Conquer the Blackstairs Eco Trails

We’ve teamed up with Blackstairs Eco Trails to bring your stag party an unforgettable blend of nature, craic, and good times. Get ready to conquer the Blackstairs Mountains, included in almost every must-hike mountain of Ireland!

Into the Wild

Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Blackstairs Eco Trails is Mother Nature’s very own stag party destination. Picture this: the majestic Blackstairs Mountains as your backdrop, the River Barrow flowing nearby, and an abundance of walking and hiking trails at your disposal.

Why Blackstairs Eco Trails Rocks

• Green and Proud: These folks aren’t just nature enthusiasts; they’re eco-warriors! Blackstairs Eco Trails is a Gold-accredited ecotourism destination, meaning they’re all about sustainability. They use renewable energy, manage waste responsibly, and support local conservation. Respect for the environment? Check.
• Irish Myths Unveiled: Ever wondered about the tales behind Irish trees? Enter the Celtic Tree Trail. It’s not just a walk; it’s a journey through Irish mythology. And for the wild at heart, there’s the “Wild Food Foraging and Feast” experience – where you can literally taste the wild side!
• Local Guides with the Gift of the Gab: These guides aren’t just guides; they’re storytellers with a passion for the local area. They’ll make you laugh, keep you entertained, and probably teach you a thing or two about the birds, bees, and everything in between.

Why Stagit Loves Blackstairs Eco Trails:

Stag-Perfect Accommodations

Luxury shepherds’ huts, camping, and glamping – take your pick! Blackstairs Eco Trails knows how to keep a stag party comfy after a day of conquering the mountains.

Events that Roar

From birdwatching walks to family nature days, Blackstairs Eco Trails hosts events that fit your stag party like a perfectly poured pint.

Local Tastes and Cheers

Expect meals crafted from local ingredients that’ll make your taste buds dance a jig. Wash it down with a selection of locally-produced beers and wines. Stag-approved!

Here’s what customers had to say about the Blackstairs eco trails:

“Can t fault this experience  from start to end. Friendly, welcoming, coffee and flapjacks on arrival. Delicious lunch after foraging. Very knowledgeable and informative. Learned loads. Got the mushroom bug even worse afterwards. Worth it for the nature experience alone. Can’t recommend highly enough.” – mark o connell

In a nutshell, Blackstairs Eco Trails is the stag party dream with Stagit you never knew you had. So, round up the lads, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to conquer the Blackstairs. Stagit and Blackstairs Eco Trails – where legendary stags begin!

Ballaghmore Castle: A Step Back in Time

Ah, the grand and ancient Ballaghmore Castle! Sure, it’s a step back in time, it is! This 15th-century gem nestled in County Laois, Ireland, is a beloved spot for tourists far and wide. Aye, the castle boasts a history and architecture so unique that it’ll have your heart dancing a merry jig!

Features of Ballaghmore Castle

First and foremost, we have the castle itself. Built in 1480 by the gallant Gaelic Chieftain MacGiollaphadraig, who later came to be known as Fitzpatrick, this castle is a sight to behold! With its charming 15th-century architecture, it’s no wonder visitors are left in awe. So, grab your cloak and prepare to be enchanted!

Sheela-na-Gig

And listen to this, folks! One of the most intriguing features of Ballaghmore Castle is the Sheela-na-Gig, cunningly carved in stone on its front facing wall. Now, don’t go all shy on me, but this here Sheela-na-Gig is a symbol of pagan fertility. Aye, she’s meant to ward off evil spirits, and let’s face it, a castle with a touch of mystery is bound to stir your adventurous spirit!

Location?

Ah, but the strategic location of this castle is another tale to tell. Ballaghmore Castle stood strong on the old Irish Road, guarding North Munster from the perils of attack. No wonder it stands so well-preserved till this very day. It’s like a time capsule, taking you back to the days of chivalry and knights in shining armor.

Restored in the early 20th century

Though the castle endured a period of abandonment in the 17th century, it found its guardian angel in the early 20th century. Thanks to restoration efforts, Ballaghmore Castle shines bright again, and the doors are open to all who wish to revel in its history.

Activities at Ballaghmore Castle

Now, what can ye do while visiting this fine castle? Fear not, for there’s plenty to keep ye entertained!

