Arthur Wilson
Here are 5 places you should visit the next time you find yourself in Galway!
Located just off Galway and Doolin is The Arans—a group of three rocky isles known for their romantic landscapes and Celtic Churches. When you set foot on the place, you will get a glimpse of Ireland’s rich history and culture, as it is the location of several Bronze Age and Iron Age forts, including Dún Aonghasa—a semi-circular stone fort that sits on the edge of a 100-meter cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. There is a variety of activities you can do here, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming.
This 11-acre woodland-style open-air museum will take you on a journey through the ancient Celtic calendar, as each of the attractions here represents a festival—Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine, and Lughnasa—that marks the end of a season. Dedicated to Brigid, the goddess of the earth and fertility, the garden features the largest Celtic sundial calendar in Ireland, a Celtic nature trail, Celtic writings and ogham trees, an ancient fairy fort, a Crannog, and several kinds of roundhouses.
In the southeastern shores of Galway Bay sits a stunning 16th-century castle that has inspired some of the greatest writers in Ireland, including W.B. Yeats, J.M. Synge, and George Bernard Shaw. Here, you can learn more about Irish literature, as it served as a venue for meetings of literary revivalists during the 1920s, or experience a traditional medieval banquet during one of their famous themed dinners.
The ‘Prom,’ as the locals call it, is the longest seaside promenade in the country. It is approximately 2km long, making it a prime spot for a relaxing stroll or a long-distance jog along the sea. On good days, it offers a fantastic view of Galway Bay and The Arans, while in the afternoons, it boasts of a dreamy view of the sunset. When you visit this place, make sure you ‘kick the wall’ at the end of the promenade, as it is believed that it will bring you good luck.
This bustling traditional market has been operating the in heart of the city for centuries. It is the perfect place to listen to live music and pick up all sorts of goodies, from fresh produce and ready-to-eat foods to clothing, jewellery, and handmade crafts. It is typically open all-year-round on Saturdays and Sundays.
There are plenty of reasons why you should see these attractions — from their interesting history, accommodating locals, picture-perfect views, and close proximity to a number of affordable hostels in Galway. You surely won’t regret visiting them, as they’ll give you memories that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
Galway is one of the most interesting places in Ireland, so it is no surprise that it is considered as one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. Situated in the province of Connacht, the city has plenty of attractions to boast of - from natural wonders and historical sites to lively streets and good food spots too.
Here are 5 places you should visit the next time you find yourself in Galway:
