG.ie