Beyond Galway City : Savoring Ireland’s Scenery in the Far West
Staying a night or two in Galway is commonplace on many trips to Ireland, and for good reason! However, few travelers venture much further North or West than the city before heading either South, towards Kerry and Cork, or East to Dublin and their return flight. In fact, we were among the former on our first trip to Ireland in 2016. When planning for our most recent trip, though, we were determined to see new, lesser traveled parts of the country beyond Galway City - into Counties Galway and Mayo.
The Best of Galway City
Unlike Dublin, which sprawls for miles, Galway City is very compact, yet it packs just as much (if not more) fun punch - especially when it comes to music, entertainment, and nightlife. Though there are not as many significant historical points of interest in the town, simply relaxing near the harbor or the South Park Pier makes for lovely people watching.
The Place to be on Weekends
We make it a point to be in the city on a Friday and/or Saturday night. The city comes alive. The streets fill with locals, foreigners, and Irish tourists on hen & stag parties. Live sports are on in every pub. There is a feeling of energy about the town that is tangible. And while you will pay a pretty penny to stay in the city center, it is a must!
Get Local on the West Side
Most of the city, and almost all of the tourist restaurants and bars lay comfortably in the area known as the Latin Quarter, East of the River Corrib. Yet, as is often the case, the best things and the more local experiences, are tucked away from these areas. Make the short walk across the river, into the grimier, grittier side of town and spend all evening there. It has that perfect mix where hip eateries sit next to chic cafes which are next door to dive bars. Accommodation will often be a bit cheaper on this side - we stayed in a basic AirBnB above Massimo Bar and it was a perfect location.
TIP : (we received from a local, and confirmed ourselves) The absolute best, most authentic music can be found in The Crane Bar (head to the second floor).
Easy Day Trips and Activities from Galway
Breathe in Connemara National Park
The natural beauty of the Connemara is breathtaking and has three distinct regions - lakes, mountains, and coastline. I think the area is a microcosm of Ireland as a whole, geologically and topographically speaking. If you are into hiking, biking, sea kayaking or any adventure sport, the options are limitless - check out these amazing options.
Walk with Alpacas at Curraghdugh Farms
Really, alpacas in Ireland? Yes, absolutely! The farm is run by an English husband/wife who quit their day jobs to slow down and live simpler in the Irish countryside (sounds nice, right?). The property is absolutely astonishing - with amazing lake views, expansive grounds, and even glamping pods. You can choose between a meet & greet experience, taking the furry guys on a walk, or even practice yoga with them. You must reach out ahead of time, via Facebook or AirBnB.
TIP : If you are staying in Galway, it is about 1 hour to 1.5 hours drive straight up the N59 (and the host provides excellent directions). If you are lucky, you may spot a tiny, pink truck on the roadside along the drive called “Mama No Drama.” If you are so lucky, you will want to pull in and grab a delicious coffee - try the concoction of the day, it will not disappoint.
Journey back in time on Inishmore
This was the highlight for each of us on our most recent trip to Ireland. A bit hard to get to, like all good things, Inishmore is part of the Aran Islands, and is (almost) exclusively reached via ferry from Rossaveel (about 1 hour from Galway City). Once you arrive, a few minutes walk or bike ride and you are immediately transported back in time. There are several Bronze Age forts on the island, the most famous of which is Dun Aonghasa. Here you can stand on the edge of the world, if you have nerve enough, in exactly the same manner as those who built the structure 3,000 years ago. The beauty and history of this site far surpass that of the Cliffs of Moher on the mainland. Though we did not, I would definitely like to spend the night on the island. I’m told, each evening, after all of the day trippers have left, the island residents and traditional music fills the two pubs!
Stay in Charming, Local Towns
Clifden
As you stroll the quaint, triangle shaped town center, complete with a lovely fountain, music from a band fills the air - jubilant laughter and convivial conversations provide a lively harmony. You will have your pick from many pubs with well priced food and pints - most of which have seating outside. Stop at any, or many - it won’t take long for you to strike up conversation with the locals. You may be the only foreign tourists in town!
Westport
You notice the topography of Westport quickly. The main town center slopes dramatically toward the Carrowbeg River. Built into the hills and along the river are very well preserved, Georgian-era facades that give the town a unique charm. Inside the facades are dozens of cafes, pubs, and shops all very alive with energetic townspeople. While still relatively small and off the main tourist route, Westport will see a few more foreigners than Clifden.
Adventure Even Deeper
From both Westport and Clifden, there are a number of exceptional experiences and beautiful areas to explore.
Marvel at Kylemore Abbey
Built in the second half of the 19th-century, the main structure exemplifies the architecture of the Romantic age. It is still a working home to Benedictine Nuns, and the grounds and interior are open to the public.
TIP : If you are coming from Westport, definitely check out Killary Fjord along the way which acts as the border between County Mayo and County Galway.
Build a Totem at Eyreport Beach
Besides the occasional surfer, you will likely have the place to yourself. About as far West as you can go on mainland Ireland, the rocky beach is accessed from a small, free parking lot all the way at the end of road - just make sure you go to the end of the correct road, or you may be backing all the way up a steep, hedge-lined dirt path (I speak from experience!).
Drive the Sky Road & Stay at Clifden Bay Lodge
Acting as the main artery, Sky Road loops together many sites near Clifden, including Clifden Castle and some amazing Bed & Breakfasts. For a truly awe-inspiring view, stay at Clifden Bay Lodge on Lower Sky Road. It offers comfortable accommodations at unbeatable prices, bay views, and is just about 10 minutes to Clifden.
Eat Oysters Direct from the Sea
This area is well known for oysters - almost all of the restaurants in Clifden will get a few dozen each day, and when they are gone (and they will be), they are gone. However, if you want something even more fresh than a couple of hours, head to a local Oyster Farm. Here you will learn about oysters and their ecosystem & eat some directly from the ocean.
TIP : Check out Traveling Spoon before you go on any trip. It is a great tool to find authentic meals, in-home cooking classes, and traditional culinary classes in destinations around the world! Just click the logo below to get started.
Sail to Inishmore (see above)
From Clifden, it is only about 1 hour to Rossaveel, where the ferry to Inishmore departs. Use Clifden as an alternate base for a trip to the Aran Islands (that is exactly what we did!).
Slow Down, Savor
We went from spending 1-night (about 14 hours total) in Galway City on our first trip to staying over 3-days in the area on our most recent trip. Of course this meant some locations from the prior itinerary were shortened or eliminated altogether, but it was 100% for the better. The West of Ireland has so much natural beauty and charm to offer in quite a small/compact area. It is well worth spending significant time here! Visit the remote beaches and trails; chat with locals in otherwise fairly tourist-free towns; savor the sea.