The Aran Islands
September 19th, 2006For anyone looking to enjoy some traditional Irish culture, a trip to the Aran Islands is an absolute must. There are three islands: Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer, and the largest, Inishmore is just 13km long and 3km wide. The islands have formed from a limestone ridge, and their isolation has allowed traditional Irish culture to thrive. The landscape of the Aran Islands is particularly striking, with lush fields crossed by stone walls, beautiful cliff walks and lovely beaches.
Coole Park
September 17th, 2006Anyone taking a relaxing break in the West of Ireland should devote some time to visiting the lovely Coole Park, near Gort in County Galway. This land was once the home of Lady Gregory, although, unfortunately the beautiful estate was demolished in the 1950’s. Thankfully, the beautiful gardens and farm remain untouched, and they are well worth a visit. The charmingly manicured gardens boast some lovely woodland, and a popular attraction is the ‘autograph tree’, a copper beech tree that boasts the initials of Jack Yeats, JM Synge and George Bernard Shaw. There are also two signposted trails, which begin at the fascinating Visitors’ Centre.
Connemara National Park
September 17th, 2006Connemara National Park offers visitors some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. The park is a mixture of mountains, lakes and boglands, and it stretches for more than 5,000 acres. At the heart of the park is the beautiful valley of Glanmore, which is crossed by the Polladrik River. Connemara National Park boasts some impressive examples of megalithic tombs, some of which are 4,000 years old. The park is open throughout the year, while its Visitors’ Centre is open between March and October. Two signposted trails lead from the Visitors Centre. The area is famed for its population of semi-wild Connemara ponies, which, legend has it, are descended from Arab stock, having come ashore from the wrecks of Spanish Armadas.
The Square Pub
September 17th, 2006Located in the beautiful and quiet town of Clifden, The Square Pub is the perfect place to make a relaxing pit stop while exploring the country’s west coast. This pub is famously friendly, and though popular amongst locals, visitors are always welcome to enjoy a tipple next to the cosy peat fire. The Square Pub is always busy, and it boasts live music throughout the summer. This large pub also serves delicious food throughout the day.
Kinvarra village
September 15th, 2006Kinvarra is a lovely fishing village in the west of Ireland. Located in County Galway, the village rests on Galway Bay, close to the monastic settlement of Kilmacduagh. The village is lined with charming, brightly painted cottages, with a picturesque harbour at its centre. The village boasts welcoming pubs and numerous restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood from the local area. Visitors to Kinvarra can enjoy wonderful scenic and historic walks, with plenty of nature trails to entertain nature lovers.
The Couch Potata Restaurant
September 13th, 2006Located close to Eyre Square in Galway City, Couch Potata is a restaurant which celebrates Ireland’s favourite food: the potato! This restaurant offers a huge number of dishes, all centred around the humble spud. All dishes are hearty, portions are huge and prices are inexpensive. The Couch Potata restaurant boasts a simple, bright décor, and an atmosphere that is friendly. The restaurant has a loyal following amongst locals, and it is extremely popular amongst the city’s younger residents. See restaurants in Galway for a full guide to all Galway restaurants.
The Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
September 13th, 2006Located in stunning landscape, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is a lovely luxury hotel in the centre of Connemara. The hotel is ideal for anyone who hopes to relax and enjoy the beautiful Connemara landscape. It is situated in 350 acres of woodland and it rests on the banks of the lovely Ballynahinch Salmon River, in the valley of the Twelve Bens Mountain. Rooms are elegantly decorated with four-poster beds, and they offer visitors the chance to relax in a luxurious, yet cosy atmosphere. The Ballynahinch Castle Hotel also boasts a lovely restaurant and the quaint Fisherman’s Pub. The hotel is ideally located for scenic walks, fishing trips and wildlife watching.
Inishbofin Island
September 12th, 2006The island of Inishbofin is located off the coast of County Galway. In the 7th century, island was chosen by exiled English Abbot St Colman for its remoteness, and today, the island still feels distanced from the mainland. On the site of St Colman’s original monastery, visitors can find a lovely medieval church, well and graveyard. Resting in the harbour of Inishbofin Island is the impressive ruins of a castle, which, in the 16th century was occupied by Spanish Pirate Don Bosco. The island boasts a number of pretty beaches, and it is surrounded reefs and islets, making it a popular destination for divers.
The GPO nightclub
September 11th, 2006For those interested in enjoying a night out in Galway City, a trip to the GPO nightclub is a must. A restaurant by day, the Drumbar area of the club becomes the perfect place to see the city’s finest DJs by night. The GPO nightclub boasts hectic dance floors, inviting bars and a relaxed chill-out area. Featuring a varied list of performers, the club attracts household names, as well as supporting up and coming artists. Located on Eglington Street in the heart of Galway City, the GPO nightclub is the perfect location for a safe and fun night out.
Eyre Square
September 8th, 2006In the heart of Galway City lies the newly redesigned Eyre Square. The square surrounds a charming park popular with both tourists and picnicking locals alike. The striking buildings surrounding the square mainly date back to the 19th century. On the north-western side of Eyre Square is the Browne Doorway. This is an entrance from a mansion on Abbeygate Street Lower, dating back to the 17th century. The square is a handy landmark for negotiating your way around Galway City, and it is located close to bus and train stations and numerous hotels.