I’m from a farm in Kilkenny, Ireland, where I live and work with my three dogs and two cats. I love adventure, whether it’s taking a different road to work or exploring a new country.
I discovered my passion for motorcycles through my partner, Andy. When we met, I was riding a plain old bicycle to work. One day, he invited me to take a spin as a pillion on his loud sports bike. That 500-metre journey was all it took—I was ready for my own engine and two wheels. A swift dig in the ribs and one corner later, I was already researching my first motorcycle.
Within a week of passing my full test, I was riding my own sports bike on the Silverstone National Circuit with Cal Crutchlow’s dad. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to ride all over Europe. I’ve taken a solo tour around the beautiful and spectacular NC500, climbing waterfalls along the way. I’ve navigated long detours on French motorways, wondering when the next sign would appear, and followed my TomTom up gravel paths, only to decide that the stunning view made the U-turn worth it.
I’ve been lucky to ride many different bikes, from a Honda CBR125 to BB8, my BMW GS 1200 Rally (bike number seven). I currently ride a Yamaha Tenere 700, affectionately called Bluey.
One of my first bike trips was bringing my lovely Triumph 675 from the south of England to my family home in Ireland. It was such fun to ride a bike through the country roads I had only ever driven by car and to witness the subtle changes in landscape and scenery. I was hooked on the daring roads. At local bike meets, I began to unravel the intricate and ever-changing world of motorcycles, from the textiles to the bikes themselves.
I joined Magellan on a beautiful Spanish trip. We toured churches, rode some wonderful bikes, and sat around the table discussing our successes and the areas where we could improve—both bike and life-related. I love meeting people, listening to their stories, and sharing my enthusiasm for the beautiful Emerald Isle. Riding a motorcycle gives me a wonderful opportunity to witness the ever-changing landscape, explore new roads, and meet both people and animals along the way.
I’ve ridden my bike on the sands of the African desert, up the foggy and icy mountains of Switzerland, and through the plains and heat of France. The destinations may be the same, but the journeys are always different.
Growing up on the farm in Ireland, I enjoyed cycling, but with all the hills around home, I often preferred walking. I love to vary the terrain, with road, forest, or track always available, giving me plenty to explore. Getting off the farm has always been an adventure, as we love to pack in as many activities as we can, racing against daylight and chores. Our family trips to County Kerry were always full of mystery and intrigue, from early-morning fishing to sheep-shearing competitions.
I am a qualified nurse, specialising in intensive care, and have been for over ten years. I love seeing the jaws drop when I tell people about my motorcycle adventures across Europe. I originally came to Magellan for the travel knowledge—the roads and hotels—but I stay for the friendships. I’ve met so many wonderful people and shared so many beautiful vistas and roads.
Check out Teresa's three favourite trips