Galbally is right in the middle of the bottom bit of Southern Ireland. It is central to the airports, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, with hundreds of kilometres of walks, some lakes, same caves, lot of pubs, lots of history and loads to do.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding at the Hillcrest Stables is just a walk or short car ride away (5 mins)
They hold lessons, river rides, treks and pony camps.
(Pony camps must be pre-booked. Please ask for details)
Walks
There are hundreds of places for walking, cycling, hiking, wandering or just sitting by a river and thinking your day away.
You can head out to any number of organised walks during the Walking Festivals* held locally, which are ideal for any level of fitness. Many of them are arranged so that they have a variety of walks to suit time constraints, age of walker, and differing fitness levels. (*see Ballyhoura website www.visitballyhoura.com)
Some tracks are suitable for cycling around, and some suit the more adventurous hiker, who enjoys an exhilarating climb, and seeing nothing but sheep on the horizon.
The Galty Mountains are home to some 5 lakes, and are within easy reach of Reads Park, by car.
Moore Abbey
Moore Abbey, a fine ruined monastery from many centuries ago can be explored after a very short walk, or if you wish to venture slightly further, you could find yourself up a hill, looking for Dolman, the celebrated graves of the ancients!
Golf
Ireland has no shortage of excellent Golf Clubs. The nearest are in Mitchelstown, Tipperary Town and Ballykisteen, all just 8 miles away, and there are many, many more within the county.
Ballybunion, another famous course is about 1.5 hours drive away, but with very little in the way of traffic jams, and plenty to see on the way, it would make a great day out.
Courses can be pre-booked, and details of green fees and facilities will be available on your arrival if you let us know what you are looking for..
Fishing
There are many places suitable for fishing. The River Blackwater, which runs through Fermoy (approx 20 miles away) is famous for it.
Ballyhours Fáilte
There are a programme of activities organised by Ballyhoura Fáilte which start early in the year with the ‘Walking Festival’. This packed programme starts at the end of April and has walks for all levels allowing inexperienced and experienced walkers to explore the countryside safely, at a pace to suit themselves. (Ask for a brochure).
Festivals
There are lots of festivals held in Ireland every year – with “Independence” in Mitchelstown on our doorstep every August.
From oysters to Irish music, there is something for every-one. Let us know what interests you, and we’ll see if there is a festival on during your stay.
Music & Dancing
Would you like to learn how to Set Dance?
Go to a Kiély, listen to the bodhran at a Séisson? You can locally.
Children’s Parks, Farms, & Zoos
There are a variety of excellent children’s parks within easy reach of Reads Park. There are parks with farmyard animals and a small bit of wildlife thrown in (PARSONS GREEN), or parks like FOTA ISLAND with lots of wildlife and a few farmyards animals thrown in.
BUTTERFLY FARM is another popular destination for the youngsters, and you can find many more when you start to explore!
