Walking Retreat

Come experience a part of the world in a way you never have before, and discover what that experience brings alive in you.

June 17-24, 2027

Imagine spending your days walking along one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world. Following paths high above the sea, wandering through forests and along secluded beaches, and arriving at extraordinary places on your own two feet.

For eight days, you'll experience Northern Ireland in a way few visitors do, surrounded by the beauty and spirit of the land, moving through it at the pace of your own footsteps.

And as you walk, you'll have the freedom to be completely immersed in the world around you, while discovering just how much there is to experience within yourself.

There will be moments of exhilaration, moments that challenge you, and moments when the beauty is so extraordinary that you simply have to stop and take it all in.

This is your adventure, your opportunity to experience a part of the world—and yourself—in a way you never have before.

Early Bird Pricing Starts at $4,200 per person

Save $200 when you register by January 31, 2027

Find all of the retreat pricing details

The Freedom of Walking Your Own Way

One of the most wonderful parts of this retreat...

is the opportunity to explore on your own, while knowing you're sharing the adventure with a small group of women.

On Most Days...

you'll set out on your walk independently, following beautiful coastal paths and discovering the landscape at your own pace. You can stop whenever something catches your eye, linger somewhere you love, or simply enjoy the pleasure of walking without having to keep up with anyone else.

There will be hills to climb...

miles to cover, and moments when the journey asks a little more of you. This is an active retreat, and part of the adventure is discovering how you respond to those challenges.

We'll stay connected throughout the day...

and there will also be opportunities to walk together. In the mornings and evenings, we'll gather to share our experiences, enjoy local food and hospitality, laugh about the day's adventures, and encourage one another along the way.

It's a beautiful combination...

of independence and companionship, with the freedom to make the experience your own.

I'd like to register!

Is This Retreat for You?

If you love being outdoors, enjoy walking, and feel excited by the idea of exploring Northern Ireland on foot, this retreat may be just what you're looking for!

Our days will be active, with miles of walking along coastal paths, through forests, over hills, and across varied terrain. Some stretches will feel wonderfully easy, while others will ask more of you.

There may be steep climbs, tired legs, and moments when you're very happy to finally take off your walking shoes!

You don't need to be an experienced hiker or in peak physical condition to enjoy this adventure. However, a good level of walking fitness, stamina, and comfort on uneven ground will help you get the most out of the experience.

If you're not quite there yet, that doesn't necessarily mean this retreat isn't for you. With time to prepare, you may be surprised by what you're capable of.

This is a retreat for women who welcome a little challenge along with their adventure, who are curious about what they can experience, and who know that some of life's most extraordinary moments are worth the effort it takes to reach them.

I'd Love to Come!

Your Eight Days Along the Antrim Coast*

June 17 - Day 1 — Welcome to Ballycastle

Your Northern Ireland adventure begins in the seaside town of Ballycastle, with its colorful streets, welcoming pubs, and beautiful views across the sea toward Rathlin Island.

We'll provide information to help you make your way to Ballycastle from your point of arrival.

Once you're here, settle into your accommodations, explore the town, and begin getting acquainted with the women who will share this wonderful adventure.

Overnight in Ballycastle

June 18 - Day 2 — The Enchanted Waterfalls of Glenariff Forest

Optional Walk — Glenariff Forest Park

Walkign details: 8.5 miles of trails with varying levels of elevation

Today we step into an entirely different landscape as we explore Glenariff Forest Park, one of the most beautiful glens in Northern Ireland.

Follow paths and wooden walkways through a lush gorge filled with ferns, moss-covered rocks, and tumbling waterfalls. The sound of rushing water accompanies us as we wind through the forest, crossing bridges and stopping to admire one lovely cascade after another.

With the vibrant greens, fresh forest air, and waterfalls spilling over ancient rock, it feels like stepping into another world.

Overnight in Ballycastle

Count me in!

