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Galway City Break
Galway, a beautiful county divided by the expanse of Lough Corrib. To the south lies Galway city with its seaside suburb of Salthill, a bustling hub of activity and a gateway to the scenic areas of the county such as Connemara, a region of superb scenic grandeur, inspiration for many paintings and the famous Maam Cross, from this junction the roads lead to everywhere, head west for America!!!
Though primarily known as the ‘city of the tribes’, Galway is renowned for its many festivals. Neatly tucked between the Galway Film Fleadh, an international film festival and the Galway Races Festival, sits the Galway Arts Festival one of the biggest events on the Irish arts calendar. Just when you think it’s all over, in September the Galway International Oyster Festival steps up with plenty of music, dancing, talks and exhibitions.
From speaking Gaeilge to Golfing, Shopping to Shark Fishing, Horse Fairs to Hill Walking, Galway City and County will delight you whatever you choose...
Places of Interest
Vibrant Galway City absolutely explodes with charisma. Inextricably linked with history, culture and particularly music, Galway has a beat uniquely its own!! As with any City visit, the best way to start has to be the ole’ Bus Tours. During summer, a tour departs from the Galway City Tourist Office, 091 537700.
Located on the west bank of the Corrib Estuary, sits a thatched cottage village called The Claddagh, famous for it’s ‘Ring’ which features two hands holding a heart that wears a crown. Come and learn the History, but be careful how you wear the ring, if you wear it on the right hand with the crown turned outwards you may find yourself with an Irish Sweetheart!!
For the visitor who likes the fine things in life a visit to the Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre is a must. Learn about Galway’s rich and vibrant culture before being introduced to the intricacies of the crystal making process and the influences that lead to these beautiful creations. www.galwaycrystal.ie
Children in the 2-102 bracket will love this place! The Atlantaquaria. For a great day out visit Irelands National Aquarium on the seafront promenade of Salthill. From Conger Eels to Spider Crabs, see the huge range of marine life from the coastline of Ireland in really exciting and stimulating surroundings. www.nationalaquarium.ie
If you are looking for true inspiration then a visit to the home of the Irish Benedictine Nuns at Kylemore Abbey could be the answer. Set in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, stroll through the reception rooms, visit the Gothic Church or the six acre walled Victorian garden. Prayer requests are welcomed during your visit. www.kylemoreabbey.com
Take a step back in time when you visit Dan O’Hara’s Heritage & History centre. See how the celts use to live in a Crannóg, an Archaeological Site, and Ringfort. Available by request you can cut some turf or toss some sheaves, for those of you not feeling so energetic a guided tour in a carriage will take you to see a typical prefamine farmstead. www.connemaraheritage.com
We Irish are famous for our Horse Culture. Dartfield, Ireland’s Horseworld, Museum and Equestrian highlight the relationship between the Irish Folk and their beloved Horses. Set on 350 acres of parkland in east Galway, Dartfield owns the largest herd of Connemara ponies in the world and there are activities and amenities to suit all ages including nature trails and carriage rides. Various events run through the year. www.dartfieldhorsemuseum.com
Steeped in History, St Brendan the Navigator founded a monastery at Clonfert in South Galway which at its peak housed over 3,000 monks, all that remains today is the Cathedral. The 12th Century doorway with its exceptional carvings is magnificent. Take a stroll through the cruciform yew walk reputed to be over 1,000 years old and sense the monks in silent prayer as they went before you!
Where to eat and stay
Cashel House Hotel
Cashel House Hotel, formerly one of Connemara's most gracious homes, stands at the head of Cashel Bay, withdrawn and quietly secluded, in a 40 acre estate of flowering shrubs and woodland walks.
Currarevagh House
Old fashioned (in the best sense of the word), Currarevagh House is a Victorian country manor romantically situated on the shores of Lough Corrib in 150 acres of private woodlandoffers guests 4 Star Quality Guest Accommodation, on the shores of Lough Corrib.
Glenlo Abbey
The main house itself dates back to 1740 and was built by the Ffrench Family who were one of Galway's Famous Fourteen Tribes who ruled the City for centuries. The stone cut Abbey was built in the 1790's but was never actually consecrated.
Rosleague Manor
A delightfully situated Georgian house overlooking Ballinakill Bay, which has been discreetly converted into a first-class hotel with a Victorian style conservatory and delightful drawing rooms with open log fires. All of the bedrooms are individually decorated and feature fine antiques and paintings.
Ireland's Blue Book of Country Houses & Restaurants
7/8 Mount St Crescent, Dublin 2. Ireland
Tel: (+353) 01-6769914 | Fax: (+353) 01-6314990 | Email:enquiry@irelandsbluebook.com
