THORNHILL WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Walk the Wild Shore with Ireland’s Giant Companions — a private Wolfhound walk on Bertra Beach
A 90‑minute private walk on Bertra Beach with purebred Irish Wolfhounds, hands‑on time with the dogs, and storytelling from Aidan — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Walk the Wild Shore with Ireland’s Giant Companions — a private Wolfhound walk on Bertra Beach.
Experience an exclusive 90‑minute private walk along Bertra Beach at the foot of Croagh Patrick, engaging directly with purebred Irish Wolfhounds while Aidan recounts stories of Celtic mythology and local history — a compact outing that blends animal interaction, landscape, and narrative.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands‑on time with Irish Wolfhounds
The group is introduced to the wolfhounds with an opportunity to greet and cuddle them, learn how they like to be petted and scratched, and ask questions about their personalities, care and eating habits. At the end you can take photos or Aidan will take photos of you with the dogs.
Bertra Beach beneath Croagh Patrick
The walk takes place on Bertra Beach — one of the most beautiful places in the area — where you can enjoy coastal scenery as the group strolls at a time chosen to suit them.
Irish mythology and local history on the sand
As you walk, Aidan shares tales of Celtic mythology and local figures such as Grainne Uaile (Grace O’Malley) and explains why wolfhounds were prized by lords and kings, providing a mix of history and folklore alongside the animal encounter.
What the day feels like
How the walk unfolds
You meet Aidan or Maggie Mae at Bertra Beach, are introduced to the wolfhounds and receive guidance on how to handle and pet them, then set off along the beach for a 90‑minute walk while Aidan tells stories that connect the dogs to local history and Irish mythology — the pace and timing are arranged for your private group.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private walk suits — and when to consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a raincoat, sturdy footwear for walking on the beach, warm and waterproof clothing (hats, scarves, jackets), and a sun hat depending on conditions. Dress for wild weather along the coast.
The standard activity duration is 1 hour 30 minutes.
Meet at Bertra Beach, Bertram Rd, Thornhill, County Mayo, Ireland — at the foot of Croagh Patrick, where you will meet Aidan or Maggie Mae.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I take photos with the wolfhounds?
Yes — at the end of the experience you may take photos or videos of the dogs yourself, or Aidan will take photos while you hold the dogs.
Can the dogs be let off lead?
If possible during your visit, there is an opportunity to let the wolfhounds off lead to run and play.
Can the tour be scheduled to suit our group?
Yes — the private walk is arranged exclusively for your group so you can decide the start time, and the operator will wait as necessary if you are running late.
What is the cancellation policy?
Up to one week before the walk there is a full refund; within one week but before 48 hours there is a 50% refund; there is no refund within 48 hours of the experience.
Is the beach accessible for buggies or wheelchairs?
The beach is difficult to manoeuvre with buggies and wheelchairs; the 'Meet and Greet' option may be more suitable and you should contact Aidan if you have problems reaching the destination.
How long is the walk?
The experience runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.