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John and Breeda Moran of Ballyboy House, Clogheen in their beautiful gardens, which are open all year around. Photo: Sandra Quinn

On March 18, 1991, John and Breeda Moran first opened Ballyboy House in Clogheen as a guesthouse and since then, the business has grown and developed to become what it is today.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Knockmealdown Mountains, the Georgian house is a wonder to behold, while the idyllic gardens, lake and tea rooms set it apart as a gem in the heart of South Tipperary.

John was a thriving cattle farmer until his herd was hit hard by an outbreak of TB and the couple took a leap of faith and decided to venture into forestry just over ten years ago.

Just last year, Minister Tom Hayes made a presentation to them to recognise their outstanding contribution to forestry and agri tourism.

John has had to turn his hand from dairy farming to forestry, but over the years, it has become his passion and they now have more than 28 hectares of planted forestry, while Breeda’s passion can be clearly seen in the beautiful planted garden that stretches across two hectares.

Every summer, they open the gardens for a special fundraising event to raise money for the Irish Wheelchair Association and St Theresa’s Hospital in Clogheen, taking place this year on June 28 and 29, but Breeda stressed that the gardens are open to the public all year round.

Overlooking the river, the gardens are a wonderful treat for green fingered enthusiasts or those who enjoy relaxing country walks, while a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of the cake of the day is a great way to top off any day trip.

Breeda told The Avondhu that they get visits from cycling clubs passing by and active retirement groups, but she would love to see more young people, families and children coming out.

John and Breeda also recently developed a polytunnel and John stressed that it would be wonderful for young children to see where many of the foods they buy in packets actually comes from.

As the summer weather starts to set in, this is the perfect time of year for visitors or local people who have yet to discover the magical beauty of Ballyboy House to discover what it has to offer and take a lovely summer’s afternoon to meander along the garden paths and discover the beauty that is tucked away under the mountains.

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