What is Ballyhass Lakes and what can you do there?
Ballyhass Lakes, part of the Ballyhass Adventure Group, offers outdoor activities at two locations in County Cork, Ireland: Mallow and Coachford. It is best known for its large inflatable water park, wakeboarding, 160m zipline, and axe throwing. The centres provide activities for families, groups, and individuals looking for an active day out.
What are the two Ballyhass locations in Cork?
Short answer: Ballyhass Adventure Group runs two separate sites in County Cork. The Mallow location focuses on water sports in a repurposed quarry lake, while the Coachford location is centered on forest, land, and height-based activities in a different quarry setting.
You can't do all the activities at one site, so it's important to know which location offers what you're looking for. They are about a 40-minute drive from each other, so picking the right one from the start is key to planning your day.
Ballyhass Mallow: the water sports hub
The original Ballyhass location is near the town of Mallow. This is the place most people think of when they hear "Ballyhass Lakes." Its main attractions are all based on or in the water of the two quarry lakes. This is where you'll find the famous inflatable aquapark that you see in all the photos. It also has Ireland's largest cable wakeboarding park, making it a popular spot for both beginners and experienced riders. If you want to get wet, Mallow is your destination.
Ballyhass Coachford: the forest adventure centre
The newer site is near Coachford, west of Cork City. This location was developed to offer a different set of experiences, primarily on dry land. Instead of a huge water park, you'll find activities that use the surrounding cliffs and forest. Coachford is home to the 160-metre zipline that sends you flying over the quarry lake, as well as axe throwing, archery ranges, and extensive high ropes courses. It’s the better choice for groups who prefer height challenges and skill-based activities over swimming.
What activities can you do at Ballyhass Mallow?
Short answer: The Mallow location is all about water sports. Key activities include the large inflatable aquapark, cable wakeboarding, ringo rides, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Most visitors come to Mallow for one of two reasons: the aquapark or the wakeboarding. You can easily spend half a day here trying just one of these, but multi-activity packages are also available if you want to make a full day of it.
The inflatable aquapark
The aquapark is a huge floating obstacle course. It has slides, climbing walls, trampolines, and balance beams all connected on the water. A session typically lasts one hour, which includes a safety briefing and fitting for a wetsuit and buoyancy aid. It's a physically demanding activity, so be prepared for a workout. It's suitable for anyone aged 6 and over who is a confident swimmer.
Wakeboarding and Ringo rides
Ballyhass Mallow has a system of overhead cables that pull you across the water on a wakeboard. This makes it much easier for beginners to learn than being pulled by a boat. They offer introductory lessons that get most people up and riding within an hour. While the aquapark gets all the attention, the wakeboarding introduction is arguably the best value for money if you want to learn a new skill. For a simpler thrill, you can also book a Ringo ride, where you're pulled across the lake on a large inflatable tube.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
For a more relaxed pace, you can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). This is a good option for families or individuals who want to enjoy the quarry lake without the high-intensity action of the other activities. You can explore the quarry's cliffs and calm waters at your own leisure. These activities are usually booked in one-hour slots.
What activities can you do at Ballyhass Coachford?
Short answer: Coachford focuses on land and height-based adventures. The main attractions are a long zipline, axe throwing, archery, high ropes courses, and climbing walls.
This location is designed for those who enjoy challenges involving heights, aim, and teamwork. It’s a great option for corporate outings, school tours, and groups of friends who want to stay (mostly) dry.
Ziplining over the quarry lake
The standout attraction at Coachford is the 160-metre zipline. It launches from a platform high on the quarry cliff and takes you across the lake to the other side. You get a fantastic view of the entire site on your way down. It's a quick thrill but a memorable one. The zipline is often included as part of a multi-activity package.
Axe throwing and archery
These target-based activities are very popular with groups. Instructors teach you the proper technique for safely throwing a hatchet at a wooden target or shooting arrows from a bow. It becomes quite competitive and is a lot of fun for friends or work colleagues. Sessions are fully supervised and last about an hour.
