Time        8pm

Venue     Church of Ireland Kilfinane.

Tickets 10 euro for Adults and 5 for Children.

766m  Grid Reference R 862 242

OSi 1:50 000 Discovery Series  Sheet  74

Introduction/Setting:

With its many peaks, ridges, spurs and glens the Galty range offers more horseshoes than you’ll find at a country gymkhana. The Slievecushnabinnia Horseshoe is a spectacular and infrequently walked route from the southern side of the Galtys. The Slievecushnabinnia Horseshoe enfolds a glen where the Attycran River meets the Glounreagh River and offers sweeping views of the Galty range and the surrounding pastoral landscape of the Golden Vale. There are many types of heathers and rare alpine plants. You may hear a Peregrine Falcon or a kestrel. The marks of the Ice Age are all around. Lakes on the north side are where the water has been trapped by massed moraine. Moraines are accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris (soil and rock) which can occur in currently glaciated and formerly glaciated regions. Slievecushnabinnia peak itself is non-descript but being south facing is often blessed with sunshine.

There have been several crosses on Galtymore since the first went up in 1933. In 1962, starting from Kingsyard, a stone Celtic cross went up on Bren Gun (machine gun) Carrier Katie Daly to the top of Galtymore. This cross is no longer there and was replaced by the current cross in 1975.

Route:

From the south leave the M8 at junction 12, taking the exit onto the N73 (signposted Mallow), and at the next roundabout, take the exit onto the R639 (signposted Kilbeheny).  After 3km turn left at sign for ‘Kingsyard Galty Climb’ (R 872 164) and follow signs for ‘Kingsyard Walkers Centre’.

From the north leave the M8 at junction 11, taking the exit onto the R639 (signposted Kilbeheny). After 14km, turn right at the ‘Kingsyard Galty Climb’ (R 872 164) and follow signs for ‘Kingsyard Walkers Centre’

Start from Kingsyard Car Park at R 875 200. Follow a good, unsurfaced road passing several deserted homesteads on either side with their ‘lazybeds’ still visible. To the east, the two peaks of Seefin keep us company, with Knockeenatoung rising behind to the northeast. Pass through a sheep pen with two gates at R 876 210. These sheep pens and the old ruins beside them are sheltered by two old beech trees by the Glounreagh River. The ruins are of a shepherds house and workplace in the Estate times. From the Sheep Pens head onto the open mountain to the plateau which is Knocknagalty (R 875 222) and rising majestically ahead is Galtymore, Ireland highest inland peak at 919m. Face uphill again and follow the spur of Knockduff (R 876 227) up to the main Galty Ridge to meet with the Galty Wall at R 872 235. In mist it would make sense to aim off so as not to wander through the gap between the end of the wall and the slopes of Galtymore.

Optional: Here you have the option to bag one of Irelands 14 Munros. If this is the case, from the wall end, head in an easterly direction to Galtymore (919m) GR 878238 and return to the same point on the Galty Wall R 872 235.

Take a break using the wall for shelter and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountain ranges, fertile plains and the Shannon estuary.

The Wall is 4km long and was built as the boundary between the Massey Estate in Angelsboro and the Kingston Estate in Mitchelstown. Continue walking on the north side of the wall to pass over Lough Curra at 864 240. At 574m, Lough Curra is the highest lake in the Galtys and home of the rare Arctic Char a coldwater fish and part of the salmon family more commonly found in Iceland. The receding marks of the Ice Age can clearly be seen by the deep horizontal fissures on these cliffs. The wall turns sharply to the left at R 864 242. Follow it to the top of Slievecushnabinnia at 766m R  862 242 which is small heap of stones, not a cairn (distance travelled 5km time 2 to 2.5 hours).

Turn west at the corner of the wall and continue for 140m from the corner of the wall to the cairn. Then continue for 1Km  along the ridge from the cairn until  the spur starts to widen again at R 854 236. Take a west by northwest direction for 400m to Carrignabinnia R 850 237 at 822m. Turning in a southeasterly direction, descend  through the gap in the wall and continue down Bengower onto the coll under Carrigeen Mountain at R 857 222, passing a pleasant grassly knoll known locally as Knoll Fisk. Keep up slightly from the river bank of the Glounreagh River at 866 221 for easier walking.  You will cross a bridge over the Glounreagh River at R 868 219. Walk east up the hill to the track that will take you back to the Sheep Pens at 876 210 and continue all the way back to Kingsyard 875 200.

Possible alternatives:

Take in Galtymore (919m) GR 878238 or do the route in reverse.

Time, distance and type of terrain:

Time 4.5 to 5 hours

The total distance is 11.8 km. Total height gain is 960m.

Including the optional Galtymore climb the distance is 13.2km and height gain is 1050 m.

Very good terrain underfoot

Access advice and issues, if any:

No access issues known.

Parking: Good (Kingsyard Walkers’ Centre offers a secure car park, for a modest fee, with a selection of services after a long day in the Galtys, including showers and camping).

