Adventure Activities

Jonathan Griffin ("Jono") has over 20 years’ experience in the outdoor and education sectors. He is a graduate of Sports, Exercise and Leisure, a Level 2 accredited Surf and SUP Coach, a fully qualified lifeguard, and an Instructor Developer with Irish Surfing, where he  delivers the national Surf Coach Curriculum. A firm believer and pioneer of a people-centered coaching model, Jono places individual growth and  meaningful connection at the heart of his approach.

Over the past 17 years, Jono has organized eight fundraising treks to the Himalayas, leading more than 100 people to Everest Base Camp and raising over €150,000 for various charities. A natural team leader, Jono continues to visit Nepal regularly and treasures working alongside local trekking guides who are now lifelong friends. 

In 2021, Jono returned home to Donegal and founded Wild and Free Adventure Company www.wildandfree.ie specializing in off-the-beaten-track adventures along the stunning Sliabh Liag Peninsula in South Donegal. While the ocean is his first love, the mountains are a close second. 

Wild and Free provides everything our guests at the Cottage at Glenmaire could possibly need. From fitted wetsuits, to single and group giant paddleboards and surfboards, nothing has been overlooked to bring you truly an adventure experience of a lifetime.