June 19 - Day 3 — Rathlin Island: Puffins, Lighthouses & Wild Beauty

Walking details: 6–15.5 miles / 10–25 km · 3–6 hours · 590 to 1800ft / 180 to 550 Metres

A short ferry crossing takes us to Rathlin Island, a windswept little island where rugged cliffs, quiet roads, and extraordinary wildlife await.

June is a wonderful time to visit, with thousands of seabirds nesting along the cliffs. We'll have the opportunity to visit the West Light Seabird Centre, where you may spot puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and other birds gathering above the Atlantic.

With several walking routes to choose from, you can shape the day around your own interests and energy.

Take the island bus out to the lighthouse and enjoy the walk back, or set off on a longer exploration of the island's beaches, wildflower meadows, and spectacular coastal views.

There's something especially wonderful about spending a day on an island where nature still sets the pace.

Overnight in Ballycastle

June 20 - Day 4 — Dunseverick Castle to Ballintoy: The Wild Coast & Carrick-a-Rede

Walkign details: 8 miles / 12.5 km · 4–5 hours · 790ft / 240 Metres

Today brings one of our most spectacular coastal walks.

Beginning at the atmospheric ruins of Dunseverick Castle, we'll follow the Causeway Coast Way along rugged headlands, past the tiny fishing hamlet of Portbraddan, and across the sweeping golden sands of White Park Bay.

The scenery changes around every bend: grassy cliffs, turquoise water, dramatic rock formations, and views that seem to stretch forever.

Along the way, we'll discover the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour, tucked among sea stacks and rocky coves.

And then comes one of Northern Ireland's great adventures: crossing the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended high above the Atlantic between the mainland and a tiny island once used by salmon fishermen.

What a day!

Overnight in Ballintoy

June 21 - Day 5 — A Day to Make Your Own in Ballintoy

After our coastal adventures, today is yours.

Perhaps you'll enjoy a leisurely morning with a book and a cup of tea, followed by a walk down to Ballintoy's picturesque little harbour.

Wander among the rocks and tidal pools, watch the fishing boats, and find a beautiful spot to sit beside the sea.

If you're eager for more walking, there are lovely stretches of coastline to explore, including the golden sands of White Park Bay when tides permit.

Or simply spend the day resting, wandering, enjoying the views, and following whatever catches your curiosity.

One of the pleasures of traveling this way is having the freedom to make a day entirely your own.

Overnight in Ballintoy

June 22 - Day 6 — Dunseverick Castle to Bushmills: The Giant's Causeway

Walking detils: 8.5 miles / 13.5 km · 4–5 hours · 1050ft / 320 Metres

Prepare yourself for another extraordinary day along the Causeway Coast.

We return to Dunseverick Castle, this time heading west along some of the most breathtaking cliff-top paths in Northern Ireland. The trail follows the Atlantic coastline, with sweeping views of the sea, towering cliffs, and headlands stretching into the distance.

Eventually, we'll arrive at the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tens of thousands of interlocking basalt columns create one of nature's most fascinating landscapes.

Take your time exploring the stones, listening to the waves, and imagining the ancient legends of the giant Finn McCool.

From here, continue toward the charming village of Bushmills, with a choice of routes including a path alongside the historic Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway.

Overnight in Bushmills

June 23 - Day 7 — Your Choice: Bushmills, Portrush & the Coast

Optional Walk — Bushmills to Portrush

Walking detils: 8.2 miles / 13.2 km (one way) · 4–5 hours · Approximately 430–450ft / 130–140m

Our final full day is yours to enjoy.

Perhaps you'd like to visit the historic Old Bushmills Distillery for a tour and tasting, browse the village shops, or settle into a cozy café.

For those who still have a little adventure in their legs, we'll provide walking directions for an optional coastal walk toward Portrush, passing through Portballintrae and along the stunning White Rocks coastline.

Or you might choose a gentler day, enjoying the village, reflecting on your journey, and savoring these last hours in Northern Ireland.

We'll come together to celebrate the miles we've walked, the experiences we've shared, and all that this adventure has brought into our lives.

Overnight in Bushmills

June 24 - Day 8 — Farewell, Northern Ireland

After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the Antrim Coast and begin our onward journeys from Bushmills.