Probably the best part of your day will be to all congregate in the closest thing that Ireland has to a Himalayan tea house. The delightful self-service café serves hot drinks and snacks to hungry walkers.

Contributed by Helen Shanahan and Tom Dalton

Contact details: Tom Dalton

Email tmdalton@eircom.net

Phone 086 274 9265

Hiring bikes in order to cycle the Great Southern trail or any of the looped trails is both convenient and affordable.

How does it work?

• Whether you want to cycle 4km or 40km you contact us and we will do the rest.

We will supply the bikes and equipment at whatever point you wish to start from.

If you want to be collected simply phone or text us where you are on the trail and we will collect you and bring you back to where you started.

How much does it cost?

The Donkey Sanctuary are hosting a sponsored Horse & Carriage Drive in conjunction with Dolla Horse & Driving Club from Tipperary.

The drive will start at The Donkey Sanctuary at 1pm, viewers will have the opportunity to take photos and see the horses. There could be between 30 – 40 horses and carriages taking part. The drive will go through Dromina, Churchtown and Liscarroll and back to the Sanctuary. They will stop at The Bridge Bar in Ballyhea for refreshments. More photo opportunites here!

There will be a family fun day with traditional crafts at The Donkey Sanctuary from 2pm to 5pm, free entry, all welcome. You can have a chance to walk or groom a donkey, see a farrier demonstration and traditional horse shoeing.

Try your luck with games like horse shoe throwing and splat the rat.

Your support at this event would be much appreciated. As the number of abandoned and stray donkeys continue to rise our resources are been stretched to the limit. Contact Jacinta or Geraldine at 022 48398 if you would like to take a sponsorship card or help with a bucket collection on the day.

Download (PDF, 248KB)

BILBOA

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION FOR BILBOA; LIMERICK

Place name: Bilboa

Latitude: 52° 35′ 53″ N

Longitude: 8° 20′ 49″ W

Feature description: River

Area/state: Limerick

Country: Ireland

Country ISO code: IE

DRIVING DIRECTIONS FROM LIMERICK CITY TO BILBOA, CO. LIMERICK.

(36 minutes; 27.6 km)

Starting point: Limerick City.

1. Head north on Rockspring Gardens toward Bellefield Gardens

2. Slight left onto Bellefield Gardens

3. Turn left to stay on Bellefield Gardens

4. Turn left onto Ennis Road

5. Continue onto Sarsfield Street

6. Continue onto William Street

7. Continue onto Upper William Street

8. Continue onto Mulgrave Street

9. Continue onto Ballysimon Road/R527

Continue to follow R527

Go through 2 roundabouts

10. Continue onto N24

Go through 1 roundabout

11. Turn left onto R505

12. Turn right to stay on R505

Go through 1 roundabout

13. Turn right onto Doon Road/R505

Continue to follow R505

14. Turn left

15. Turn left

Arriving at Bilboa, Co. Limerick.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Wednesday 15th & Thursday 16th May @ 8pm

Lime Tree Theatre,

Mary Immaculate College,

Limerick.

Conducted by Máire Keary-Scanlon, The National Children’s Choir is a school-based choral experience for primary school children from 4th 5th and 6th classes.

This unique concert involves 350 pupils from pupils Cratloe, Caherdavin,Nicker/, Bilboa, Ballylanders, Roxboro, Donoughmore schools singing 16 songs in harmony accompanied by the Dolman Quartet. The children will sing a repertoire of songs in Irish, English, Latin and French.

Tickets: €10 – Purchase Online

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone: +353 61 774774

Email: boxoffice@limetreetheatre.ie

Webpage: www.limetreetheatre.ie

HYNAN COACH TOURS 

Hynan Coach Tours,

Bilboa,

Cappamore,

Co. Limerick.

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone:+353 86 2500433 / +353 61 381965

Email: mikehynancoaches@eircom.net

Webpage:www.mikehynancoaches.com

We are ideally situated in the hub of Ireland’s mid-west region, specialising in luxury coach tours, locally, nationally and internationally. Golf Tour transportation, Corporate Coach Hire and all major Sporting Events are catered for.

All services can be custom designed to our client’s requirements. Collection from all major airports, Shannon Airport, Dublin, Cork, Belfast and Ferry ports, Rosslare, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin Port.

Our fleet caters for both large and small groups with many of our buses having wheelchair facilities. As members of the Coach Tourism and Transport Council of Ireland and Bord Fáilte our luxury coaches and cars are inspected and approved to a high standard.

A 24 hour personal service is available together with a proven track record of exceptionally high standards of fleet maintenance with constant investment programs. Mike Hynan Coach Services is fully committed to providing our customers with a professional, efficient and enjoyable travel experience.

