More than 180 tour directors, drivers, guides and coach operators from across Ireland gathered in Killarney last weekend for a special Mass to remember colleagues who have passed away over the years.

The Mass was held at the Franciscan Friary and was organised by Tour Director Murt O’Shea, along with fellow CIE Tours Tour Director Philip Duffy. Participants travelled from all over the country to attend.
The service was led by Fr Anthony, with readings delivered by Michael Redmond, the most senior driver/guide in the industry with 62 years’ service, and Dominic Dixon.
The Mass was inspired by the recent passing of Con O’Leary of the Laurels Bar, Killarney, a long-time friend of the touring community. The most recent colleague remembered was Jamie O’Mahony, who passed away unexpectedly.

Ireland’s outdoor and wellness festival Wander Wild will return to Killarney from April 17 to 19, with its largest programme to date.

Now entering its fifth year, the festival will feature more than 120 events across adventure, nature and wellbeing, set mainly within Killarney National Park and supported by a central Basecamp and evening entertainment across the town.

Organisers say the 2026 programme builds on previous years with a wider mix of high-adrenaline activities and slower-paced wellness experiences, designed to cater for all ages and abilities.

Events will include guided mountain hikes, rock climbing, paddleboarding, cycling, lake and boat trips, along with yoga, meditation, breathwork and sound therapy sessions.

New additions for 2026 include guided hikes on lesser-used routes such as Carrauntoohil via the Heavenly Gates and North Mangerton, sensory-friendly rock climbing, eco-therapy sessions, creative panel discussions and a dedicated family area known as Wildlings.

A number of established festival favourites will also return, including the Dark Sky Hike, sunrise lake dips at Dundag, lakeside sauna sessions, Rave ar Róthar cycling event and guided walks with National Park rangers.

The Wellness Hub at Killarney House and Gardens will again host a full schedule of movement and mindfulness sessions throughout the weekend, while evening events will include talks, live music, art workshops and social gatherings at venues around the town.

Accessibility remains a key focus, with autism-friendly and neurodivergent-inclusive events planned, including tailored walks, climbing sessions and a sensory space at Basecamp. Killarney’s status as an autism-friendly town continues to shape festival planning.

A mix of free and ticketed events will be offered, with prices ranging from €10 to €100. Many activities in the National Park and entertainment at Basecamp will be free to attend.

Festival chairperson Kieran Kavanagh said the aim is to offer a balanced programme that reflects Killarney’s landscape and community, while encouraging people to reconnect with the outdoors and their wellbeing.

Tickets for Wander Wild 2026 are expected to go on sale early in the new year, with further events to be announced. More information is available at wanderwildfestival.com.