High ropes and climbing walls
Coachford has several height-based challenges. The high ropes course involves navigating obstacles and balancing on wires and planks several metres off the ground, all while safely attached to a harness. There are also climbing and abseiling towers built into the quarry cliffs, offering a range of difficulties for different skill levels.
Mallow vs. Coachford: which centre should you choose?
Short answer: Choose Mallow for water fun like the aquapark and wakeboarding. Choose Coachford for land and height activities like ziplining, axe throwing, and high ropes.
Your choice really depends on your group's interests and age. They offer very different experiences.
- For families with younger kids (6-12): Mallow is usually the better option. The aquapark is a huge hit with this age group, and kayaking is a great, calm activity for the whole family.
- For teenagers and young adults: Both are excellent choices. Mallow's wakeboarding park is a big draw for this group. Coachford's combination of ziplining and axe throwing offers a different kind of thrill that is also very popular.
- For adult groups or corporate events: Coachford often has the edge. Activities like axe throwing and the high ropes course are great for team building and friendly competition.
- If you hate cold water: Go to Coachford. While you get a wetsuit in Mallow, the water is always chilly. All of Coachford's main activities are on dry land.
How much does a trip to Ballyhass cost?
Short answer: Prices vary by activity, but you can expect to pay between €25 and €50 per person for a single session. Packages that combine multiple activities offer better value.
Costs can change, so you should always check the official Ballyhass website for the most current pricing. However, here is a general idea of what you might pay for popular activities.
| Activity | Typical Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Aquapark Session (1 hour) | €25 - €27 |
| Beginner Wakeboarding Lesson | €40 - €45 |
| Zipline (Coachford) | €20 - €25 |
| Axe Throwing (1 hour) | €25 |
| Multi-Activity Pass (e.g., Aquapark + Kayaking) | €40 - €50 |
Planning your visit: what to know before you go
Short answer: Book everything online in advance, arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time, and bring swimwear, a towel, and a padlock for the lockers.
A little preparation can make your day at Ballyhass much smoother. Here's what to do: book your activities online. As a rule of thumb, book your activities online at least a week or two in advance, especially for summer weekends. Popular slots for the aquapark can sell out completely.
You'll want to arrive early. You need time to check in, get changed, and attend the safety briefing. Arriving 30 minutes before your session start time is recommended. If you're late, you might miss your slot and they generally don't offer refunds.
For water activities, wear your swimsuit or swimming trunks under your clothes when you arrive. This saves time in the changing rooms. You'll wear a wetsuit over your swimwear. You should also bring a second towel for the car ride home; the first one will get soaked.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| Two distinct locations offer a wide variety of activities. | You can't do all activities at one site; requires travel between them. |
| Excellent facilities for beginners, especially in wakeboarding. | Can get very crowded during school holidays and summer weekends. |
| Online booking system is straightforward and easy to use. | Popular time slots sell out far in advance. |
| Activities are well-supervised with a strong emphasis on safety. | The water in the quarry lakes is very cold, even with a wetsuit. |
| Good options for both individuals and large groups. | Food and drink options on-site are limited. |
Common mistakes to avoid at Ballyhass
- Not booking ahead: Turning up on the day, especially a sunny Saturday in July, and expecting to get a spot on the aquapark is a common mistake. You must book online, and well in advance, to avoid disappointment.
- Arriving late: Sessions run on a strict schedule. If your aquapark slot is at 2 PM, that's when the session starts on the water. If you arrive at 2 PM, you've missed the check-in, changing time, and safety talk, and you likely won't be allowed to join.
- Forgetting a padlock: Lockers are available, but you often need your own padlock to secure your belongings. Bringing a small one with you is a good idea.
- Underestimating the aquapark: It looks like a bouncy castle on water, but it's a real physical challenge. Pulling yourself out of the water repeatedly is tiring. Don't be surprised if you're exhausted after an hour.
