Wayne Mullane, hillwalker & author

Wayne and friends on the summit of  Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.

 “The countryside is my best friend”

Wayne Mullane started hillwalking five years ago and has been so inspired by the mental physical benefits that he's now written his first book Adventure Dayze.

“Back in 2016, my friends and I took up hiking as a hobby merely to keep fit. Soon, though, it was clear to us that the fresh air along with the uncomplicated and majestic views benefited us more than physically. What then became a healthy addiction forged stronger bonds between us as we engaged in rural therapy.

“Since then, we've tackled the highest points of Britain and Ireland, with a whole host of other mountains and hills in-between, especially in our home county of Berkshire. This year sees the turn of Slieve Donard, the tallest mountain of Northern Ireland.

“To be out in the open and to achieve the goals we set does wonders for heart and soul. Plus, when nature's soundtrack and exhilarating views are thrown in for free, I'm in a state of rapture.

“Hiking has also been great for me tackling a fear of heights (acrophobia) and a dodgy sense of direction too. Sure, I can still find myself cascading in sweat wondering where I am as I'm attempting to bag another peak, but I'm loving every minute of where I'm at.

“Using my own experiences, my first book, Adventure Dayze, was written to encourage the reader to reap the benefits of being outdoors, and, if necessary, overcome their own limitations to enhance their adventures. I wanted to share with everybody that embracing the countryside can provide not only an escape from, but also a means of dealing with the rigours of life.

“The countryside is my best friend. It doesn't judge me, only supports me. I've grown to be a more patient person who is more enthused to take on new experiences and challenge myself – as a recent kayaking holiday in Rutland will testify. Exploring mountains and hills has given me a more positive outlook in life. I'm constantly looking to the next adventure, knowing it'll nurture me in some way.

“Whether I'm sitting still on a rocky outcrop watching the sun disappear behind the mountains, or trying to steady myself on some county top, I know one thing: I'm alive and loving that moment.

“If there's a little gem of a pub along the way... well, that's a bonus too. As long as I can find my way there!”

Adventure Dayze is available at Amazon.

Follow Wayne’s adventures at: www.waynemullane.wordpress.com