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active 23 hours ago

Dean Garrison

My role as a Sales executive is to help my clients achieve what they are looking for in a holiday to Ireland. Whether that would be offering places to stay, providing a detail Itinerary outlining specific walks or hikes to participate in or to suggest unique and interesting places to visit. My aim is to get as much information out of people as possible so I can provide a trip that they will remember for years to come.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

""Saying that "I" specialize in Hiking and cycling would be to deny the amazing team that I work with at Ireland Walk Hike Bike. Our company was set up with one purpose in mind – to show guests the real Ireland that we know and love. Having watched many visitors “flash” through Ireland – my business partner and founder of the company Linda Woods decided back in 1994 to find a better way to see the country. As Linda says “My aim was to slow people down, so they really get their feet into the soul of the country, meet the locals & discover what makes Ireland & the Irish tick………” and 24 years later – this is exactly what Ireland Walk Hike Bike is still doing today….
We specialise in hiking and cycling holidays both Guided or Self Guided and take great pride in designing bespoke holidays in line with the needs of our guests."
"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have been involved in the travel industry for over 12 years. Starting off by studying a International Travel and Tourism degree learning the in and out of the industry. I then undertook 1 year trip around the world visiting over 30 countries across 6 continents. Since then I have spent the last 8 years continuing to travel to different countries as well as working in different roles within the industry expanding my knowledge and passing this information on to others. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I have been on many hiking holidays but the one that will have a special place in my heart was my trip to Peru and participating on the Inca Trail. 4 days of breath taking views and exploring old Inca ruins. The main event of the trip however was towards the end where you approach The Sun Gates and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu (the lost Inca City) without a doubt one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had."

Dean is part of the following groups: Ireland Travel Agents, Ireland Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Dean

Dean was the best! We did a self guided tour ...
Ireland | May 21 - May 28, 2026

Onna
Onna L.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 01, 2026
Dean was the best! We did a self guided tour and his guidance took us to the most beautiful places! When people ask, what my favorite part of the trip was…I say, I loved it all! The lush rolling green hills with sheep, the castles, the gorgeous beaches, the dramatic cliffs, the wild flowers, and the lovely sea side villages. Ireland will forever hold a place in my heart 💚 Thank you so much for this experience. Read more

Dean was the best! We did a self guided tour and his guidance took us to the most beautiful places! When people ask, what my favorite part of the trip was…I say, I loved it all! The lush rolling green hills with sheep, the castles, the gorgeous beaches, the dramatic cliffs, the wild flowers, and the lovely sea side villages. Ireland will forever hold a place in my heart 💚 Thank you so much for this experience.

Hotel Review
Doolin Inn
Doolin, Co. Clare

Lovely seaside Inn

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful seaside Inn
Location
Staff
Very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jun 07, 2026
Hi Onna Thank you so much for your kind words! It means the world to hear that you loved every part of your time in Ireland. From the rolling green hills and grazing sheep to the castles, beaches, cliffs, wildflowers, and charming seaside villages, it sounds like you truly experienced the magic that makes this country so special. I'm delighted that the self-guided tour helped you discover some of Ireland’s most beautiful places and create memories that will stay with you long after you've... Read more

Hi Onna

Thank you so much for your kind words!

It means the world to hear that you loved every part of your time in Ireland. From the rolling green hills and grazing sheep to the castles, beaches, cliffs, wildflowers, and charming seaside villages, it sounds like you truly experienced the magic that makes this country so special.

I'm delighted that the self-guided tour helped you discover some of Ireland’s most beautiful places and create memories that will stay with you long after you've returned home. Knowing that Ireland now holds a special place in your heart is exactly why we do what we do.

Thank you for trusting us with your adventure, and hopefully we'll have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Ireland someday for even more exploring!

