Tour Guide Bios

John O’Halloran is a true son of Connemara, a modern version of the traditional men of this region, with roots dating back to the 16th century; he is a direct descendant of the last “King of Innis Boffin and Inis Shark Island.” John holds a degree in archaeology and history from NUI Galway and has 15 years of experience as a walking and cycling guide. His numerous affiliations include founding member of the Connemara Walking Club and Western Lakes Cycling Club, and accredited coach and manager of Cycling Ireland. He has led tours for Harvard and Yale and will lead an archeological dig for Notre Dame this year. John lives with his wife and four children on their farm where they breed Connemara ponies. His mixture of deep-rooted connection to the past, excitement for the outdoors, and passionate love of place will make this trip come alive.

Louisa Mayock lives on Fiddlehead Farm in Connecticut, with her husband and four children, where she has her Fiddlehead Antiques Barn and Walking Tours businesses. Her ties to the Ireland’s West Coast run deep, as she is an Irish citizen that has spent numerous hours exploring this region of Ireland she loves most. Louisa comes to you with the rich experiences of having backpacked around the globe, her zest for fitness in the great outdoors, and her intimate knowledge of this region.

Joyce Kennedy lives in Connecticut with her husband and three children, where she is partner in Fiddlehead Antiques and Walking Tours. She has a degree in environmental biology and is passionate about protecting our lands and water so that we can go on walking beautiful trails. Most recently she worked as the Water Quality Coordinator for the Farmington River Watershed Association . Joyce is an avid backpacker, canoeist and bicyclist, and has led many adventures. She brings to this trip her knowledge and love of the natural world.