Episode 88: Sheelagh Daly

Bike Touring Solo Aross Europe and Beyond.

Sheelagh’s journey started with a deep love for theatre and acting. Her passion eventually led her to endurance sports when, at 18, she began training for triathlons which helped Sheelagh prove to herself her own physical capabilities. After successfully completing an Iron Man Sheelagh started to think about travelling again – and this is what ignited her interest in bike touring.

The Dream of a Solo Bike Tour

Sheelagh had long dreamed of a solo bike tour across Europe. Using her 30th birthday as a motivator, she decided to turn her dream into a reality. Cobbling together both secondhand and borrowed gear, she meticulously planned her route, starting from Edinburgh, Scotland, a place where she could discover her family heritage and ‘ease her way in to the tour’.

Facing Fears and Building Confidence

Sheeagh talked about the initial fear she felt at the start of her journey. She even visited family members beforehand, fearing she may not actually survive the trip! She knew that this adventure may lead her to be overwhelmed, and to deal with this she allowed herself the option to quit if necessary, Sheelagh eased her fears and continued her adventure. One significant confidence booster was conquering the Bealach na Bà climb in Scotland, known for its challenging gradients. Being able to ride up and down this huge climb really gave her a sense of her own strength and capabilities which served her well for the rest of the adventure.

Highlights from Across Europe

Throughout her journey, Sheelagh experienced countless memorable moments and met many fellow adventurers. She rode with locals in Brussels, explored the backroads of Croatia, and was continually amazed by the kindness of strangers. In Croatia, a family invited her to stay in their guest room, highlighting the generosity she encountered along her route.

Adapting and Exploring Further

After the pandemic, Sheelagh integrated her love for cycling into her daily life by working at a bike shop and guiding bike tours. These roles not only expanded her mechanical knowledge but also allowed her to share her passion with others.

The Joy of Bike Travel

Sheelagh’s reflections on bike travel show her appreciation for this unique mode of exploration. Cycling allowed her to discover hidden gems and experience serene moments away from tourist hotspots. The varied landscapes and cultural connections enriched her journey and deepened her love for bike travel.

Future Plans

Looking forward, Sheelagh hopes to continue her adventures, including returning to Southeast Asia—an area she briefly explored as a bike tour guide. She remains driven by the belief that bike travel provides incredible, unplanned experiences and personal growth.

Follow Sheelagh’s Journey

Keep up with Sheelagh’s adventures and gain valuable tips on bike touring through her YouTube channel and Instagram.

Conclusion

Sheelagh’s bike travels highlight the benefits of facing challenges, fostering personal growth, and enjoying new experiences found on two wheels. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, the best way to discover what we’re capable of is to start pedalling.

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