Warm regards,

Dean
Ireland Walk Hike Bike

Amazing Trip!
Ireland | May 13 - May 22, 2026

H
Heather T.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on May 23, 2026
The trip was amazing, we saw all the things we wanted to and everything was so well planned out for us. We loved the Ring of Kerry drive most, do not miss Valentina Island and the Kerry Cliffs.. wow! The one thing we might have changed was staying in Killarney for 3 nights instead of 2, you can spend a whole day just in the national park, so much to see! Read more

The trip was amazing, we saw all the things we wanted to and everything was so well planned out for us. We loved the Ring of Kerry drive most, do not miss Valentina Island and the Kerry Cliffs.. wow! The one thing we might have changed was staying in Killarney for 3 nights instead of 2, you can spend a whole day just in the national park, so much to see!

Hotel Reviews
Churchfield Bed & Breakfast
Doolin, Co. Clare

This is the cutest, coziest B&B! We had a family room and it was perfect, the sitting room was so cute and reminded us so much of grandma’s house! The location is perfect, a literal one minute walk to two great restaurants and pubs but also very quiet. The family running the place is just lovely and cook up a great breakfast!

Authenticity & Character
So quaint and cozy
Location
At the edge of town so it’s quiet but so close to several great food/pub options.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Old Weir Lodge
Killarney
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on May 27, 2026

Hi Heather

Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you had such an amazing trip and that everything was smoothly planned for you. The Ring of Kerry really is spectacular, and we couldn’t agree more about Valentia Island and the Kerry Cliffs, such special spots!

We hope to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Fantastic self-guided walking in Southwest Ireland
Ireland | Apr 13 - Apr 19, 2026

D
Dorothy H.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Apr 25, 2026
We had an ideal self-guided walking trip in southwest Ireland thanks to Kimkim connecting us with Ireland Walk, Hike, Bike. Dean Garrison from that company tailored 5 days of walking that perfectly suited our interests and abilities. We had superb communication with Dean as he tweaked the itinerary in response to our input. The transfers between hotels were flawless—all the drivers were really wonderful people. The hotels were wonderful, and the food at the Brook Lane in Kenmare was a... Read more

We had an ideal self-guided walking trip in southwest Ireland thanks to Kimkim connecting us with Ireland Walk, Hike, Bike. Dean Garrison from that company tailored 5 days of walking that perfectly suited our interests and abilities. We had superb communication with Dean as he tweaked the itinerary in response to our input. The transfers between hotels were flawless—all the drivers were really wonderful people. The hotels were wonderful, and the food at the Brook Lane in Kenmare was a special treat. When we had to modify the last day of hiking, Dean’s colleague Katie gave us instant support, suggesting not just one alternative option but three. We are already dreaming of coming back for another week of walking in Ireland. Truly, an amazing experience!

Hotel Review
Brook Lane
Kenmare

Wonderful hospitality and amazing food in adjoining restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful design and wonderful comfort combined with genuine hospitality
Location
Staff
The waitstaff in the restaurant made us feel at home
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on May 12, 2026
Hi Dorothy Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to hear that your self-guided walking trip in southwest Ireland was such a memorable experience. I am glad to hear that the itinerary matched your interests and abilities so well, and that the communication and support throughout the trip made everything seamless. It’s wonderful to hear that the transfers, drivers, hotels, and especially your stay and dining experience at Brook Lane in Kenmare added to the enjoyment of your... Read more

Hi Dorothy

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to hear that your self-guided walking trip in southwest Ireland was such a memorable experience. I am glad to hear that the itinerary matched your interests and abilities so well, and that the communication and support throughout the trip made everything seamless.

It’s wonderful to hear that the transfers, drivers, hotels, and especially your stay and dining experience at Brook Lane in Kenmare added to the enjoyment of your journey. We’re also glad Katie could quickly help when your plans changed and provide flexible alternatives so you could continue enjoying your adventure.

Thank you again for trusting us with your trip. We’d love to welcome you back to Ireland for another walking adventure in the future!

Our driver/guide was very professional, helpf...
Ireland | Mar 27 - Apr 3, 2026

P
Peter H.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 08, 2026

Our driver/guide was very professional, helpful and friendly. He helped make the trip great.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Apr 15, 2026

Hi Peter

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that your driver/guide made such a positive impact on your trip. Providing professional, friendly, and helpful service is something we truly value, and it's great to know that it helped make your experience memorable. We hope to welcome you again in the future!

