Healing Hikes Bray

Healing Hikes Bray is a charity wellness morning on Bray Head, combining a group walk with yoga, breathwork and an optional cold-water dip in the Irish Sea. Organised by Lisa Doolan, this edition on Sunday, 19 July 2026 supports Denis, who is running a full marathon that same day finishing in Bray, with proceeds going toward mental health advocacy. It follows an earlier Healing Hikes Bray gathering held in June, and is open to all levels, men and women alike.

What to expect

The morning starts with a walk up Bray Head, taking in the sea air and the coastline views the headland is known for, with mindful moments built into the climb rather than treated as a route march. At the summit and afterwards at a grassy seaside spot, the group settles in for a wellness session: ceremonial cacao, a 40-minute yoga class, guided breathwork and meditation, followed by a community picnic where everyone brings something to share. The morning closes with an optional cold-water immersion in the Irish Sea for anyone who wants it. Partway through, Denis, who is completing a full marathon that finishes in Bray that day, will speak about mental health, resilience and wellbeing, tying the walk to the cause it supports.

Getting there

The meeting point is the Star Leisure & Casino car park at Bray Head, at the southern end of Bray’s seafront. Bray has its own DART and railway station in the town centre, a level walk or short bus ride from the seafront, and the seafront itself has pay parking for anyone driving.

While you’re in Bray

Bray’s seafront and harbour are right there before or after the hike, and the Harbour Bar, one of the town’s oldest pubs, is a few minutes’ walk from the car park. There is more to see in Bray and across Co. Wicklow.

Good to know

• Date: Sunday, 19 July 2026, 9:00am to 12:00pm
• Meeting point: Star Leisure & Casino car park, Bray Head, Bray
• Price: free to attend; the morning raises funds through Denis’s marathon fundraiser
• Bring: comfortable shoes, a yoga mat, water, layers, swimwear if joining the sea swim, and a picnic item to share
• Organiser: Lisa Doolan