County Galway Information

The county has its small own airport, based in the town of Carnmore, which connects to various domestic and international airports. There is also a direct train between Dublin and Galway city, and various inter-county bus services. The motorway system between Galway and Dublin is excellent.

History & Landscape  

County Galway stands as one of the most historic and traditional Irish counties. It is situated in the province of Connacht, has a population of approximately 250,000 and also boasts several large, Irish speaking regions (Gaeltacht areas). Galway city's summer festivals (including the Arts Festival,Galway Races and the Oyster Festival), are especially famous. It has a buzzing, lively nightlife year-round and the range of accommodation is excellent, if a little pricey in the summer festival season.

Galway's history and civilisation reaches back to approximately 5000BC. Originally divided into different factions and kingdoms, it became County Galway under individual rule in the mid-16th century.  There are many castles located in County Galway. These include Annaghdown Castle, which was constructed in the 14th century on the shores of Lough Corrib, Dunguaire Castle near Kinvara, which hosts medieval banquet evenings and Kilcolgan Castle, whose origins trace back to the 11th century. This historic castle overlooks Galway Bay and is very popular amongst tourists and fans of heritage.

Galway retains a largely scenic and grand landscape. Lough Corrib is Ireland's second largest lake and covers a vast area of approximately 166 square kilometres. The lake has an excellent reputation amongst local fishermen and tourists, and is known in particular for its beauty and range of wildlife.

The Twelve Pins mountain range, a collection of sharp peaked mountains in Connemara is further evidence of Galway's natural charms. The steep incline of the mountains conducts rainfall into various streams and natural rivulets, many of which join to form more substantial pools at the mountain's base. Its highest peak stands at 729 metres, and is a popular attraction amongst walkers, ramblers and hikers visiting Galway.

Accommodation

Galway has a variety of beautiful country houses such as Renvyle House Hotel which have had their interiors refurbished in a more contemporary style. Many hotels and guest houses are highly rated, with a unique fusion of cultural charm and modernisation. Kilmurvey House is a spectacular instance of this, on the stunning Inis Mór Island. An 18th century manor house, it has stunning views of the Aran Islands, and also offers the opportunity of extensive walking and cycling. 

Galway City has a wealth of accommodation from the modern G Hotel to simple B&B accommodation.

The various towns of County Galway pride themselves on providing traditional Irish food made with fresh and locally sourced produce. The county also has a renowned fondness for oysters, and indeed holds various oyster festivals at the beginning of the Oyster Season.