I cannot be more satisfied.
Ireland | Sep 8 - Sep 20, 2025

john
john b.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025
I cannot be more satisfied. They designed exactly the tour I wanted, made all arrangements for lodging, transportation, and excursions. The quality of lodging was excellent. The app they provided was easy to use, very helpful, and allowed easy access of information. Read more

I cannot be more satisfied. They designed exactly the tour I wanted, made all arrangements for lodging, transportation, and excursions. The quality of lodging was excellent. The app they provided was easy to use, very helpful, and allowed easy access of information.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Isaacs Cork City Hotel
Cork

Modern, comfortable, great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Doolin Inn
Doolin, Co. Clare

Wonderful owner!

Authenticity & Character
Location
There was no taxi service so transportation was difficult
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bathroom is rather small
Harbour Hotel
Galway

Modern, comfortable, great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin

Modern, comfortable, great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Sep 25, 2025

Hi Joihn

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you were so satisfied with your tour and that everything — from the itinerary and lodging to the app and excursions — met your expectations.

It was a pleasure helping you plan your adventure, and we’re thrilled that you enjoyed the experience. If you ever plan another trip, we’d love to assist you again.

Warm regards,

Dean

Self-Drive 21 days in Ireland
Ireland | Aug 26 - Sep 14, 2025

Trish
Trish C.
the Netherlands | Reviewed on Sep 19, 2025

We gave Ireland Walk Hike Bike our itinerary and they planned everything for us - accommodations were excellent, the hire car was great, the private drive on the Ring of Kerry was fabulous, the routings were well-planned. All-in-all a really great trip!

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Sep 22, 2025

Hi Trish

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're absolutely delighted to hear that you had such a great experience with us. It was also great to meet you and Robin in person.

It was our pleasure to help bring your trip to life, and we’re thrilled that everything ran smoothly and met your expectations. Ireland has so much to offer, and it means the world to us that we could play a part in making your journey memorable.

We’d love to welcome you back anytime for another adventure.

Kind Regards

Dean

Experience with Dean and KimKim was incredible
Ireland | Aug 24 - Sep 1, 2025

K
Karyn L.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2025

Experience with Dean and KimKim was incredible. We missed our connecting our flight to Ireland and they were able to contact our hotel to let them know we would flying in the following morning who allowed us to shower/freshen up and east breakfast before we started our our trip.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Sep 03, 2025

Hi Karyn

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re really glad we could step in and help when your travel plans hit a bump. Travel delays can be stressful, so it’s great to hear that you felt supported and were able to start your trip refreshed and ready to enjoy Ireland.

We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, and it means a lot to know our efforts made a difference. If you ever plan another adventure, we’d love to help make it just as smooth and memorable.

Wishing you all the best on your future travels!

Warm regards,

Dean

Ireland Was Amazing!
Ireland | Aug 24 - Aug 30, 2025

M
Matt C.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2025

The trip was really amazing. We found some added adventures that I think you need to add to your list, but all in all - very satisfied. Avondale Forrest Experience and a drive through Black Valley near Killarney were the highlights of the things that we added.
The fishing trip was not what I expected. Guy was nice, but we fished basically in town and never had a bite in 6 hours that we casted over and over again. Had hoped to at least see some scenery.
Still could not have planned a better trip!

Thanks,
Matt

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Sep 01, 2025
Hi Matt, Thank you for taking the time to write a review of your trip. I'm really glad to hear the experience was amazing overall—and it sounds like you uncovered a couple of real gems! I'll definitely add the Avondale Forest Experience and the drive through Black Valley near Killarney to the list. Those are fantastic additions. That area has such hidden beauty, and Black Valley especially is one of those special places that many people miss unless they know to look for it. I'm sorry to... Read more

Hi Matt,

Thank you for taking the time to write a review of your trip.

I'm really glad to hear the experience was amazing overall—and it sounds like you uncovered a couple of real gems! I'll definitely add the Avondale Forest Experience and the drive through Black Valley near Killarney to the list. Those are fantastic additions. That area has such hidden beauty, and Black Valley especially is one of those special places that many people miss unless they know to look for it.