Eight days of extraordinary landscapes, adventure, discoveries, and new friendships.

And perhaps a few new things you've discovered about yourself along the way.

*Itinerary subject to minor changes

What does this retreat cost?

The Gift of Walking Alone

For hours, it's just you, the path beneath your feet...

the beauty of the Irish coast surrounding you, and the freedom to be completely in your own company.

As you walk, you'll have the freedom to find your own pace, stop when something captures your attention, and spend time with your thoughts without the usual distractions of everyday life.

You may find yourself thinking about things you haven't considered in years, singing as you walk, or becoming so absorbed in the landscape that everything else seems to fall away. You might discover how much you enjoy your own company, or find that being alone with your thoughts is more challenging than you expected.

Your body becomes part of the adventure. Your legs carry you up the hills, your lungs fill with fresh sea air, and every mile brings another opportunity to appreciate what your body can do.

Each day brings the opportunity to experience yourself a little differently, with no one else's pace, expectations, or experience to measure yourself against.

And at the end of the day, you'll return to the companionship of women who have been having their own adventures, with stories to share and experiences to celebrate.

What's Included

7 nights of accommodations in welcoming local B&Bs along Northern Ireland's beautiful Antrim Coast, with shared or private rooms according to your booking.
Daily breakfast and 6 lunches, provided as a meal or a €20 lunch stipend. Lunches are not included on our free days.
Prearranged transportation along our itinerary, including transfers to walking locations and planned group activities.
Luggage transfers between accommodations, so you can enjoy your walks with just your daypack.
Detailed walking itineraries, maps, and route information to help you confidently explore at your own pace.
Admission to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, one of the most exhilarating experiences along the Antrim Coast!
At least 4 pre-retreat gatherings to get acquainted, prepare for the adventure, answer practical questions, and enjoy some coaching, laughter, and connection before we arrive.
Gratuities for our arranged retreat services, already included in your price.
Thoughtful retreat facilitation from Jennifer — bringing reflection, curiosity, and shared discoveries into our days together, and helping you explore what this adventure is bringing alive in you.

And, of course, a small group of women sharing eight days of adventure along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.

What's NOT Included

Airfare to and from Northern Ireland.
Transportation to Ballycastle, where our retreat begins, and from Bushmills, where our journey ends.*
Dinners throughout the retreat.
Meals and activities on free days, giving you the freedom to explore at your leisure.
Admission to the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre (visiting the natural rock formations is free).
Travel insurance, which is required.
Personal expenses, including additional snacks, drinks, shopping, and souvenirs.
Optional activities or admission fees not specifically included in the retreat itinerary.
Additional accommodations before or after the retreat.
Passport fees and any required travel authorizations.

Jennifer can provide information to help you plan their arrival in Ballycastle and departure from Bushmills, even though those journeys are at your own expense.

Our Cancellation Policy

Hi, I'm Jennifer, and I'll be your guide.

Walking has been such an important part of my life. It's helped me move through heartbreak, reclaim joy, and find my way forward during times when I had no idea what came next.

I've come to really love spending hours in my own company, following a path and seeing where it takes me.

But oh, Northern Ireland! I wish I could adequately describe how I feel when I'm walking along this coast. The beauty absolutely takes my breath away. I've stood on those cliffs, looking out at the sea, feeling almost overwhelmed with gratitude that I get to be there. That I get to walk these paths and experience such an extraordinary part of the world.

And I love sharing it with other women.

One of my favorite things about leading this retreat is seeing how differently each woman experiences the adventure. We can walk the same paths, take in the same magnificent views, and each come away with something entirely our own.

I created She Who Walks the Edge because I believe experiences like these are worth making room for in our lives. The beauty, the challenge, the freedom, the exhilaration of discovering what we're capable of.

I'd love to share this adventure with you.

Jennifer

Please reach us at jennifer@spiralpathjourneys.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is the fitness level required for this retreat?

This is an active walking retreat, and you'll want to arrive feeling comfortable spending several hours a day on your feet.