Tours offered include:

-        Ring of Kerry

-        Dingle Peninsula

-        Cliffs of Moher/ Burren Tours

-        Galway, Connemara, Westport

-        Cork, Blarney, Midleton, Cobh, Kinsale

-        Waterford, Wexford

-        Kilkenny, Athlone

-        Dublin City Tours

-        Sligo, Donegal

-        Inishowen Peninsula, Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, Belfast

Local touring includes:

-        Hunt Museum, Limerick

-        King John’s Castle

-        Glenstal Abbey

-        Clare Glens

-        Adare

-        Bunratty Folk Park

-        Bunratty Castle

-        Cragganowen

-        Glen of Aherlow

-        Galtee Mountains

-        Sarsfield’s Ride

-        Cashel

BILBOA ATHLETICS CLUB 

Bilboa,

Upper Main Street,

Doon,

Co. Limerick.

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone:+353 61 380315

Email: mgtomalley@eircom.net

THE BILBOA RIVER

The Bilboa River is a tributary of the Mulkear River. It rises in the Slieve Felim Mountains in Co. Tipperary and flows in a south-westerly direction towards the Mulkear confluence in Cappamore, Co. Limerick.

The Bilboa has good stocks of brown trout and is popular among fly anglers. As a tributary of the Mulkear River, the Bilboa River forms part of the Lower Shannon SAC, designated due to the presence of lagoons and alluvial wet woodlands, Annex I habitats assigned by the EU Habitats Directive.

Within the Lower River Shannon, many EU Habitats Directive Annex II species are present, including river lamprey, brook lamprey, freshwater pearl mussel, Atlantic salmon and otter. Upstream of the survey site, along the upper reaches of the Bilboa and its tributary, the Gortnageragh River, there are areas of semi-natural broadleaf woodland dominated by native species of trees and shrubs, such as ash, hazel, oak and birch.

The survey site was located immediately downstream of Bilboa Bridge, approximately 4km east of Cappamore.Three electric-fishing passes were conducted using four bank-based electric fishing units on the 13th of August 2009 along a 38m stretch of river channel. The substrate was predominantly cobble, whilst the habitat was an even mix of riffle and glide.

The mean wetted widthof the surveyed stretch was 16.3m and the mean depth was 20.0cm. Emergent macrophytes were scattered throughout the channel as well as mosses, liverworts and red algae. Himalayan balsam, a non-native species which is becoming an increasing threat to river bank habitats in Ireland, was also present on the river banks.

A total of five fish species were recorded in the Bilboa River site. Salmon was by far the most abundant species, followed by brown trout, European eel, stone loach and three-spined stickleback.

SKAHARD COUNTRY VILLA; CAHERCONLISH

Registered with Failte Ireland.

Skahard,

Caherconlish ,

Co. Limerick.

Phone:+ 353 87 2362742

Fax: + 353 61 351260

Email: info@skahardcountryvilla.ie

Skahard Country Villa is a luxury self-catering holiday home which combines luxury, culture and heritage in a farmhouse holiday experience. We offer everything from holiday rentals to fully organized and planned holidays for a maximum of six persons.

Skahard House is a 200-year-old Georgian farmhouse renovated to reflect a way of life in Ireland of old. It is set in the quiet, pastoral backdrop of Limerick, which is an ancient city originally founded by the Vikings. Geographically, the hotel is perfectly positioned to experience an impressive amount of Ireland’s sites and activities in day trips.

The house and grounds are located on our privately owned farm, with lush rolling fields, wild life sanctuary and prehistoric remains of a genuine 2,500 year old ring fort on Skahard hill, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Holiday leisure is spent relaxing in our outdoor hot tub, playing croquet, reading in the conservatory or walking undisturbed on our lands. All mod. cons. are provided for including flat screen TVs (lounge and bedrooms), high-speed internet + WiFi, piped music, library of Irish books and music, and office with PC, fax, printer, photocopier and scanner.

NELLIE’S COTTAGE

Registered with Failte Ireland.

Nellie’s Cottage,

Tower Hill,

Cappamore,

Co. Limerick.

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone:+353 61 381127

Email: teresasheehy2@eircom.net

Nellie’s Cottage is set in peaceful rural surroundings with pleasant walks nearby – also a number of golf courses. Cappamore and Doon Villages, ideal locations for good restaurants, are within 3km. Tipperary town 20km. Well-appointed house with two bedrooms en-suite.For a real taste of country living in an area of great scenic beauty,

http://www.limerick.ie/media/nellies%20cottage.jpg

stay at Nellie’s Cottage near Cappamore in County Limerick. It offers quality self-catering accommodation whether you’re looking for a family holiday, a romantic break or just a comfortable and relaxing base for touring. The interior of Nellie’s Cottage is beautifully decorated and all rooms are elegant and relaxing. The property can accommodate a party of up to six people in a twin bedroom and two double bedrooms. Along with the three bedrooms, two of which are ensuite, the cottage has a fully fitted kitchen and a cosy living area. This pretty country style cottage enjoys a rural location but is only 3km from the picturesque villages of Doon and Cappamore. Tipperary town and Limerick city are also both only 20km away. While here you can fill your days with outdoor activities like golfing, fishing or exploring the pleasant walking trails nearby. Its location is great for touring the midlands, the south and the west of Ireland, so you really can make the most of your holiday in Ireland when you stay here. Nearby attractions for you to explore include Lough Gur, King Johns Castle and Croom Mills Waterwheel and Heritage Centre.

