Why Galway is Great

Galway is one of six Western Counties of Ireland and its dramatic coastline, rolling green pastures and beautiful mountains means for many visitors it represents the real essence of Ireland. It’s an area where as a visitor you will experience Gaeltacht – the Irish language and a real insight into the history and heritage of Ireland.  It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland and thousands of worldwide visitors take a trip to Galway.  Galway City is known as the ‘City of Tribes’ a nickname dating back to the 13th century and derived from the fourteen tribes, or merchant families. These were Norman lords who settled in Ireland and very quickly became integrated into the Gaelic nobility and Irish culture. The old families were the families of Athy, Blake, Bodkin, Browne, D’Arcy, Deane, Ffont, Ffrench, Joyce, Kirwan, Lynch, Martyn, Morris and Skerret; and their tribal flags can still be seen flying in Eyre Square today.

Islands and Mountains

On your visit to Galway you will see a diverse landscape. From the enchanting Aran Islands to the dramatic fields and mountains of the Connemara National Park or the bustling city of Galway.  We think making the often choppy crossing from Rossaveal to the remote Aran Islands is well worth it. There are three islands that make up the Arans – Inis Mor, Inis Mann and Inis Oirr. You’ll be free to explore the islands wonderful patchwork fields, discover ancient monuments and gaze at the stunning islands cliffs. And although Gaeltacht is still spoken here and history and culture abound today’s Aran Islanders ensure that there’s a vibrant and lively social life –especially on Inis Mor, the largest and most developed of the Aran Islands.  Join the nightly music sessions and regular dances, and even experience currach racing. Our top 5 things to do or see on Aran are 1) take a walk along an Aran Island lane  2) visit Dun Aonghusa the prehistoric stone fort and world heritage site  3) buy a beautiful Aran jumper, made on the Islands  4) see the amazing swirling worm hole near to the village of Gort na gCapall  5) people watch in Killronan village.

A ‘must do’ on your Galway holiday is a is a visit to the wonderful Connemara National Park. Connemara is considered to be one of the most unspoilt and spectacular regions of Ireland and is a unique area of outstanding natural beauty. The Park covers some 2,000 hectares (4942 acres) of scenic countryside, with a diverse and rich wildlife, all in the shadows of the Twelve Bens. This is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with exhibitions, nature trails and in summer a programme of walks, talks and special events for younger visitors. Walkers, golfers and fishermen are well catered for in Connemara but if you’re wanting a more relaxing holiday here are our top 5 things to do in Connemara 1) take a trip into the Glengowla silver and lead mines  2) relive history at the spectacular Aughnanure Castle  3) Take a stroll along Renvyle Beach  4) Learn about the regions past at the Connemara Heritage and History Centre  5) Experience the taste of Ireland at the Connemara Smokehouse Ballyconnelly, which specialises in wild and organic salmon, smoked and marinated.

Homes and Heritage

Just as Galway’s landscape is beautiful and diverse so are its towns and villages. Throughout Galway’s history different generations built and created homes across the county, from old crofter’s cottages to Georgian gentlemen’s residences. A fantastic way to experience and learn about how some people lived and worked in the past is to spend a day at the Connemara Heritage and History Centre. In 1992 Martin and Nora Breathnach established the heritage centre on their Connemara hill farm.  Dan O’Hara’s restored pre-famine cottage is at the heart of the centre and forms the back drop for farming, crafting and home-keeping exhibitions and demonstrations.

Staying in Galway

Accommodation in Galway has come along way since Dan O’Hara’s homestead but even though you might want 21st century home-comforts you don’t want to lose the beautiful settings and views that abound in the Galway countryside.  There are many Galway cottages to chose from and using a company, such as www.imagineireland.com that specialises in Irish holiday cottages means that you’ll be able to take advantage of local knowledge and know how when booking to ensure that you find your perfect holiday home in Galway.