Our walks may cover approximately 8–12 miles a day, taking us along coastal paths, through forests, over hills, and across varied terrain. Some stretches will be fairly easy, while others will be more challenging, including steep climbs and uneven ground.

You don't need to be an experienced hiker or in peak physical condition, but you should have good walking fitness and stamina. If you already enjoy regular walks or hikes, that's a great start!

And if you're excited about joining us but aren't quite at that level yet, there's time to prepare! I encourage you to begin building your walking distance and comfort with hills well before the retreat.

2027 walking distances and elevation changes will be confirmed when the routes are finalized.

Will I really be walking on my own?

You are very welcome!

You don't need previous solo travel experience to join us. What matters most is that you're excited about the adventure, comfortable with the physical demands, and willing to spend time exploring independently.

I'll provide information before the retreat to help you prepare, and you'll be sharing the experience with a small group of women who are each having their own adventure.

You may find that walking independently becomes one of your favorite parts of the journey!

What happens if I can't complete a day's walk?

Some days will be more challenging than others, and I understand that even well-prepared walkers can have days when their energy or abilities vary.

We'll discuss the routes and expectations before the retreat so you can make an informed decision about participating.

Options for shortening or skipping a walk will depend on the location and available transportation, and alternatives may not be possible on every route.

Your safety and well-being are important, and I encourage you to communicate with me if you're having difficulty.

What kind of hiking gear will I need?

You'll want comfortable, waterproof walking boots or shoes that you've already worn on longer walks, along with weather-appropriate clothing, a waterproof jacket, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle.

Trekking poles may also be helpful, particularly on hills and uneven terrain.

I'll send you a detailed packing list before the retreat, along with suggestions to help you prepare for walking in Northern Ireland's wonderfully changeable weather.

Which dietary restrictions can be accommodated?

I'll do my best to accommodate dietary needs wherever possible.

Because we'll be staying in small villages and enjoying meals at local B&Bs and restaurants, some dietary requirements may be more difficult to accommodate. Gluten-free options are often available, although I can't guarantee that every location will be able to meet every need.

If you have specific dietary requirements or food allergies, please contact me before registering so we can discuss what's possible.

What accommodations will we stay in?

We'll stay in welcoming local B&Bs and guesthouses along our route, giving us the opportunity to enjoy Northern Ireland's wonderful hospitality.

Accommodations are generally shared, with two women per room. Single rooms may be available for an additional fee, depending on availability.

I'll share more details about our 2027 accommodations as arrangements are finalized.

Will there be free time to explore on our own?

Absolutely! In addition to the independent walking, there will be opportunities to explore the villages where we're staying, visit local shops and cafés, relax, or simply enjoy some time to yourself.

We'll also have designated personal time built into the itinerary, giving you the freedom to choose how you'd like to spend it.

The exact schedule will be shared when the 2027 itinerary is finalized.

When should I arrive in Northern Ireland

I recommend arriving in Ireland or Northern Ireland at least one or two days before the retreat begins, especially if you're traveling from overseas.

This gives you time to recover from jet lag, settle in, and perhaps enjoy a little exploring before we begin walking.

There are so many beautiful places and if your schedule allows, you might enjoy extending your trip to explore more of Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.

What transportation is included?

Our retreat begins in Ballycastle, where we'll begin walking the Antrim Coast.

You'll be responsible for arranging your own travel to Ballycastle, and airport transfers are not included.

Additional transportation details will be provided with the finalized 2027 itinerary.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. Travel insurance with appropriate medical coverage is required for all participants.

Your policy should cover the walking activities planned for the retreat, as well as emergency medical care and any necessary evacuation or repatriation.

I also strongly recommend considering trip cancellation coverage, including a Cancel For Any Reason option if available and appropriate for your circumstances.

What is the cancellation policy?

Booking fees associated with payment plans are non-refundable.

Under our existing policy, cancellations made after the balance has been paid and at least 90 days before the retreat receive a 50% refund. No refunds are available for cancellations made within 90 days of the retreat's start date.

