Ryan Lodges is the perfect basecamp for exploring Galway this summer. Situated less than 5 minutes off Exit 16 on the N6 motorway, we are the ideal location to discover the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, Connemara and local villages.
Ryan Lodges is located halfway between the towns of Athenry and Loughrea and we advise guests to have their own transport in Ireland to make the most of their holiday.
Whether you’re a history buff or thrill-seeker, check out our blog below for the top 6 places you must visit in Galway.
Connemara National Park. Connemara National Park is not only steeped in ancient history, but it is also home to the famous Connemara pony, expansive mountains, bogs and lakes. Connemara National Park is staffed 7 days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm. Where staff are on hand to provide advice about the wildlife and trails. The visitors centre, entry to the park and exhibition are all free of charge. It’s important to know that dogs are welcome in the park but they must be kept on leads at all times in order to protect the local fauna and wildlife. Check out the Connemara National Park site here for more information. Time from Ryan Lodge: 2 Hour Drive
Kylemore Abbey. Built as a breathtaking gothic castle in 1868, Kylemore Abby has been home now to a community of Benedictine Nuns, for the past 100 years, who welcome and engage with visitors to tell Kylemore’s incredible story. Kylemore Abbey is one of Galway’s most picturesque offerings, with its rooms restored to their ornate former glory and grand Victorian Walled Garden. You can also browse their Craft and Design Shop for unique gifts including pottery and award-winning chocolates, made by the Benedictine nuns. You can visit here for more information. Time from Ryan Lodge: 2 Hour Drive
Lough Corrib. Lough Corrib is Ireland's largest lake, reputed to have 365 islands, featuring secluded beaches, forest walkways and plenty of opportunities for wild swimming. From Woodquay in Galway City, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Corrib and onto the lake providing unsurpassed views of the historic monuments and natural amenities that make this the most spectacular waterway in Ireland. If a leisurely stroll or fishing trip is more your style, Lough Corrib is abundant with Salmon and wild brown trout, there are many angling centres around the lake, where you can find equipment for hire as well as accommodation and local expertise. For more information, you can visit Discover Ireland. Time from Ryan Lodge: 30 minutes to an Hour Drive
Dunguaire Castle. Almost unchanged since its 16th-century construction, Dunguaire Castle sits across the bay from Galway City, near Kinvara. While a little off the typical tourist trail Dunguaire Castle is a must-see for foodies and film buffs alike. The castle is the lesser-known star of movies such as North Sea Hijack and Kurt Russell’s lesser-known Disney flick Guns in the Heather. For food and history lovers why not attend a banquet at the castle? With locally sourced food and fabulous entertainment a night a Dunguaire Castle is simply unmissable. For more information or to book tickets visit the website here. Time from Ryan Lodges: 30 Minute Drive
Kinvarra Village. A petit picturesque fishing village, Kinvarra is the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll around. For food lovers, we recommend visiting Moran’s Oyster Cottage to experience a family run business specialising in gigas oysters and other local seafood dishes. Travellers to Kinvara can also stop by Kinvarra Smoked Salmon, where you have the opportunity to taste fresh produce as well as learn about the wild Irish salmon and the traditional Irish way of smoking salmon. If you’re lucky enough to visit Kinvarra in August you can enjoy the Cruinniú na mBád Festival. The festival celebrates the living tradition of the sailing of beautiful Galway Hookers. This fabulous festival not only hosts the legendary turf boats but the village of Kinvara comes alive with Irish traditional musicians and singers. For more information on must-see sights in Kinvarra check out The Irish Roadtrip. Time from Ryan Lodges: 30 Minute Drive
Dún Aonghasa. Just one of the reasons to travel to the Aran Islands, Dún Aonghasa is a 3,100-year-old hill fort sitting at 100 metres or 328 feet over the spray of the Atlantic. The fort consists of three massive drystone defence walls. Excavations have revealed significant evidence of prehistoric metalworking, as well as several houses and burials. Visiting Dún Aonghasa involve a short hike over rough ground and natural rock, so it’s best to come prepared with good walking boots! For more information on guided tours and seasonal opening times visit Heritage Ireland. Time from Ryan Lodges: 1 Hour 20 Minute Drive to Doolin. From there you can take the ferry to Inis Mór.
No matter your travel style Martina and John, your hosts, are on hand to provide local knowledge and recommendations for places to eat, drink, visit and relax. Why not check out our Explore and Experience pages for more information on how to make your Galway visit unforgettable.
If you have any questions or queries about your visit or stay in Galway, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or send an email. We’re more than happy to help make your time in the Galway countryside as special as possible.