Among the participants were Vincent, Saidhbhe, and Pat, who proudly represented Headfort Arms. The eight-day cycle challenge covered over 800 kilometres, starting from Casey’s of Baltimore in Cork and finishing at Arnold’s in Dunfanaghy, Donegal.
This challenging journey was more than a display of stamina and camaraderie; it marked the 10th anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way and highlighted the positive impact this iconic route has had on local communities over the past decade. The goal of the event? To raise €50,000 for the Irish Cancer Society, a charity close to the hearts of many participants.
The cycle was conducted relay-style, with participants from different hotels joining the ride at various stages along the Wild Atlantic Way. The route itself, known for its stunning, rugged landscapes, passed by several of the hotels in the Original Irish Hotels collection. Riders had the opportunity to stop at iconic hotels such as Randles Hotel in Killarney, Parknasilla Resort and Spa in Sneem, Fitzgerald Woodlands Hotel in Adare, Lough Inagh Lodge in Connemara, and Mill Park Hotel in Donegal. The event was a true reflection of Ireland’s community spirit, with hotel proprietors, staff, guests, suppliers, and local heroes—both seasoned and leisure cyclists—joining forces for this noble cause.
Each day saw the participants cover approximately 100 kilometers, ultimately visiting 24 hotels across eight days. While the physical challenge was significant, the purpose behind the effort—supporting cancer patients and research—was an even greater motivator. Funds raised will go directly toward the vital services provided by the Irish Cancer Society, from patient support and care to funding crucial cancer research projects across Ireland.
Stephen Belton, Chairperson of Original Irish Hotels, expressed the group's passion for the cause, saying, “When thinking about creating the challenge, we wanted to ensure whatever we did not only brought our Original Irish Hotels friends and family together but also made a difference to our local communities. The Irish Cancer Society was the right charity to partner with, as everyone in our community and throughout Ireland has been touched by cancer in some way.”
Original Irish Hotels is more than just a hotel collection; it’s a community-focused group that understands the importance of giving back. By choosing the Irish Cancer Society as their charity partner for this event, the hotels are ensuring that their support reaches those who need it most in their communities.
For those unfamiliar with Original Irish Hotels, it is a unique collection of 50 independent, owner-operated hotels located in some of Ireland’s most breathtaking locations, including along the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, and the Causeway Coast. Each hotel offers guests a warm Irish welcome and personalized experience, whether in a boutique hotel, a historic castle, or a charming country house.
Through this charity cycle, Original Irish Hotels not only celebrated the beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way but also strengthened their ties to the communities that they serve, while making a meaningful contribution to the fight against cancer.
This inspiring event highlights the power of local businesses, their staff, and communities coming together for a greater good, ensuring that Ireland’s hospitality goes beyond guest services and extends to making a real difference where it’s needed most.
Original article by Hotel and Restaurant Times
