Trail masterplan to 'enhance tourism' launched

Community and agency partners across Limerick and North Cork gathered at Griston Bog, near Ballylanders, for the launch of the Ballyhoura Trails Masterplan.

The masterplan, a 15-year framework aimed at increasing the quality and quantity of recreational trails, focuses on three overarching themes — including partnership working, product development, and marketing and promotion.

The region covers South and East Limerick and North Cork, deriving its name from the Ballyhoura Mountain range.

It overlaps with the Munster Vales, a marketing region promoting trails, attractions, and experiences across five mountain ranges through Tipperary, Cork, Limerick, and Waterford.

Trails have become an integral part of the Ballyhoura area over the past 30 years, providing a recreational experience for thousands and becoming a significant driver of local social, environmental, and economic activity.

The development of the masterplan has been a community-driven process, engaging 450 individuals — including community groups, volunteers, trail users, and local businesses — alongside collaborations with the steering group agency representatives.

The projects officer for Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands at Fáilte Ireland, Marie Healy, said: “Fáilte Ireland welcomes the launch of the Ballyhoura Trails Masterplan.

“Ballyhoura is an important part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, and this masterplan will help enhance its tourism offering by integrating the various trail types into a cohesive visitor and community experience.

“The plan will also support Fáilte Ireland’s Destination Experience Development Plan process for Ballyhoura country, which will commence later this year. This plan will ensure that tourism development in Ballyhoura will have a sustainable and regenerative focus, with benefits accruing to the local community and nature.”