Laois Tourism Attracting Gets €250k For Glamping

Monday, 15 September 2025 06:56

The funds will go to glamping units and horse drawn wagon rides.

Laois is set to get a tourism boost through a brand new glamping experience.

Making Tracks is opening up in Ballybrophy following a funding boost of €250,000.

The new hostel is offering glamping units alongside horse drawn-wagon rides at the revamped former Ballybrophy House.

The project secured its funding through Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, which is co funded by Government and the EU through their Just Transition fund.

Angela McEvoy, Director of Services at Laois County Council said:

“I am delighted to see the opening of Making Tracks, a fantastic addition to the varied tourism offering in County Laois, particularly in the west of the County and in such close proximity to Ballybrophy Train Station one of two Age friendly Stations within the Country. The creation of sustainable enterprise across the county is a key objective for Laois County Council and we are pleased to support this tourism initiative which will provide employment opportunities locally and bring more visitors to Laois to experience the hidden treasures we possess.”

Regina Dunne, EU Just Transition Fund Tourism Activator in Laois said:

“This project delivered by Ian Hyland and his team is strategically placed to support the eco-conscious tourist looking for authentic experiences and slow tourism while also being mindful of their carbon-footprint and impact on the environment in which they visit. This project showcases the huge potential for low carbon, sustainable, and alternative accommodation offerings to thrive in rural Laois.”

Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland, said:

“We’re so pleased to see the opening of Making Tracks in County Laois today. This project is a perfect example of how Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme is enhancing the tourism offering and creating new opportunities in destinations across the Midlands. By delivering unique, low-carbon experiences and quality accommodation, it strengthens the region’s appeal for both domestic and international visitors. It also highlights the transformative impact that initiatives like the EU Just Transition Fund can have on rural tourism development. We look forward to continued collaboration with local tourism businesses and communities, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), and our strategic partners as we deliver further projects under this scheme over the coming year.”

Clare Bannon, A/Director of Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly said:

"This project is a fantastic example of how EU funding can be used to create a truly innovative Tourism product. Supporting such tourism initiatives through the EU Just Transition Fund is crucial for economic diversification in the Midlands, fostering new opportunities for growth and resilience within our communities."