CURRAGHLAHAN HOUSE

Registered with Failte Ireland

Curraghlahan House,

Cappamore,

Co. Limerick.

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone:+353 62 79119

Email: david.ryan@agriculture.gov.ie

Restored farmhouse in peaceful setting in picturesque Slieve Felim mountain range. Forest walks nearby. All modern conveniences. House has 4 double bedrooms, 1 bedroom downstairs and 3 bedrooms en suite. Good touring base.

House adjusted for disabled. Shannon airport 60km. Limerick city 30km.Golf 22km. Pets welcome. Location ideally suited to allow children play with freedom. Very peaceful location away for all distractions.

DIRECTIONS

From Cappamore take road to Rearcross, at Bilboa crossroads take left heading for Rearcross, 4km from Bilboa cross, take road to left. House 0.8km on left hand side. From Rearcross, take rd. to Cappamore, 5km from Rearcross, take rd to right. House 0.8km on left hand side.

HAWTHORN VIEW

Registered with Failte Ireland. 

CONTACT DETAILS

Knockroe,

Horse & Jockey/Cashel Road N62,

Thurles,

Tipperary.

Telephone: +353 504 21710

Email: noreenomahony555@gmail.com

Three star accommodation. Country Bungalow on landscaped private gardens. Car park. Peaceful surroundings. Golf club two minutes drive. Ideal touring base for Holy Cross Abbey and Rock of Cashel. 2 miles from Thurles. Convenient to hotels, restaurants & Equestrian Centre.

NEARBY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION 

KILMURRY LODGE HOTEL

Dublin Road,
Castletroy,

Co. Limerick.

(061) 331133

CASTLETROY PARK HOTEL

Dublin Road,

Co. Limerick.

(061) 335566

CASTLEOAKS HOTEL

Castleconnell,

Co. Limerick.

(061) 377666

TRAVEL LODGE CASTLETROY

Dublin road,

Castletroy,

Limerick.

(061) 603 500

HAYES HOTEL; THURLES

Liberty Square,

Thurles,

Tipperary,

Republic of Ireland.

Telephone: +353 504 22122

Email: hayeshotelthurles@gmail.com

Webpage: www.hayeshotel.com

Hayes Hotel is a friendly accommodation situated in the town of Thurles, County Tipperary. It offers 32 ensuite rooms with single, double, twin and family configurations, so there is something for every kind of traveller.

The hotel’s Coffee Dock is open throughout the day, serving breakfast, carvery lunch and an extensive à la carte dinner menu. Guests can also make use of room service and get in a workout at the nearby leisure complex.

Hayes is the oldest established accommodation in Thurles and thus boasts a fascinating history. In 1884, a group of Irishmen gathered there and established the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).

In addition to being the Mecca for followers of the Gaelic games, Thurles is home to a number of interesting historical sites, including Farney Castle, St Mary’s Famine Church and the Cathedral of the Assumption.

BILBOA 10K ROAD RACE

Begins in: Limerick, Ireland.

Created by: John Desmond

Route of the annual Ger Mullane Memorial Bilboa 10k road race in East Limerick.

For more information on races in Munster, go to http;//munsterrunning.blogspot.co

Ger Mullane Bilboa 10K

June 14, 2013 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Location:

Bilboa A.C. Clubhouse,

Bilboa,

Cappamore,

Co. Limerick,

Ireland.

Distance: 10.01 kilometers

Climb:55.0 m

THE CAPPAMORE SHOW 2013

CAPPAMORE SHOW

Monday 12th – Sunday 18th August 2013

Portnard, Cappamore, Co. Limerick

Cappamore Agricultural Show is one of Ireland’s leading One Day Shows and is very highly regarded among exhibitors and regular Show supporters throughout the Munster region as well as nationally. The Show was founded in 1954 and has run continually since.

Cappamore Show is distinctive in that it incorporates both displays and competitions in areas such as Cookery, Crafts, Agricultural and Horticultural produce and other areas that draw on the traditional skills, arts and crafts of the region, as well as more traditional Show sections such as Cattle and Horse showing and jumping classes.

CONTACT DETAILS

Phone: +353 61 381062

Email: info@cappamoreshow.ie

Webpage: www.cappamoreshow.ie

LOOPED WALKS

KILCOMMOM PILGRIM LOOP

DESCRIPTIONS

Ascent: 350m / 170m

Distance: 7km / 2hrs – 2hr30mins

Grade: Moderate

Minimum Gear: Hiking boots, raingear, fluid and mobile phone

Services: Kilcommon, Thurles (27km)

Terrain: Minor roadways, forestry roadways, cross country.

Trailhead: Community Centre, Kilcommon, Co. Tipperary.

A-B. With your back to the Community Centre, turn left and follow the purple arrow along the roadway for 200m to reach a farm laneway on your right. Turn right and follow the laneway downhill to a sharp left bend – go straight across and continue to follow the purple arrows along the fence to reach the Bilboa River. Cross the footbridge and follow the edge of forestry to reach the roadway. Turn left here.