Please review the complete cancellation policy before registering, as it contains the full terms and conditions.

The final 2027 booking and cancellation terms will be published when registration opens.

Still have questions?

I'd be happy to hear from you! Please email me at jennifer@spiralpathjourneys.com, and we can talk about whether this adventure is a good fit for you.

Booking & Cancellation Policy

We understand that sometimes plans change. Please read the following terms carefully before registering for She Who Walks the Edge, June 17–24, 2027.

Book Fee and Final Payment:

A $700 non-refundable booking fee is required to reserve your place. This amount is applied toward your total retreat price.

The remaining balance must be paid in full by March 19, 2027, 90 days before the retreat begins.

For registrations made after March 19, 2027, payment in full is required at booking.

If you need to cancel:

All cancellations must be submitted in writing to jennifer@spiralpathjourneys.com. Your cancellation date is the date we receive your email.

On or before March 19, 2027 (90 days or more before the retreat): Your $700 booking fee is non-refundable. Any additional payments you've made will be refunded.
Beginning March 20, 2027 (less than 90 days before the retreat): All retreat payments are non-refundable.

No refunds are available for late arrivals, missed activities, early departures, or unused portions of the retreat.

Transferring Your Place to Anotehr Woman:

If you're unable to attend and find someone who would love to take your place, please contact us.

A replacement participant must be approved by Spiral Path Journeys, complete the registration requirements, and accept the retreat terms. Transfers depend on whether our accommodation and other arrangements can accommodate the change.

If a replacement is approved and completes payment for the booking:

We'll refund the original participant's payments, excluding the $700 booking fee.
The original $700 booking fee will be credited toward the replacement participant's retreat price and will remain non-refundable.

This replacement arrangement may be considered even within 90 days of the retreat, but it cannot be guaranteed.

Travel insurance, including medical, is REQUIRED:

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you register.

Please consider coverage for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, medical evacuation, travel disruptions, and walking activities.

You may also wish to explore Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, which can provide partial reimbursement for cancellations that aren't covered by standard travel insurance. This type of coverage usually needs to be purchased shortly after your initial retreat payment, so it's worth investigating early.

Each participant is responsible for arranging her own insurance and international travel.

If Spiral Path Journeys Cancels the Retreat:

We reserve the right to cancel the retreat if minimum enrollment requirements aren't met, circumstances beyond our reasonable control prevent the retreat from taking place, or exceptional circumstances make it impossible to offer the retreat as planned.

Such circumstances may include severe weather, natural disasters, government restrictions, major travel disruptions, or other events beyond our reasonable control.

Should we need to cancel the retreat, we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible.

You may choose either:

A full refund of all payments made to Spiral Path Journeys, including your booking fee, or
A credit for the full amount paid toward a future Spiral Path Journeys retreat.

Spiral Path Journeys is not responsible for expenses paid to other providers in preparation for your trip, including airfare, additional accommodation, transportation, insurance, lost earnings, or other personal expenses, except where applicable law requires otherwise.

A LIttle Thank You for Reading All the Way Through:

Did you actually read this far before registering? I love that!

As a little thank-you, I'd like to offer you an additional $100 off your retreat price.

Click here to send me a note BEFORE submitting the initial registration questionaire, and I'll make sure your discount is applied!

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What Women Are Saying About Spiral Path Journeys Retreats

An inspiring experience connecting within, with the landscape, and each other. The retreat came at just the right time. Beautifully led, I am so happy to have made the journey. ~Emily W, MI

I love Jennifer. I find her warm, inviting, and humorous. I feel seen when I'm with Jennifer. She really listens and her attention is focused on me when I talk. ~ Lorry G, NM

I've loved each retreat I've gone on with Spiral Path Journeys and am excited about having yet another opportunity. ~ Jackie S, AK

The location was incredible, and the experience I had really reminded me that there is no coincidence, and this retreat was divinely and perfectly orchestrated. ~ Emily V, NM

“Challenging in a good way, exceptionally beautiful. Ireland did have her way with me, unsettling as the sea and as magnificent. ”