I'm sorry to hear the fishing trip didn’t meet your expectations. I’ll be sure to pass your feedback along to the tour company—we really value honest insights like this, as they help us ensure future experiences are as rewarding as possible.

Thanks again for the great feedback—it truly helps. And if you have any photos or more details you’d like to share from the new spots, I’d love to see them!

Best regards,

Dean

Wonderful Father/Son trip to Ireland!
Ireland | Jul 27 - Aug 2, 2025

Brian
Brian C.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Aug 06, 2025
So happy with our experience in Ireland! With so many potential options and itineraries it was so helpful to have local recommendations and options to consider. I even threw a curveball when I wanted to focus our trip in the west but adjusted my trip to catch the All Ireland final in Dublin, but the itinerary was adjusted to make it happen. Definitely recommend Achill Island and a hike in Connemara National Park! Locations of all our lodging were great and the local guide’s phone app provided... Read more

So happy with our experience in Ireland! With so many potential options and itineraries it was so helpful to have local recommendations and options to consider. I even threw a curveball when I wanted to focus our trip in the west but adjusted my trip to catch the All Ireland final in Dublin, but the itinerary was adjusted to make it happen. Definitely recommend Achill Island and a hike in Connemara National Park! Locations of all our lodging were great and the local guide’s phone app provided many options to visit with driving directions and access to bookings, making getting around so much easier. Finally, Nenad checked in with me regularly to see if there were any questions or challenges so I knew I could always get support when I needed. I’d recommend the experience to anyone!

Hotel Reviews
The Galmont Hotel & Spa
Galway

The Galmont Hotel & Spa had a fabulous location and was great for our itinerary in Galway. However, it was quite loud at night due to a live music pub nearby. Though we couldn't enjoy the pub since my son was underage, we could hear the music just fine in our room. Despite the noise, the hotel itself was decent, and the staff were very accommodating.

Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin

The Ashling Hotel Dublin was our top pick during the trip. Its location was outstanding, being near a major transportation hub which was perfect for our travel needs. The breakfast was great, the beds were exceptionally comfortable, and the staff was very welcoming and attentive. Overall, we had a fantastic experience here.

Activity Review
Explore Achill Island
Explore Achill Island
Ireland

Exploring Achill Island was an unexpected delight! I didn't know much about it beforehand, but it quickly became one of our favorites. The island's beauty was breathtaking, and I wish we had more time to spend there. It's a spot I'd highly recommend to anyone visiting that area.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Aug 08, 2025
Hi Brian Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great experience in Ireland and that the itinerary worked well—even with the last-minute pivot to catch the All-Ireland Final (what a great way to experience the local culture!). Achill Island and Connemara National Park are truly special places, and we’re so glad they stood out as highlights for you. It’s also great to hear that the app and lodging locations helped make your... Read more

Hi Brian

Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great experience in Ireland and that the itinerary worked well—even with the last-minute pivot to catch the All-Ireland Final (what a great way to experience the local culture!).

Achill Island and Connemara National Park are truly special places, and we’re so glad they stood out as highlights for you. It’s also great to hear that the app and lodging locations helped make your travels smooth and enjoyable.

Nenad will be especially happy to hear your feedback—he’s always dedicated to making sure travelers feel supported throughout their journey.

Thank you again for recommending us—we’d love to help you explore even more of Ireland (or beyond!) in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Stop the endless research & planning, use Kim Kim
Ireland | Jun 6 - Jun 19, 2025

Wendyjean
Wendyjean B.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2025
We had an effortless 2 weeks in Ireland and did the whole Isle with the help of Kim Kim and local agent (Ireland Walk, Hike, Bike) Joe. Joe listened to our needs of having a mix of 3-4 star places with some unique nice properties blended in. The things to do they suggest in each location were wonderful. Literally, the only thing we did not find very good was ‘EPIC’ tour in Dublin.
We made so many wonderful memories with the suggested routes they provided, everywhere we stayed was nice...
Read more