Alternatives to Ballyhass
If Ballyhass doesn't seem right for you or is fully booked, there are other options for adventure in the region.
- West Cork Secret: Located near Kilbrittain, this is another popular spot known for its muddy obstacle course, water slides, and team-building games. It's a less structured and messier alternative, which is great fun for certain groups.
- Zipit Forest Adventures: With a location in Farran Wood, Cork, Zipit focuses entirely on high ropes courses and ziplines set in a forest canopy. It's a better choice if you only want to do a treetop adventure.
- Cork Harbour Boat Hire: For a different kind of water activity, you can rent a self-drive boat and explore Cork Harbour. It's a more leisurely and scenic option compared to the high-energy activities at Ballyhass.
- Awesome Walls Cork: If the weather is bad, an indoor climbing centre like Awesome Walls in Cork City is a fantastic alternative. It offers climbing and bouldering for all skill levels.
Quick recap
- Ballyhass has two sites: Mallow for water sports (aquapark, wakeboarding) and Coachford for land activities (zipline, axe throwing).
- You must book all activities online and in advance, particularly for weekends and holidays.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled session time.
- Mallow is generally better for families with younger children, while Coachford is great for adult groups and team building.
- For water activities, bring a swimsuit to wear under the wetsuit, a towel, and a padlock for the lockers.
Frequently asked questions about Ballyhass
How much does Ballyhass cost?
A single activity session usually costs between €25 and €45 per person. For example, an hour on the aquapark is about €25, while a beginner wakeboarding lesson is closer to €40. Multi-activity packages are available and can offer better value.
What do you wear to Ballyhass?
For water activities in Mallow, you should wear a swimsuit or swim trunks under the provided wetsuit. For land activities in Coachford, comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes (like trainers) are required. Don't forget a towel and a change of clothes for after.
How long is the Ballyhass aqua park session?
The standard aquapark session gives you one hour on the inflatable course itself. The total time on-site will be longer, as you need to account for check-in, changing into your wetsuit, and attending the mandatory safety briefing before your session begins.
Can you swim in Ballyhass Lakes?
General swimming is not permitted. You can only enter the water as part of a supervised activity like the aquapark, wakeboarding, or kayaking. This is for safety reasons, as the lakes are deep former quarries. All participants in water activities must wear a buoyancy aid.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the two Ballyhass locations?
A: The main difference is that the Mallow location is focused on water sports, while the Coachford site specializes in land and height-based adventures. Mallow is where you will find the large inflatable aquapark and cable wakeboarding park on its quarry lakes. Coachford, on the other hand, offers activities like a 160-metre zipline, axe throwing, and high ropes courses in a forest and cliff setting. Since they are a 40-minute drive apart, it is important to book the correct location for the activities you want to do.
Which location is better for a family with young kids?
A: For families with younger children, typically aged 6 to 12, the Mallow location is usually the better choice. Its main attraction, the giant inflatable aquapark, is extremely popular with this age group and is suitable for anyone over six who is a confident swimmer. Mallow also offers calmer family activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Coachford's activities, such as axe throwing and high ropes, are often better suited for teenagers and adults looking for skill-based challenges.
How much does a day at ballyhass lakes cost?
A: A single activity session typically costs between €25 and €50 per person, though multi-activity packages provide better value for a full day. Prices can vary depending on the specific activity you choose, whether it's an hour on the aquapark or an introductory wakeboarding lesson. It is always best to check the official website for the most current and accurate pricing before your visit. Booking a package that combines several activities is often a more economical way to experience the centre.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer for the activities?
A: You do not need to be a strong swimmer for all activities, but it is a requirement for the aquapark in Mallow. The aquapark is a demanding floating obstacle course, and for safety, all participants must be confident swimmers and at least six years old. For activities like wakeboarding, you will be wearing a buoyancy aid. The Coachford location is an excellent alternative if you are not comfortable in the water, as its main attractions like the zipline, axe throwing, and high ropes are all on dry land.