Overview
Slieve Aughty is a low‑lying mountain range in the western heart of Ireland, stretching across County Galway and County Clare. Its two ridges are bisected by the gentle Owendallaigh River, which flows westward into Lough Cutra. The highest point, Maghera, rises to 400 m (1,314 ft) and offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. While the hills themselves are ideal for quiet walks and bird‑watching, the real magnet for visitors is the Slieve Aughty Riding Centre, a family‑run eco‑friendly resort set in the foothills near Loughrea.
History
The name Slieve Aughty (Irish: Sliabh Eachtaí) is thought to derive from the ancient tribal group Cenél Áeda na hEchtge, who once roamed these wildlands. Over centuries the range has remained sparsely populated, preserving a sense of untouched wilderness that today underpins the centre’s sustainability ethos.
What to See & Do
Mountain & Nature Walks
- Maghera Summit – a short, well‑marked ascent to the range’s highest point, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline and the rolling Galway plains.
- Owendallaigh River Trail – follow the river’s meandering course through mixed woodland, spotting otters and native trout in the clear waters.
- Forest Loop – a network of traffic‑free tracks across more than 2,000 acres of forest, ideal for leisurely strolls, cycling, or a gentle jog.
Slieve Aughty Riding Centre
- Guided Forest Treks – 40‑minute to full‑day rides through pine‑filled valleys, suitable for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
- Cross‑Country Course – a 20‑acre arena with over 40 natural obstacles (banks, water jumps, stone walls). Riders must wear helmets and body protectors; the centre supplies basic tack but not protectors.
- All‑Weather Arena – perfect for flatwork, dressage and jumping lessons regardless of the weather.
- Enchanted Forest – a self‑guided fairy‑trail featuring a gnome village, witch’s hut, stone ring and wishing tree. Children can lead a gentle donkey on a “donkey walk” through the woods.
- Organic Kitchen & Café – the Slieve Aughty Woods Café serves certified organic meals, fresh pastries and a post‑ride cup of tea. Friday pizza parties run from April to October; tapas nights fill the winter months.
- Accommodation – the Three Towers Eco‑House (9 rooms, shared balconies, no TV, public‑area Wi‑Fi) and the Chalet de Florence eco‑lodge (family of up to six). Both options encourage unplugged relaxation amid forest views.
- Family Activities – arts‑and‑crafts room, toddler playground, farm‑animal petting (including a pot‑bellied pig named Eileen), and seasonal festivals (Spring, Halloween, Christmas).
Riding Lessons & Programs
- Group & Private Lessons – 1‑hour group sessions and 40‑minute private lessons run Wednesday to Sunday. Qualified instructors blend arena work, theory and trail riding.
- Mountain Trotters – children’s programme for ages 5‑12, focusing on grooming, tack handling, riding skills and natural horsemanship. Levels are tested four times a year.
- Adult Courses – flatwork, jumping, and specialised clinics (e.g., BHS Horse Owner’s Course, centred‑riding workshops).
- Stablecards – 5‑ or 10‑lesson packages offer discounted rates; sibling cards provide family discounts.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
The mixed‑woodland environment supports a variety of native birds such as the raven, buzzard and meadow pipit. Early mornings are ideal for spotting otters along the Owendallaigh River and for listening to the call of the common linnet in the forest canopy.
Practical Information
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (year‑round) |
| Riding Activity Booking | Advanced booking required 24–48 hours via the website or Hopoti platform |
| Contact | Phone: +353 909 745 246 • Email: info@slieveaughtycentre.com |
| Website | https://slieveaughtycentre.com/ |
| Parking | Free on‑site car park for visitors and guests |
| Accessibility | Main buildings are level‑access; some forest trails involve uneven ground and are best suited to able‑bodied walkers |
| Directions | From Loughrea, take the N66 to the R351 south, follow signs for Kylebrack West (≈10 km). The centre sits just off the forestry gate, marked by the distinctive Three Towers lodge. |
| Accommodation Check‑in | 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm; self‑catering options available year‑round |
Getting There
The centre lies about 45 minutes by car from Galway City and 15 minutes from Loughrea town. Public transport options are limited; the most reliable approach is by private car or taxi. The nearest major road is the N66, which connects to the M6 motorway for visitors arriving from Dublin or the south.
Booking & Payments
Riding sessions, lessons and accommodation can be booked directly on the centre’s website or through the Hopoti booking portal. Payments are accepted via credit/debit card and, for accommodation, cash on arrival. Stablecards are non‑refundable after the 24‑hour cancellation window.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring Festival (late March – early April) – organic pancake breakfasts, craft workshops and a charity ride supporting local schools.
- Easter & Halloween Festivals – themed pony camps, costume parades through the Enchanted Forest, and family‑focused games.
- Winter Weekend Offer – cosy indoor riding lessons paired with organic wine tasting at the Eco‑House.
Nearby Attractions
- Abbert River – a scenic trout fishery and historic abbey site a short drive north of the centre, ideal for a peaceful riverside walk.
- Abbeyknockmoy – the ruins of a 13th‑century Cistercian abbey set in tranquil farmland, offering a glimpse into medieval monastic life.
- Lough Cutra – a large, stocked lake popular for angling and kayaking, located just west of the Slieve Aughty range.