B-C. After 300m turn right, cross a stile onto a forestry track and, almost immediately, turn left at a Y-junction. Follow the forestry track as it swings right, then left, and ascend to reach a left bend where it climbs a bank to exit onto a forestry road and turn right.

C-D. Follow the forestry road for 1km to reach a Y-junction where the loop veers right. [Experienced hillwalkers may enjoy the challenge of taking a left here to ascend Motharsliabh (5XXm) - it’s approximately a 1hr climb.]. After 200m watch for a right turn which takes you through a short section of forestry and onto an old roadway. The roadway descends and takes you onto a surfaced road at a bend. A 200m detour to your right takes you to a Mass Rock – the main loop continues downhill along the road.

D-A. Descend for 200m before turning right and crossing a stile into a field. Follow the boundary downhill to exit at a gateway, turn right and immediately, turn left onto a laneway. After 100m turn right across a stream, turn left andfollow the field boundary first to the corner and then along the riverbank to reach a footbridge on your left. Cross the river, and follow an old roadway for 200m, and a field boundary uphill for 100m to reach a surfaced road. Turn right and enjoy the last 700m back to the village.

MONTPELIER

DESCRIPTION

Montpelier is a rural village and a town land in east County Limerick, Ireland, on the east bank of the River Shannon.It is connected to O’Brien’s Bridge across the river in County Clare by a 14-arch stone bridge. The village is famous for this stone bridge.

The first bridge was built by Turlough O’Brien in 1506. It was replaced in 1750 and has had further modifications since including a modification for the Shannon Scheme downstream in 1925 – 1929.

Nearby attractions include fishing on the River Shannon, attractions and activities in Killaloe including The Spirit of Killaloe – an accompanied sightseeing river boat tours, the Killaloe Sailing Club and University of Limerick activity centre in Killaloe.

For more information log onto:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montpelier,_County_Limerick

ACCOMODATION; SCAPAFLOW B&B

Scapaflow has a fantastic location for your holiday in Montpelier. It is nestled in the village of O’Brien’s Bridge just 5km from Castleconnell, 16km from Limerick City, 5kms from Killaloe and about a 25-minute drive from Shannon where Shannon International Airport is located.

Scapaflow has a great location overlooking the beautiful River Shannon in the centre of the village, so it’s only a stroll to the bars, shops and restaurants. It has a great base if you enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, golf, and horse riding, tennis, walking and water sports.

Three star Bord Failte approved for Anglers and Walkers.

CONTACT

Scapaflow Bed & Breakfast,

O’ Brien’s Bridge,

Co. Clare.

Telephone   (061) 377 144

085 164 0048

SPECIAL RATE

30 euro PPPN

For more information log onto:

http://www.goireland.com/clare/scapaflow-accommodation-bed-and-breakfast-id32563.htm

O’ BRIEN’S BRIDGE SHRINE

O’BRIENSBRIDGE& MONTPELIER LOOP WALKS

The picturesque village of O’Brien’s Bridge, Co Clare nestles on the banks of the River Shannon and borders three counties namely Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. The twin village is linked to its sister village, Montpelier in Co. Limerick on the other side of the River Shannon, by a 15th Century stone bridge. These loops are part of the network of National Looped Walks.

TRAIL SUMMARY

LOOP: O’Brien’s Bridge Loop Walks

TRAILHEAD: Riverside Park, O’Brien’s Bridge, Co. Clare

SERVICES: O’Brien’s Bridge, Co. Clare

DISTANCE/TIME/DIFFICULTY:

-          Parteen Weir Loop (Green loop), 5km/1.5hrs

-          Old Barge Loop (Red Loop), 12km/3.5hrs

-          Errina Canal Loop (Blue Loop), 7km/2hrs

-          Combination Loop, 16km/4hrs

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

TERRAIN: Flat, firm terrain with mix of riverside paths and canal banks.

TO SUIT: Medium level of fitness

MINIMUM GEAR: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks and mobile phone

For more information log onto:

http://www.shannonregiontrails.ie/FindaTrail/Walking/LoopWalks/TrailName,5771,en.html

O’BRIENSBRIDGE HERITAGE GARDEN

The trailhead is located in a beautifully restored Heritage Garden in the centre of O’Brien’s Bridge. This amenity was developed by the local community and also features an Old Mill Wall and Navigation Wall. The Old Mill Wall is all that remains of a five storey corn mill that was built by Hood & Boyd of Glasgow in the 1830s.

CLONLARA EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Clonlara Equestrian centre is situated in East Clare, 5km from Limerick city and 8km from the marina town of Killaloe. The riding school is situated on 130acres of farmland making it ideal for trekking, lessons cross country and hosting competitions. It host an international size indoor, an outdoor manage and stabling for 65stables, walker, mini cross country, ample parking and lovely scenery.

