Galway, Connemara & County Mayo

Richly historic, the bohemian city of Galway heaves with remnants of medieval history, lively Irish pubs and Gaelic culture. Galway Cathedral and the Spanish Arch are amongst the town’s most interesting sights, and the Galway City Museum tells the story of this colourful port.

The stunning Killary Harbour is Ireland’s only glacial fjord, running a deep slice between Counties Galway and Mayo. Enjoy a 90-minute boat trip on the harbour, which is surrounded by the majestic mountain landscapes of Connemara to the south and Mount Mweelrea to the north, which are burnished with shades of gold and green. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the fjord’s resident pod of dolphins.

Kylemore Abbey is a dramatic neo-Gothic castle dating back to the Victorian era. Originally built thanks to the romantic vision of a wealthy businessman who was enamoured by the wilds of Connemara, it has been home to Benedictine nuns since the 1920s. With a picturesque location on the shores of Lough Pollacapall, the abbey also has a 6-acre walled garden – the largest in Ireland.

The foundations of this grand property lie in the 16^th century – it was once a castle built by the infamous Pirate Queen of Connacht, Grace O’Malley. The current Georgian stately home was built upon the castle ruins in the 18^th century, and boasts classical symmetry and beautiful balustraded terraces. Inside, the house is architecturally stunning with fascinating collections, including fine antiquities and paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds.