Where the Galtees are
The Galtee Mountains run east-west between Tipperary town and Mitchelstown, north-west of Clonmel. The highest point is Galtymore at 919m — the tallest inland peak in Ireland. The range is shorter than the Comeraghs and Knockmealdowns but steeper and more dramatic.
From Clonmel: 40 minutes by car to the southern Galtee approaches via Cahir.
The riding
The Galtees are about endurance. The Coillte forestry on the south side gives you a network of fire roads that climb hard. The ridge line is technically rideable in dry weather by confident riders but most of the time you'll be on the lower forest network.
Expect long fire road climbs — 30-50 minutes of going up is normal — and descents that reward riders who can keep speed through rough ground. The terrain is rougher and more exposed than the Comeraghs.
This is big-country riding. Take more food and water than you think you need, and tell someone where you're going.
Conditions
The Galtees catch weather. Above 500m it can be cloud-locked even on a clear day in the valleys. Best riding May to September. Winter rides on the high ground are for experienced riders only.
Getting in
From Clonmel: north-west on N24 to Cahir, then west toward Mitchelstown. Multiple Coillte forest entries on the south side of the range — Glen of Aherlow approaches from the north.
The Glen of Aherlow is a scenic valley with parking and trail heads, but most of the popular forest entries are on the south side of the range off the R663 and R665.