CONTACT

TELEPHONE: 061 354172

087 6892373

EMAIL: clonlaraequest2@eircom.net

DIRECTIONS

FROM LIMERICK take the R464 to Barry’s shop in Ardnacrusha, turn right on to the r463 for killaloe.  A mile and a half down that road on the left is a bright orange house and a sign for us, turn up avenue for riding school.

FROM CASTLECONNELL direction head towards O’ Brien’s Bridge village, go over Shannon through village to cross roads take left on to the r463. Drive for about 3miles and you will pass turn for Clonlara village we are a mile beyond on right hand side. Bright orange house at the bottom of the avenue.

FROM KILLALOE  Cross bridge from Ballina side to Killaloe side.  Take left turn at Anchor bar and head out the R463 for about 8km following the canal bank on your left. Passing through two crossroads first at O’Brien’s Bridge and then Clonlara. A mile beyond Clonlara cross road on bad bend were on the right. Bright orange house at the entrance to avenue.

PUBS IN MONTPELIER & O’BRIEN’S BRIDGE

RYAN DARBY’S PUB

O’Brien’s Bridge,

Co. Limerick

(061) 372220

BROWN’S PUB

Montpelier,
Limerick.

(061) 377227

BONNER’S BAR

O’Brien’s Bridge,

Co. Limerick.

(061) 377160

LIMERICK REGATTA 2013

Saturday 11th May, 9am – 7pm

O’Brien’s Bridge

Limerick Regatta 2013 promises to be bigger than ever before when crews take to the water in O’Brien’s Bridge on Saturday 11th May.This collective Regatta was first organised in Limerick City in 1870, but because the Regatta grew so large, the tidal conditions in the city didn’t allow enough time to run the full programme, and the Regatta moved to Killaloe in the 1970’s for a few years before it found its current home in O’Brien’s Bridge in 1984.

There is no entry fee for spectators and everyone is welcome to come along, bring a picnic and enjoy this wonderful spectacle – with the best of Irish Rowing and more than 1,000 athletes from all over Ireland competing from Junior 14’s to Masters. It promises to be a great day of rowing!

LISHEEN GRAVEYARD

Lisheen Graveyard,

Montpelier,

Co. Limerick.

Lisheen graveyard was where the monks who settled on Inishlosky Island later retreated to. It is situated on high ground overlooking the island. The majority of the headstones are located on either side of the graveyard with the central area filled by numerous mix of fixed and loose unmarked stones. It was uncertain which of these unmarked stones were marking official burial sites although it is likely that this central part of the graveyard does include several burials.

For more information log onto:

http://historicgraves.com/story/paddy-tuohy-tells-connection-cemetery-lisheen-montpelier-and-inishlosky-island

O’ BRIEN’S BRIDGE COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND

State of the Art Village Playground developed by the O’ Brien’s Bridge Community Group.

This is a new, colourful playground with all the best equipment for both the smaller children and not so small children. It is fully enclosed and there are also many great walks along the river nearby so a fun day out can be had by all.

HERITAGE GARDEN

This very attractive little Heritage Garden was developed by the Community Group. The old heritage wall at the rear of the garden is part of the Old Corn Mill and was also restored by the Community Group.

LOOP WALKS IN MONTPELIER & O’ BRIEN’S BRIDGE

This is one of seven very attractive horse bridges restored by the Community Group during the development of the O’ Brien’s Bridge Loop Walks.

HERITAGE INFORMATION BOARD ON LOOP WALKS

This is one of the 12 Heritage Information Boards erected by the Community Group to highlight the important Heritage Sites along the walkway and is another attempt to promote the Loop Walks and the village of Montpelier and O’ Brien’s Bridge.

The O’ Brien’s Bridge Loop Walks run all along waterways away from public roads and are 16 km in length. There are three loops in total; the RED, BLUE AND GREEN Loops with Heritage Information Boards all along these walks.

There is plenty to see and do near Montpelier Community Centre. The nearest place is Bridgetown Cemetery which is approximately 2.2km away. The second nearest place, Kiltenanlea Graveyard is about 5.3km away. Another nearby place isKillaloe Cemetery which is approximately 6.7km away. Slightly further away is Brian Boru Heritage Centre which is approximately 7.4km away. Finally Beal Boru Fort is about 8.2km away.

ARDNACRUSHA POWER PLANT

Ardnacrusha Power Plant is a hydroelectric power station which was originally referred to as The Shannon Scheme. It is located near Ardnacrusha within County Clare approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the Limerick border. It is Ireland‘s largest river hydroelectric scheme and is operated on a purpose built canal connected to the River Shannon. The plant includes fish ladders so that returning fish, such as salmon, can climb the river safely past the power station.

The ESB Dam is a very impressive feature on the O’ Brien’s Bridge Loop Walks. Built as part of the Shannon Scheme it holds back the mighty Lough Derg and supplies two thirds of the original River Shannon to fee the Power Station at Ardnacrusha.

