Hi, I’m Iona – blogger, freelance writer and avid adventurer!
I am huge believer that big adventures are accessible to everyone – and I am using this blog to prove it.
Where did I start?
I had never even climbed a mountain in the UK when I signed up to trek to Everest Base Camp for charity. It was an impulse decision that ultimately has led me to my life-long passion: high-altitude adventures.
I have now completed four high altitude treks, climbed countless peaks across the UK and I am working towards my Mountain Leader Award. In September 2020 I completed my first thru-hike adventure, the West Highland Way, and in May 2023 I completed an epic 6-month trek of Te Araroa – a 3,000km trail down the full length of New Zealand! To top it off, I have a long-term goal to complete the Seven Summits.
Big adventures are accessible to everyone.
Reading lots of autobiographies from mega mountaineers and watching countless documentaries, I realised the adventure world is filled with the same type of people: wealthy, privately-educated, climbed-since-they-could-crawl, mostly white, males. Don’t get me wrong: these adventurers are still a huge inspiration. But when you’re not from a wealthy family or you haven’t been born into the adventure world (*puts hand up for both*), it is a daunting prospect wanting to take on these big challenges, when the only people you have to look up to come under the same niche.
I aim to use this blog to document my journey to the big peaks. I am not wealthy (nor from a wealthy background). I wasn’t born into mountaineering. Yet, I’m doing it. I want to prove you don’t have to tick certain boxes to do exciting challenges. From budget kit lists and financial honesty, to technical tips and interviews with adventurers. I want to use this platform to encourage others to enter the big adventure world!
When I’m not up a mountain, you’ll probably find me kayaking in the sea or trying a new crazy idea! Other times I’m drinking gin or aw-ing at dogs around a local park (I love dogs).
I love hearing from fellow adventure-minded folk, so please do say hi!
Want to work with me? I am open to brand collaborations, freelance writing assignments and talks for schools or corporate events.
Happy adventuring! x
Here are a few personal posts I wrote, about how adventure and travel really have affected my life:
How the Himalaya Stole My Heart
My Obsession With Water
How a Trip to Australia Changed My Life