The social hiking scene in Ireland is thriving – this is your sign to get involved …
Lauren Murray, founder of activity group Saol Sona Ireland – an Irish phrase meaning “happy life” – has always spent most of her time in nature, hiking, swimming, skiing or surfing. “I was lucky enough to spend about five years living abroad and travelling the world, but when I came home in 2024 I completely rediscovered my love for Ireland. I wanted to create a community that makes the outdoors feel accessible and welcoming to everyone, a space where people can meet new friends, try new activities and not feel like they’re missing out on living.”
She created the Saol Sona Society in 2025, and already over 500 people have joined the group on hikes, active trips and social events across the country. “It still blows me away,” she said. She tells us how it all began and her plans for the future.
Why did you create this group? I think most people who emigrated and returned can probably relate to feeling quite lost when you come back. To add to that, for me, when I returned most of my friends were still away. I started going on solo adventures, hiking and wild swimming, then sharing them online. So many people reached out saying that they felt the same – wanting connection or simply looking to get outside, but not wanting to go alone.
It feels like emigration has become such a huge part of life for young people in Ireland, almost like we’re meant to feel we’re missing out if we stay here. I really wanted to challenge that narrative and show that you can enjoy life in Ireland. You can still catch sunrises, explore new places, go for sea swims – and there are so many others here who want that too.
So, I organised a social hike. That’s all that it was meant to be, but it quickly grew into something bigger than I ever could have imagined. What started as one hike has grown into a community where we now run group hikes, weekend trips nationwide, sauna sessions, surfing days and so much more. Most importantly, my aim is to keep as many events as possible fully free of charge, or at least as affordable as possible. It’s now a space to meet new people as much as it is to come and try new activities. Ninety per cent of people come solo, but we also have couples, friends and family who join too.
What are some of the wellbeing benefits? At Christmas, some members surprised me with a video sharing what it means to them and I don’t think I’ve ever felt gratitude like that. People have told me that it improves mental health, helps through tough times, helps find friendships or even relationships. Young adulthood can be such a transition and it’s not always easy to make friends or try something new. What I love about Saol Sona is that there are no expectations, you can just show up as yourself.
Hiking in a group makes something that might feel intimidating suddenly feel accessible. There’s safety, encouragement and a real sense of shared energy. I truly believe that like attracts like and I’ve been incredibly lucky with the people this community brings together. It wouldn’t be what it is without the people who come along each week and the environment that they create.
Tell us about Saol Sona’s sauna sessions? Saunas have been a total game changer for me, not just physically for recovery, but socially too. A sauna and coffee have genuinely replaced the pub as a way to catch up with friends. It’s a space to chat, relax and reset, while also doing something good for your body and mind. I love that this has become the new Ireland, where these have become our social activity norms. My favourite has to be Sophie’s Sauna at Goughies Coffee in Bohernabreena. Sitting in a hot tub and sauna overlooking the Dublin mountains after a hike, what more could you want?!
What’s been your favourite hike so far? I recently started a beginner hiking series online as, trust me, I know the struggles of not having a sense of direction! I recently filmed The Benbulben Forest Walk in Sligo and I couldn’t get over it. It’s an incredible beginner-friendly route and the views are unreal for the effort involved.
The views up Pilgrim’s Path at the Sliabh Liag Cliffs in Donegal are probably some of the most amazing views I’ve seen hiking across anywhere I’ve been in the world. I was lucky enough to spend three months in Hawaii hiking almost every day and that’s where I truly fell in love with it. What’s funny is that on a sunny day in Ireland there are moments where I’d swear I was back there. We really do have magic here, we just don’t always see it.
Another very special hike to me is Lough Bray in Wicklow. I’ve so many happy memories there and it’s where I hosted our first hike. I think it has some of the most magical views in Ireland, even just from the car park!
What are your top tips to get hiking? Start small. You don’t need expensive gear or to go up the biggest mountain in Ireland. Just get outside and build from there. Use apps like Hikker and AllTrails to track routes, especially if you’re directionally challenged like me! And if you’re nervous, join a group. Having support around you makes all the difference.
What piece of hiking gear is non-negotiable? A good waterproof jacket is essential. I always have my Outwest Seasur jacket in my bag. It’s lightweight, sustainable and Irish-designed. Also, waterproof socks from Noord, another Irish company. These are absolute lifesavers when half the country is bogland. Even if your boots aren’t perfect, they keep your feet warm and dry. You don’t need to spend a fortune, check out Decathlon or Mountain Warehouse for great quality, affordable gear.
What are your top coffee break after a hike? As I said, Goughies Coffee in Bohernabreena is a firm favourite, surrounded by the Seahan and Corrig Loop or reservoir walk. Plus they have a sauna on site too, so it’s the perfect post-hike stop. If I’m heading from Kildare towards Wicklow, Enda’s Grocer is a non-negotiable pitstop. Their chocolate brownie is insane. And if you’re heading Donegal direction to hike the Sliabh Liag Cliffs, Brew In Thru coffee van is a must visit.
What’s next for you? It’s already shaping up to be our most exciting year yet. We’re continuing our free social hikes across Ireland nearly every week, alongside our social saunas and weekend trips. Our first weekend trip this year is to Carlingford, Louth in May, then we’re heading abroad for the first time to Wales, Portugal and Peru. I also have lots of surfing trips in the works, which are my favourite. I love seeing more people get into surfing here. We have some of the best waves in the world once you get over the fear of the cold!
How can people get involved? All upcoming events are shared online at Saol Sona and @saolsonaireland on Instagram. Honestly, if you’re worried about coming alone please just do it. I promise that you won’t be the only one and you won’t know how much you might love it unless you give it a try! @laurenmurray9