For more information log onto:

http://www.esb.ie/main/about-esb/ardnacrusha.jsp

Bridgetown (South East Clare) Agricultural Show

Sunday 28th July 2013

Annual Agricultural Show held at Bridgetown, Co. Clare, with events for horses, ponies, show jumping, cattle, novelty events and more.

A great family day out..!

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CONTACT:

Pat Duggan

Bridgetown,

O’Brien’s Bridge,

Co. Clare.

Mobile: 087-1312653

For more information log onto:

http://www.bridgetownshow.com/

MONALEEN

DESCRIPTION

Monaleen is located to the east of Limerick City, just off the Dublin Road, in Castletroy.

Castletroy is a rapidly growing and predominantly middle-class suburb of Limerick, Ireland; and is the largest suburb in Munster. Its population is estimated at 40,000 as of 2010.

Historically, the district was entirely separate to Limerick, and consisted of little development aside from the villages of Annacotty and Monaleen. With the creation of the University of Limerick, as well as the growth of Limerick itself, this began to change. Castletroy is one of the fastest-growing residential areas in Ireland and has now engulfed the old villages of Annacotty and Monaleen. Monaleen parish has one of the most beautiful buildings as its main landmark: Monaleen Church.

MONALEEN CHURCH

St Mary Magdalene’s is a small chapel built in 1879 to serve the most rural part of the city parish, St Patrick’s. It replaced an older church. The new parish of Monaleen was created in June 1971.A community by the name of Monaleen existed here for many years before 1873. In 1971 Monaleen Parish was founded in anticipation of the growth of Limerick’s suburbs. The parish was created on 8th June 1971 and quickly assumed an identity of its own, helped in great measure by the National School, the Credit Union and the GAA football and hurling club.

Mary Magdalene Catholic Church,

Monaleen Road,

Castletroy,

Co. Limerick,

Ireland

TELEPHONE – +353 61 330 974 ‎  

EMAIL – monaleenparish.org

 MONALEEN PARISH SERVICES:

SATURDAY (VIGIL MASS) – 7.00pm

 SUNDAY – 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm.

 MONDAY TO FRIDAY – 9.45am

MONALEEN IS A PARISH STEEPED IN HISTORY; INSCRIPTION ENGRAVED OVER THE MAIN DOOR:

 “D. O. M.
sub invocatione
B Marie Magdalenae
AD 1873″

Which is translated as:
‘’To God, most good, most great
under the invocation of
Saint Mary Magdalene
AD1873’’

MONALEEN CHURCH BELL

The inscription cast onto the outer rim of the bell is: “The gift of Miss Christina Kelly, AD1880 J Murphy founder Dublin”

LEANBH MEMORIAL GARDEN; MONALEEN CHURCH GROUNDS

Leanbh is the Irish word for Child, and represents a group of people dedicated to maintaining a memorial garden to children who have died. Leanbh was set up in September, 2001 by people who have gone through the terrible loss of a child, irrespective of age.

MONALEEN SCOUTING

The 33rd/40th Monaleen/Milford Scout Group was restarted in 2001 after a lapse of some years. They cater for almost 100 boys and girls in the Beaver (7 to 8 years), Cub (9 to 11 years), Scouts (12 to 15 years), and Venturers (16 to 18 years) sections.

 CONTACT -Denis Murray
PHONE – 061-331034

MONALEEN GAA TENNIS CLUB

Monaleen GAA Tennis Club is a small, two-court club attached to Monaleen GAA Club and located in its grounds on Schoolhouse Road.The tennis club is open, friendly and progressive with plans for major development in the near future. With affiliation to Tennis Ireland, a busy calendar sees the club involved in Munster Inter Club competitions, club opens, intra club competitions and social tennis events. These social events are an ideal way for new members to meet and play with other members without the need to have partners and opponents arranged in advance.

 For more details log onto:

www.monaleengaatennisclub.com

 MEN CONTACT

Michael Kahn
Phone: 061-371708

 LADIESCONTACT

Marian Vaughan
Phone: 086-3409008

JUVENILE CONTACT 

Maria Kelliher
Phone: 086-6078214

UI BHRIAIN IRISH DANCE CLASSES

Irish dancing classes take place each week in Monaleen National School. Learn to dance for fun and enjoyment. The classes run every Wednesday from 2.45pm to 3.45pm in the School Hall.

CONTACT SHARON

TELEPHONE – 086 8511460

EMAIL – sharonobrien74@gmail.com.

ANGLING

-          Shannon Mulcair and District Anglers Association.

-          Salmon/Trout Angling Club, based mainly on the Mulcair.

-          Annual competitions held in May and September.

CONTACT NEVILLE ATKINSON
TELEPHONE – 086-8174809

-          Limerick and District Anglers Association.

-          Salmon/Trout and coarse angling association, based mainly on the Mulcair and Shannon.

-          Competitions held all year round.

