Barretstown • Ireland

In 1994, Hole in the Wall Camps founded its first camp in Europe.  Barrestown is housed in a fairytale castle that sits in the beautiful foothills of Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains. Children from more than 20 European countries with serious health conditions come to Barretstown to participate in life-changing therapeutic recreational programs. 

Barretstown’s Therapeutic Recreation program rebuilds confidence, trust and self-esteem through a fun, activity based process of challenge, success, reflection and discovery.  It is informed by a number of disciplines, including recreational therapy, adventure-based counseling, occupational therapy, psychology and education. Children and families are eager to participate.  It is this participation - facing challenges, broaching difficult subjects, taking risks, enjoying new experiences - overseen by an experienced team, which leads to the therapeutic benefits of the program such as enhanced self esteem, confidence, self-image, tolerance, understanding and coping skills.

Barretstown adopted a holistic approach to its program recognizing the impact of serious illness on the entire family. They have sessions at camp that include sibling camps, family weekends and bereavement programs.

Since its founding in 1994, Barretstown has provided more than 16,000 children with the Hole in the Wall Camp experience.