Fans are calling it a spiritual experience.

But you don’t have to be religious to enjoy a popular guided early morning hike to the Tobar Bearcháin holy well in Castlehaven.

Local tour guides Celine and Conor Ó Buachalla, the husband and wife duo behind the Cork eco-adventure company Gormú, are leading brave adventurers on a dawn hike to the historic spot, along a 1,500-year-old pilgrim’s path, finishing with a refreshing dip or swim in West Cork’s serene waters.

The icing on the cake? Your €60 ticket includes a hot breakfast with porridge, tea, and coffee to warm you up when you emerge (teeth chattering) from the water.

Oh, and as many fascinating stories of saints and sinners as you can fit into 90 minutes.

The group welcomes everyone, regardless of faith, and the Ó Buachallas report that many find this early trek to be a deeply moving experience.

“This unique journey began as the sun started to peak over the horizon, bathing the West Cork coastline in hues of pink and gold. The peace and tranquility of the early morning made the pilgrimage feel all the more sacred.” said one delighted hiker.

“Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters at Castlehaven just after dawn is a sensation I find hard to describe.”

Conor, with his knack for storytelling and an encyclopedic knowledge of the local flora and fauna, brings the landscape to life, while Celine, with her keen eye for detail and a profound respect for the environment, ensures that every adventure leaves no trace.

This is about finding your centre, even if your centre is currently buried under a pile of emails. And frankly, that’s a damn fine reason to lace up your boots.

The Dawn Pilgrimage and Swim in West Cork (7.30am start) is €60 for adults and €25 for children aged over 10 with booking via the Gormú website.