CONTACT EOIN BROCKERT
TELEPHONE - 086-8177688

For more information log onto:
EMAIL - limerickanddistrictanglers@gmail.com
WEBSITE - www.limerickanddistrictanglersassociation.com

MONALEEN GAA CLUB

Monaleen GAA Club was founded in 1957 and is one of the most famous Limerick clubs, having won county Senior, Intermediate U21 and Minor and Juvenile Football titles. We have also won Intermediate Junior A, B, Minor and Juvenile Hurling titles during its proud history. Our U14 Footballers have brought home 2 All Ireland Féile titles in the last few years. Our Scór Quiz team have captured the All Ireland title on three occasions.

Since 1957, the Club has been looking after the youth of this community in relation to our national games. The community is also indebted to the Club for providing a much needed focal point for community and social gatherings.

Monaleen G.A.A. Clubhouse is available to members and non-members for any forthcoming functions. Excellent facilities available and entertainment if required. Non-members feel free to call and enjoy a drink in the club’s pleasant surroundings..!

CONTACT

CLUBHOUSE MANAGER PAUDIE RYAN

TELEPHONE – 061-335977

 For more information log onto:

www.monaleen.gaa.ie

 SWIMMING/ FITNESS CLASSES

UNIVERSITY ARENA
The University of Limerick Arena has a 50m swimming pool open to the public and there are also wide ranges of fitness classes on offer. See the website below for more details.

PHONE: 061-213555
WEBSITE: www.universityarena.com

AISLING ANNACOTTY FC

Aisling Annacotty FC is one of the largest soccer clubs in Munster, having in excess of 550 members and fielding teams from under 7 to under 17, minor, three junior teams and an ever expanding ladies section.The Club caters for all ages.

CONTACT JOE POND, SECRETARY
PHONE: 087-6101615
EMAIL: joepondannacotty@gmail.com

For more information log onto:

www.aislingannacotty.com

 UL BOHEMIANS RUGBY CLUB

UL Bohemian RFC is an All-Ireland League Division 1A rugby club based in Limerick. It is affiliated with the University of Limerick.

The symbol of the club is the Red Robin. Tommy O’ Donnell Dave Kilcoyne David Foley Sean Henry Jj Hanrahan and Cathal Sheridan are the club’s current representative on the Munster squad.

They play some of their matches at Annacotty and the University’s Sports Arena, in addition to Thomond Park.

CONTACT DAVID FITZGERALD, HON. SECRETARY
PHONE: 087 2853686
EMAIL: honsec@ulbohs.com

For more information log onto:

www.ulbohs.com

PUBS IN THE MONALEEN AREA

THE HURLERS

Castletroy,Co. Limerick. Tel (061) 335272

THE SPORTS BAR

 University Court,Castletroy,Limerick. Tel (061) 332760

THE BLACK SWAN

Annacotty,Co. Limerick. Tel.(061) 336505

MJ FINNEGANS

Dublin Road,Annacotty,Co. Limerick. Tel.(061) 337338

MORRISONS BAR

Ballysimon,Co. Limerick. Tel.(061) 336350.

 BED & BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION

SANDVILLA BED & BREAKFAST

-          Warm welcoming haven off N7 & N24.

-          Landscaped gardens.

-          Award winning breakfast menu.

-          Orthopaedic beds, TV in rooms.

-          Near Castletroy, Kilmurry Hotels, University, Golf.

-          Shannon Airport 30 minutes away. 

ADDRESS:

Sandvilla B&B,
Monaleen road,
Castletroy,
County limerick.

PHONE: +353 (061)336484 

For more information log onto:

http://www.bandbireland.com/accommodation/2267/limerick/sandvilla-bed-and-breakfast.html

CASTLE MOOR BED & BREAKFAST

Castle Moor B&B is a charming bungalow set on the road from Dublin to Limerick – perfect for a stopover on your way to discover the West of Ireland.

Just 5 minutes from the University of Limerick, they have a number of fresh and spacious guest rooms, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, TVs, hairdryers and tea/coffee-making facilities. Some rooms look out over their peaceful gardens. The complimentary breakfast includes a tasty choice of continental options or a full Irish breakfast.

Castlemoor B&B,Rivers,Castletroy,Co. Limerick.

 CONTACT: GWEN MOUNSEY

TELEPHONE: 061-330789

For more information log onto:

http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Castle-Moor-B-and-B/Limerick/47160?sc_sau=sfab&sc_pos=6

http://www.castle-moor.com/

 HOTEL ACCOMODATION

KILMURRY LODGE HOTEL

Dublin Road,Castletroy,Co. Limerick.Tel. (061) 331133

CASTLETROY PARK HOTEL

Dublin Road,Co. Limerick.Tel (061) 335566

CASTLEOAKS HOTEL

Castleconnell,Co. Limerick. Tel (061) 377666

 UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE AREA

MAY:                                     Limerick River Festival

 AUGUST:                           Galbally Village of Tradition & Garden Fete

                                                   Kilmallock Medieval Festival

                                                  Limerick Agricultural Show at Patrickswell

APRIL & SEPTEMBER:        Eigse Michael Hartnett Literary Festival, Newcastle West

OCTOBER:                                  Cuisle International Poetry Festival, Limerick City