Ballyhouras

The Ballyhoura Mountain Range Region

Adventure Awaits

The Ballyhoura Mountain range is the adventure capital of Ireland with the largest mountain biking trails in the country spanning 52km across the range. Horse riding is another popular activity in this area. The nearby Ballyhass Lakes is home to Ireland’s largest wakeboarding facility. Take part in an array of exhilarating activities including water sports, zip lining, cliff climbing and more. Trailriders Bike Rental/Shop is based at the trailhead of the 92km Ballyhoura Bike Trails in Ardpatrick, Co. Limerick, and Co. Cork. This is an exhilarating experience that any individual, family member or group will enjoy whilst taking in the beautiful natural landscape.

Experience the Wildlife

A visit to the Doneraile Wildlife Park is a must. Explore the endless acres of lush green fields, rivers and wonderful wildlife. Enjoy a tour and tasting in the award-winning Ballyhoura Apple Farm. Make sure to visit the Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll for a memorable experience for all the family. Ballylanders wildlife bog is situated at Griston Bog on the west side of the village. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, bees and insects and different types of water life, some of which are now in danger of extinction in many parts of the world. The bog now boasts impressive purpose Outdoor Classrooms where teachers and classes can explore and learn about nature in unique and inspiring surroundings.

Embrace the Local Heritage

Ballyhoura Heritage & Environment promotes, supports, assists and engages in protecting the countryside and rural recreation environments and safeguarding the natural beauty of the countryside and access to it. Responsible for creating awareness and promoting the historical sites, heritage and culture of the Ballyhoura area. Take a walking tour of the medieval town of Kilmallock Explore the 6,000-year-old megalithic site of Lough Gur, one of Ireland’s most important historical sites. Visit the De Valera Museum and Bruree Heritage Centre which is dedicated to Eamon de Valera, former president of Ireland and one of the country's most famous statesmen, it houses a unique collection of personal belongings of this historic figure, as well as a wide range of articles which record life in Bruree in the early 20th century. This visitor centre is located where Eamonn de Valera grew up. The cottage in which he lived is now preserved and the national school he attended houses a museum dedicated to his memory. Take a step back in time with a visit to Doneraile Court where visitors will discover the stunning centrepiece of one of Ireland’s most beautiful estates. Located on the banks of the Awbeg river in north Co. Cork, the house dates from the 1720s, when it was built by Arthur St. Leger, the first Viscount Doneraile and father of the renowned Lady Freemason