We had an effortless 2 weeks in Ireland and did the whole Isle with the help of Kim Kim and local agent (Ireland Walk, Hike, Bike) Joe. Joe listened to our needs of having a mix of 3-4 star places with some unique nice properties blended in. The things to do they suggest in each location were wonderful. Literally, the only thing we did not find very good was ‘EPIC’ tour in Dublin.
We made so many wonderful memories with the suggested routes they provided, everywhere we stayed was nice and included breakfast. They provide dinner, cafes, and places to see.
For someone who usually plans every vacation, this was complicated since we only stayed a few places 2 nights and most were 1 night. So I appreciated turning over the planning. I was apprehensive, but once we were a few days in and the recommendations and tickets to things were seamless - I realized the great value of using Kim Kim. I highly recommend!!

Hotel Reviews
Lahinch Coast Hotel
Dough, Lahinch, Co. Clare

Service was very good, this is a hotel that has been extended over the years so the walk to the room was long. Breakfast was good. The location was EXCELLENT. Room was clean, nothing special, for US was more like Choice Hotel with better staff and convenient location. Since it is a very small town this is probably the best place in the area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Galmont Hotel & Spa
Galway

Good clean hotel with convenient location. Breakfast was also good.

Authenticity & Character
more modern hotel, not that much character.
Location
12 min walk to main historic area
Staff
Service was only OK, not a 'warm' greeting like other locations.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mount Juliet Estate
Thomastown

Beautiful estate location. Sadly, on 6/18/25 when we were there the Grill restaurant was closed and no piano playing which was a shame. Hotel had AC which was nice. Beautiful original estate and conference center

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyatt Hotel Westport
Westport

very convenient to downtown. Overall a good rating. Breakfast was good each day.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lough Eske Castle Hotel

Great castle and hotel. We were upgraded to suite and it was wonderful. We had cocktails at bar which were very good. We had dinner at Cedars which was good but not as great as we wanted. Waiter forgot our cocktails and served them after our appetizers with no apology. The appetizers were fair, entrees were good - the feathered beef was the standout dish. The rum soaked sponge was standout dessert. It was a menu where there are standout/excellent dishes but other dishes were not as strong. I had to tell the waiter to ‘tell kitchen to hold firing our entrees until we finish our cocktails’. I shouldn’t have had to do that.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Gerald, Geraldine were standouts
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Derry

Loved this hotel! No AC but had fans in the room. Offered water in the rooms. Service was outstanding. Breakfast was also very good. Charming hotel and great service

Authenticity & Character
Charming
Location
Right in the heart of the walled city
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Malone Hotel
Belfast

We had room on top floor and it was a very good and clean room but sweltering hot. We found out at check out that we could have requested a fan. I suggest a lower floor room If you stay here. The restaurant breakfast was terrible, our least favorite of the trip. We also had dinner here and it also was only fair. They mainly were catering a meal and told us kitchen was backed up 20 minutes.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin

Very good hotel, a bit of a walk to downtown but easy on light rail. Excellent breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Excellent service and property, appreciate water bottle refill
Location
Easy access to tram, wish it was a tad closer to downtown area
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jun 26, 2025
Hi Wendy Jean Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a memorable and seamless experience exploring Ireland with us. It was a pleasure working with you to create a trip that matched your preferences, blending comfort with unique local charm. We’re especially glad to know that the suggested routes, accommodations, and activities helped you relax and enjoy the journey—particularly as someone who usually takes the lead in planning. Your... Read more

Hi Wendy Jean

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a memorable and seamless experience exploring Ireland with us. It was a pleasure working with you to create a trip that matched your preferences, blending comfort with unique local charm.

We’re especially glad to know that the suggested routes, accommodations, and activities helped you relax and enjoy the journey—particularly as someone who usually takes the lead in planning. Your feedback about the EPIC tour is appreciated and will be shared with our team for future improvements.

On behalf of Joe and all of us here at Ireland Walk Hike Bike, thank you again for choosing us as part of your adventure. We’d love to welcome you back to Ireland anytime!

Kind Regards

Dean