Aoife O'Sullivan

14 Years of Making Nature Accessible

Aoife's journey into accessible outdoor tourism began in 2010 when her father experienced mobility challenges following a stroke. That single moment sparked a mission that's now helped thousands of older adults safely discover Ireland's natural heritage.

She spent three years conducting fieldwork across Connacht, Leinster, and Munster, personally testing trails and documenting accessibility features with her team. It wasn't just about measuring slopes or counting benches — Aoife actually walked these paths with older visitors, listening to what worked and what didn't. That hands-on approach became her trademark.

Her breakthrough came in 2015 when her comprehensive guide to Phoenix Park's accessible routes was adopted by the Office of Public Works. That led to real changes — improved signage, better waymarking, and a model that other parks started copying. Since joining tomkins-commercial Ltd in 2019, she's become the leading voice on senior-friendly outdoor experiences in Ireland, collaborating directly with local authorities and conservation bodies.

Her approach combines rigorous on-ground assessment with genuine conversations with older walkers. She captures both the technical details and the emotional rewards of connecting with nature.