Nestled on 17 acres of rugged Galway countryside along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Slieve Aughty Centre stands as a pioneering family-owned eco-lodge with over 35 years of sustainable hospitality excellence. This certified organic destination seamlessly blends equestrian adventures with environmental conservation, featuring Ireland’s westernmost organic-certified restaurant, diverse accommodations from eco-lodges to unique glamping options, and miles of pristine walking and cycling trails.
Guests experience authentic Irish countryside living through horse riding, forest exploration, farm-to-table dining and immersive nature programs. The centre supports local community initiatives and demonstrates a strong commitment to renewable energy, waste reduction and wildlife preservation. It operates within a designated Special Protection Area for threatened hen harriers.
Their story
For over 35 years, Slieve Aughty Centre has been a family-owned vision brought to life by passionate founders who believed in creating harmony between humans, horses, and nature. Starting as a small equestrian facility, the centre gradually evolved through dedication and environmental consciousness. What began with organic gardens and horse riding expanded to include sustainable accommodation, Ireland’s only certified organic restaurant in the west, and innovative eco-friendly practices.
Through partnerships with environmental organizations like CELT and community initiatives, the founders transformed their dream into a certified ecotourism destination that champions responsible travel while preserving Ireland’s natural beauty. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The eco-lodge utilizes locally harvested timber for heating, features double-glazed windows and thick insulation to minimize energy consumption, and incorporates natural lighting through strategically placed skylights.
- The property consistently recycles construction materials, with two chalets built entirely from reclaimed timber, roofing and bricks from the original guest house.
- The center’s wastewater management employs a natural puraflo peat moss treatment system, while rainwater collection supports stable and garden operations.
- Wind-generated electricity powers the facility, and the organic certified garden eliminates pesticide use across 17 acres.
- The centre transforms building waste into art projects and new construction materials, creating a circular economy model that significantly reduces environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge utilizes wind-generated electricity from Airtricity, while buildings feature large windows and skylights to maximize natural daylight, reducing artificial lighting needs.
- Double-glazed windows and thick insulation in new construction minimize heat loss.
- Supplemental heating comes from wood-burning stoves using timber harvested on-site.
- Energy-efficient lighting replaces older bulbs systematically.
- The centre air-dries laundry 95% of the time and ensures appliances are turned off when not in use.
Pioneer in waste management
- The property composts food waste on-site and minimizes packaging waste by growing its own organic produce and sourcing locally.
- The center uses only 24 wheelie bins annually, planning to reduce this further each year.
- All plastic, glass, and tin materials are recycled, with paper waste composted or repurposed as kindling for their wood-burning stove.
- Building materials are recycled into art projects and new construction, demonstrating their commitment to circular economy principles.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The property embodies organic living through its certified organic restaurant—one of only two in Ireland.
- The center grows over an acre of chemical-free vegetables and fruits on-site, sourcing additional ingredients locally and organically.
- Their eco-friendly approach extends beyond food to cleaning products, using only natural detergents and avoiding synthetic chemicals throughout the property.
Actively protects nature and community
- The centre actively preserves designated Special Protection Areas for endangered hen harriers while maintaining native hedgerows and bog plants.
- Community engagement flourishes through the Kylebrack Walkers Group, organizing forest cleanups and environmental education programs for local schools.
- Guests participate in organic gardening workshops and nature trails, fostering deep connections with Ireland’s countryside.
- Their partnership with CELT environmental training organization reinforces commitment to sustainable tourism. By encouraging land-based travel with 5% discounts for non-air transportation, supporting local craftspeople, and employing community guides, Slieve Aughty creates authentic cultural exchanges while minimizing carbon footprints and protecting Ireland’s natural heritage for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Slieve Aughty Centre
- Horse riding lessons for all levels from age 5, including arena work and forest trekking.
- Guided trail rides through scenic mountain forests for beginners to advanced riders.
- Lead rein rides and pony experiences to the magical Enchanted Forest for children.
- Miles of walking and cycling trails across 17 acres of rugged Galway countryside.
- Organic gardening workshops and nature education programs.
- Clay oven pizza making and organic cooking classes using garden-grown ingredients.
- Wildlife observation and bird watching in designated conservation areas.
- Traditional craft workshops combining horsemanship with artisan skills.
- Forest meditation and yoga retreats connecting guests with nature.
- Educational eco-tours highlighting sustainable farming and conservation practices.
- Seasonal festivals including Easter, Halloween, and Christmas celebrations with family activities.
HOW TO GET THERE – read our guide on Ireland airports
Best Time To Visit Slieve Aughty Centre
- The best time to visit Slieve Aughty Centre is from April to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
- Spring brings the Easter Festival and blooming gardens, while summer offers the famous Friday Pizza Parties in the Italian garden.
- Autumn provides stunning forest colors perfect for photography and peaceful walks.
- The centre operates year-round with indoor accommodations and cozy eco-lodges, making winter visits possible for those seeking tranquil retreats by the wood-burning stoves.