North Cork’s Ballyhoura Country is taking centre stage in the new Experience Cork campaign, launched recently by Pure Cork in partnership with Fáilte Ireland. The campaign encourages visitors to explore the county through authentic experiences, from rugged outdoor adventures to locally produced food and craft.
For Ballyhoura, two local businesses are helping tell the story: Ballyhass Adventure Centre, known for its high-octane outdoor activities, and Praline, the award-winning chocolatier in Mitchelstown. Together, they show that North Cork is about more than scenic landscapes, it’s a place where adventure meets flavour.
Visitors can take to the trails of the Ballyhoura and Galtee Mountains, test themselves on ziplines and aquaparks at Ballyhass, and then round off the day with handcrafted chocolates from Praline. “Everything we do at Praline is rooted in quality and craft,” says Norma Kelly. “Being part of this campaign gives us a chance to share the food story of North Cork and welcome visitors to our corner of Ireland.”
Ballyhass Adventure Centre is equally passionate about getting people outside. Emma Mueller explains, “It’s not just about adventure, it’s about really experiencing Cork. Whether it’s cycling, climbing, or trying something completely new, we want people to leave with memories, not just photos. Being included in Experience Cork lets us share that with a wider audience.”
The campaign comes at a time when Ballyhoura is increasingly recognised as a gateway to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Marie Healy of Fáilte Ireland notes that the area offers “a mix of adventure, natural beauty and culture. From mountain bike trails to woodland walks, or tasting the local produce, there’s a chance to connect with both the landscape and the people.”
Ballyhass and Praline are among 16 Cork businesses chosen for the initiative, highlighting the county’s diverse experiences from the Wild Atlantic Way to Ireland’s Ancient East. For visitors, curated itineraries make it easy to plan a weekend getaway or a longer stay, combining outdoor pursuits with local food, craft, and culture.
Whether it’s the thrill of adventure at Ballyhass, a walk through rolling hills and forests, or sampling Praline’s chocolates, Ballyhoura Country proves that North Cork is ready to welcome visitors looking for something beyond the usual tourist trail.