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Straddling the border between Limerick and Cork, the Ballyhoura region is developing a name for itself as one of Ireland’s best outdoor adventure hubs. This incredible area is home to Ireland’s highest inland mountains, Ireland’s most extensive mountain bike trail network, and one of Ireland’s premier outdoor activity centres—not to mention incredible cave systems, epic swim spots, and so much more. Here’s a round-up of some of our favourite things to do in the Ballyhoura region.
Wakeboarding at Ballyhass
Ballyhass Adventure Centre, located in the heart of County Cork, is a must-visit for wakeboarding enthusiasts of all levels. Set on a stunning freshwater lake, Ballyhass offers a state-of-the-art cable wakeboarding system, perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike.
We had never tried wakeboarding before but were instantly put at ease by the expert instructors on hand, and we were pleasantly surprised by how quickly we managed to get to our feet and get the hang of it. Ten minutes in, we were even giving a few simple tricks a go as we glided up and down the cable. Admittedly, not quite to the standards of the seasoned pros around us, who were showing off with jumps and tricks, making their time on the cable look completely effortless.
The centre provides all necessary equipment, including boards, wetsuits, and helmets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Wakeboarding at Ballyhass combines the thrill of gliding across the lake with the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape.
Ideal for individuals, families, and groups, Ballyhass Adventure Centre offers an action-packed day out with plenty of other activities available, including kayaking, climbing, ziplining, and even axe throwing. You can even stay over in one of their bunkhouses. The perfect place to base yourself for an adventurous few days!
The Galtee Crossing
If you are looking for a big mountain adventure, then we highly recommend the famous Galtee Crossing route. Not for the faint of heart, this epic 32km route climbs over 1,700m while it traverses Ireland’s highest inland mountain range. Summiting Galtymore, which stands at 919 meters, is just one of many summits you will bag on this bucket list route.
This point-to-point route runs west to east (or east to west!) from Anglesborough to Cahir and touches 14 mountains, including four of Ireland’s 25 highest peaks. Almost the entire route is off-trail, meaning good navigational skills, outdoor knowledge, and outdoor gear are all essential.
There are two events every year that take on this epic route: a hiking challenge organised by the Galtee Walking Club and a mountain running race organised by the Irish Mountain Running Association. We recommend taking on this challenge as part of one of these events and during the summer months.
Ballyhoura Mountain Biking
The Ballyhoura Mountain Biking Trails, located in the Ballyhoura Mountains, are Ireland’s largest and most exhilarating network of purpose-built trails. With almost 100km of trails, they cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The trails wind through stunning forest landscapes, taking in rugged hills, flowing descents, and thrilling technical sections.
The network includes five looped routes of varying lengths, from the gentle 6km Greenwood Loop to the challenging 50km Castlepook Loop. We opted for a relaxed 8km blue route, which offered amazing views and even a waterfall along the way. Each trail is well-marked and maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.
These trails really are equipped for all levels of riders—you might even spot professional downhill mountain biker Oisín O’Callaghan bombing down the mountain as he regularly heads out for a spin when he’s not racing around the globe at World Cup events.
Trailriders is located in the car park at the trailhead and offers everything you need for a fun day out. Find out more here.
Hike Seefin Mountain
Climbed the highest point in the Ballyhouras. This moderate hike leads to the summit of Seefin Mountain, this trail offers incredible panoramic views of the Ballyhoura region. Standing at 510m above sea level and being relatively exposed, this route certainly requires a spare layer and a waterproof shell. Good quality shoes are advisable, as the trail can be quite rough and muddy in places. But fear not—your effort will be rewarded along the way with spectacular views.
The entire hike is on the trail so navigation knowledge is not needed. Park at Ballyhoura Forest Recreational Area for access to toilet and shower facilities and to enjoy a post-hike coffee or snack at Ballyhoura Trailriders.
Mitchelstown Caves
Mitchelstown Caves, located near Burncourt in Co. Tipperary, are one of Ireland’s most impressive natural wonders and provide an ideal activity on a rainy day. Accidentally discovered in 1833 by a local farmer, these spectacular limestone caves stretch over 3 kilometres, featuring vast caverns, intricate passageways, and stunning formations. Guided tours take visitors deep underground, showcasing impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and calcite curtains that have formed over thousands of years.
The caves’ highlight is the awe-inspiring Tower of Babel, a massive 9-meter-tall column formed by mineral-rich water dripping over centuries. Visitors can also enjoy the remarkable acoustics of the largest cavern, which has been used for musical performances.
Ballyhoura Way Thru Hike
The Ballyhoura Way is one of Ireland’s most diverse National Waymarked Trails. It offers an enguagaing mix of rugged terrain, historic landmarks, and scenic villages. The 89km trail stretches across various landscapes, taking you along remote forest paths, past ancient sites, and into picturesque villages.
Starting in the town of Tipperary and finishing in the village of Johnsbridge. Select a small section of the trail to hike in one day or take on the full adventure.
For those up for the challenge of completing the entire route in one go, consider breaking up your journey with stops at well-placed accommodations like Glen of Aherlow Camping or Ballyhoura Mountain Lodges—both offering a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. This rewarding 89km trail should definitely be on your bucket list!
Lazy Dog Shooting
Set in the scenic Ballyhoura countryside, Lazy Dog Shooting offers an exciting day out for anyone over 14 years of age. This clay target shooting range provides visitors the opportunity to test their aim with tailored packages to suit the experience you are after. All packages come with coaching by a qualified instructor and a safety briefing. Their “Have A Go” package is perfect for first-timers who want to try their hand at hitting the target!
During the winter, Lazy Dog Shooting offers their “Shooting Under The Lights” experience. This floodlit shooting session is ideal for our short winter days.
Ballyhass Saunas
A hot sauna is the perfect way to relax after a long day of outdoor adventures, and the setup at Ballyhass is brilliant thanks to its proximity to the frigid waters of Ballyhass Lake, allowing you to go from hot to cold with ease.
You should allow at least half a day at Ballyhass. Offering a range of activities from wakeboarding to rock climbing, axe throwing, kayaking, and everything in between, you can have an action-packed day here. And, of course, you can finish it all off with a sauna to relax and rejuvenate!
Gaels Mile Endurance Challenge
Push your limits and embrace the ultimate endurance challenge in the heart of the breathtaking Galty Mountains! **The Gaels Mile**, taking place on Saturday, August 3rd, invites you to run a one-mile loop every 15 minutes. After four hours, the interval shrinks by two minutes—and again every eight miles—until only the toughest are left standing. Compete as an individual (€60) or as part of a team (€240), where the squad with the most combined miles will claim victory. This is more than just a race—it’s a test of grit, strategy, and sheer willpower in a stunning setting. Are you ready to prove you have what it takes? Sign up today for an unforgettable challenge!
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