ATTRACTIONS – cultural and historic

Aughnanure Castle - Built by the O'Flahertys c.1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib.  Standing on what is virtually a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. In addition, visitors will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour.

Athenry Castle - Athenry is one of the most notable medieval walled towns surviving in Ireland, owing its foundation to Meiler de Bermingham who built his castle there c.1250.

The battlements are original 13th century work with tall arrow loops or slits in the solid sections or merlons. Imagine yourself back in history with a visit to this castle!

Dun Aonghasa – visit this attraction for an outdoors tour of the largest of the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands. Perched spectacularly on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic ocean, this is one to wrap up for beforehand! Members get Group Rate at all OPW Heritage sites.

Patrick Pearse’s Cottage – Patrick Pearce (leader of the 1916 Rising) used this small cottage as a summer residence and summer school. Overlooking the breathtaking lakes and mountains of Connemara, this restored cottage is a piece of Irish history. Members get Group Rate at all OPW Heritage sites.

Aran Island Ferries – Aran Islands have preserved their ways and visitors can see the old ways of life that have disappeared from modern Ireland. Found in the heart of Galway Bay, the Islands' raw beauty and charm  boasts breath-taking scenery, early Christian ecclesiastical ruins, medieval castles, prehistoric stone forts, sandy beaches, cliffs, fresh air, unique flora and fauna (a dream for botanists!) and a rich folklore and stories ensuring visitors return time and time again. Members get a 10% discount for all bookings.

Connemara Heritage Centre - Connemara has plenty of megalithic stones, tombs, stone and earth forts. Alongside this there are early Christian churches and castles too – some of which are still lived in! For a fascinating glimpse of the past, make for the Connemara Heritage and History Centre at Lettershea, near Clifden.

Kylemore Abbey - the number 1 tourist attraction in the West of Ireland – Kylemore Abbey is a truly stunning sight. With a Gothic church, incredibly maintained walled gardens, tearooms and the magnificent abbey itself – this is an attraction not to be missed!  Don’t forget your camera! Members are entitled to a reduced admission of €7.00

Erislannan Riding Centre - at Errislannan Manor in Clifden Riding and trekking on the famous Connemara ponies takes place by the hour each morning from Monday to Friday inclusive. For members the price is only €30 per person for 1 hour ride, trek or lesson including free garden visit

Use your Hostelling International Membership card to receive discounts in the following attractions in the area:

1.    Athenry Castle

2.    Aughnanure Castle

3.    Dun Aonghasa

4.    Patrick Pearse's Cottage

5.    Errislannan Riding Centre

6.    Aran Island Ferries

7.    Dan O'Hara's Homestead-Connemara Heritage & History Centre

8.    Kylemore Abbey

9.    Great Outdoors

ACTIVITIES

Nightlife and Eating out: There is something for everyone in the heart of the diverse and culturally aware city of Galway, which Lonely Planet has described as 'Dublin's cooler little sister'. Whether you enjoy live traditional  Irish music, up and coming Irish bands and  DJs, theatre performances, night clubs and pubs, sitting outside a coffee shop and watching the world go by, or enjoying one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year, you will see why Galway captures the heart of so many visitors to Ireland.

The staff at reception are delighted to offer advice on eating out, what pubs to visit, and the best places to hear live music in Galway City!!

Ask at the Reception for some ideas on where to go during your time in Galway!