For anyone with more than a passing interest in all things equine the Slieve Aughty Riding Centre is a name that resonates with East Galway. Primarily a riding centre, Slieve Aughty also houses a language school that is extremely popular with European students.
Now the centre is taking an innovative departure by opening the Three Towers Eco House and Organic Kitchen. Esther Zyderlaan, who owns the centre came to Ireland in the 1970’s and began making cheese, which was sold at the Galway market. The business has steadily grown over the years and now her daughter Merel is also involved.
Three Towers Eco House and Organic Kitchen, was formally opened by Minister Shane McEntee. There was an enthusiastic crowd present as Minister McEntte highlighted the importance of initiatives such as this. “This kind of business is vital to rural areas where we can maximise our reputation as providers of excellent quality food to tourists. I am delighted that Esther and Merel have decided on the organic route and having seen the excellent facilities here I am sure that their Organic Kitchen will be a showcase for local organic produce”.
The centre is certified by IOA and Gillian Westbrook, General Manager, IOA said that “it is fantastic to see such a stunning example of rural initiative. This is why we need a strong Pillar 2 rural development programme as part of the new CAP. It shows the potential for small businesses to be dynamic in a rural environment. IOA wish the Three Towers every success for the future”.
—————————- ENDS ——————————
For more information please contact;
Gillian Westbrook
General Manager IOFGA
Tel 087 7819967
Grace Maher
Development Officer IOFGA
Tel 087 6125989
Notes to editor:
“The Three Towers Eco House project has been part-funded by Galway Rural Development under the European Agriculture Fund for Rural Development: Europe Investing in Rural Areas”.
For more information please visit;