Explore the Castle Interior

First and foremost, don’t miss the chance to explore the castle’s interior. You can traipse through the Great Hall, feeling like a lord or lady from times of old. Wander into the Kitchen, where you can imagine the hearty feasts prepared for the castle’s inhabitants. And oh, the bedrooms! Lay your eyes upon the ancient chambers where the brave souls of yore once rested their heads.

Learn about the Castle’s History

Feeling like a scholar of history? You’re in luck! Around the castle, you’ll find information boards, enlightening ye about the castle’s rich and colorful past. Tread carefully, for every stone has a story to tell.

Stroll Through the Castle Grounds

But don’t think the adventure ends within the castle walls. No, no, no! Take a stroll through the castle grounds, and you’ll be treated to a picturesque view that’ll warm the cockles of your heart. With walking trails aplenty, you’ll be one with nature and history, all at once.

Visit the Gift Shop

Ah, but wait, there’s more! Visit the gift shop, where treasures await. Take a piece of Ballaghmore Castle with ye, be it a book filled with its tales, a postcard to send to your kin, or a piece of jewelry to adorn yourself with a bit of castle charm.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

And if you’re a sporty one, fear not! Ballaghmore Castle has more to offer. Fishing, shooting, riding, hunting, hill walking, mountain climbing, and golf! Phew, now that’s a list to keep you busy and entertained, don’t ya think?

Meet the Owner – Grace Pym

Now, who’s the lucky soul that owns this magnificent castle? None other than the spirited Grace Pym! She laid her claim on Ballaghmore Castle back in 1990, and she’s a direct descendant of the MacGiollaphadraigs, those chieftains who once built this very place. Talk about keeping it in the family!

 

Under Grace’s watchful eye, the castle was lovingly restored to its former glory. And what a beauty it is now! Not only can you visit and explore, but she also offers guided tours, where you’ll feel like you’re living history itself. And if you’ve got a mind for celebrations, she’s got you covered! Weddings, photoshoots, and even historical reenactments are part of the fun.

Unleash Your Stag Party Fantasy at Ballaghmore Castle!

If you’re on the hunt for an epic stag party that’ll go down in history, look no further than Ballaghmore Castle! This 15th-century beauty in County Laois, Ireland, is your ticket to a legendary celebration!

Cocktail Classes at Cocktail Classes Ireland

Looking to stir up some pre-wedding fun that’s as fabulous as your bridal squad? Look no further – we’ve got the scoop on the hottest ticket in town: Cocktail-making classes in Ireland! Prepare for an event that’s part of a cocktail crash course, mixology magic, and all-around good times.

Mixing and Mingling

Let’s kick things off with the promise of an unforgettable hen party in Ireland where everyone can play bartender for a day. Imagine you and your girl gang shaking up the ultimate concoctions under the guidance of expert mixologists. Yep, that’s the vibe we’re talking about!

Sip & Learn

It is not just about the ‘pour and sip’ – this class is a full-on adventure into the world of mixology. Picture yourselves learning the secret art of mixing, shaking, and stirring like the pros. The best part? You’ll uncover the fascinating history behind your favorite tipples. It’s like a boozy history lesson but with way more laughs!

Cosmo Kick-off

Everyone starts with a classic Cosmopolitan to break the ice and set the tone for an epic evening. Cue the clinking glasses and infectious laughter as the festivities begin.

Shake It Up!

Divided into two teams, get ready to unleash your creativity and master the art of making some of the most popular cocktails out there. The fun doesn’t stop there – there’s a friendly competition in the mix! The bride-to-be plays judge and jury, choosing the winning team. Spoiler alert: the prize is not just bragging rights – it’s sipping on your winning creation!

Your Venue, Your Rules

Whether you want the party at your place or a centrally located venue, Cocktail Classes Ireland covers you. It’s all about flexibility, darling! They offer packages for 3 to 5 cocktails, ensuring everyone in your fabulous group gets a chance to mix, drink, and be merry under the watchful eye of a seasoned mixologist.

It’s indeed a good holiday for the ladies, but here’s the good news: This is an excellent activity for the lads on their stag party in Ireland, too! Book Cocktail Classes Ireland for a night of sips, giggles, and memories that’ll last a lifetime!

Planning a stag party? We’ve got you covered throughout Ireland, from the lively streets of Galway to the charming vibes of Carrick on Shannon and the bustling energy of Kilkenny.