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County Galway

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About County Galway

County Galway embodies the traditional, slightly wild beauty many visitors look for when they come to Ireland, with vast green expanses and beautiful wind-swept coastlines. Galway city on the other hand is colourful and lively with an exciting live music scene. The best places to stay in County Galway are equally contrasting, in the city the best hotels are chic and contemporary affairs while the countryside has an eclectic range of converted country houses, lodges and castles which make perfect bases for an outdoor break.

The region is a great place to experience the old traditions of Ireland - be it language, food or classical Irish sounds. Foodies should head to Galway Bay which is renowned for its oysters and there are also a great range of country pubs in which you can sample quintessential Irish cuisine.

For adventurers the Aran, Inisheer and Inish Oirr Islands just off the coast have a real off-the-beaten-track feel. While travellers driving would be wise to plan to explore the Connermara Peninsula for an exceptionally dramatic road trip. The winding roads follow the inlets of the coastline, past hidden beaches and through almost hidden villages.

With so much to experience here it is a remarkable destination for the avid traveller. Our list of the best places to stay in County Galway includes a wide variety of properties to suit most tastes and budgets.

The best places to stay in County Galway

For urban chic

  • Located just outside Galway, The G offers 5-star luxury in contemporary style. The interiors are carefully designed by Philip Treacy and flaunt brightly coloured spaces, leaving the rooms more calm and restful. A stone’s throw away from Galway’s main attractions.
  • In the heart of the city you will find The House Hotel. Again, brightly coloured and full of new-age designs, the hotel captures the Galway character without being pretentious. A great choice to experience the city’s nightlife.

For Stunning Countryside

  • Ross Lake House Hotel is an elegant countryside manor house surrounded by golf courses, coastline and the Connemara National Park. A definite must for those looking for scenic treks or a game of golf.
  • If you’re looking to stay in a more traditional setting, Rosleague Manor in County Galway is the choice for you. Elegant bedrooms feature antique furniture, four poster beds and large bathrooms. Enjoy a cosy evening in the conservatory while being served some of the best Irish seafood dishes.
  • The Lough Inagh Lodge is a cosy country house with great big armchairs and lounges full of books. Also a good option for long walks along the Western Way of the region.
  • To enjoy the picturesque banks of the Lough Corrib, stay at the Currarevagh House. This traditional country house hotel is perfect for a peaceful escape and fly fishing on Lough Corrib.

For a castle retreat

  • Experience the enchantment of rural Ireland at the Ballynahinch Castle. Close to the Ballynahinch Lake, this castle converted hotel has a warm ambiance and sumptuous locally produced meals. A great place to fish and take long walks on the castle grounds.

For Families

  • The Connemara Coast Hotel is a luxurious contemporary hotel that's just perfect for a family getaway. There's an indulgent spa and two restaurants for the adults and kids club (open for morning and evening activities) and outdoor playground for the youngsters.

For an apartment or cottage

  • If you've decided that you'd prefer to book a villa or apartment, we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com, where you'll find a wide range from budget to boutique.

Travel Information

  • Although there are no direct flights to Galway, the city is accessible from Shannon Airport and Ireland West International Airport. For international flights, reach Galway from the main Dublin Airport.
  • Alternately, there are frequent buses that travel to Galway city from Dublin.
  • The best time to visit the rural parts of the county are between April and October. If you are keen on a more urban experience, Galway city is open all year round for excellent food, drink and cultural pursuits.
  • If you decide to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best price.

Still not sure?

  • Browse through our selection of the best places to stay in County Galway.
  • Expand your search to include all our properties in County Clare.
  • Or contact, one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in County Galway

Best Hotels in County Galway

  • Connemara Coast Hotel Galway, County Galway 141 rooms from AU$178

    Country Escape  -  Set on the Wild Atlantic Way and the shores of Galway Bay, a rugged spot to explore picturesque Connemara from
    Families  -  With a kids club, outdoor playground and excellent family accommodation, this is ideal for a family break.
    Kids Club  -  There's a kids club for morning and evening activities which is open during the school holidays.
    Spa  -  There are a wide range of holistic treatments and therapies available
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    A luxurious contemporary hotel boasting a spectacular setting overlooking the dramatic Connemara coastline. Chic interiors are fresh and modern with large expanses of glass to fully take in the views. There's also an indulgent spa and two restaurants. A spoiling option for a rural getaway. See More

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  • The G Galway 101 rooms from AU$183

    Suites  -  The hotel has 3 remarkable "specialty" suites designed by Philip Treacy, with spectacular views
    5* Luxury  -  The only truly 5 star hotel in Galway
    Restaurant  -  The restaurant offers a very extensive array of Irish dishes and European cuisine
    Sights nearby  -  Five minutes from Galway centre
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurant
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Kiwi Collection

    Extraordinary contemporary five star hotel just outside Galway. Interiors designed by Philip Treacy feature brightly coloured (some might say garish) public spaces, whilst rooms and suites are more restful. Stunning views out to sea, great food & ESPA. All a stone's throw from Galway's attractions. See More

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  • The House Hotel Galway (The Latin Quarter) 40 rooms from AU$194

    City Style  -  Within walking distance of vibrant nighlife
    Sights nearby  -  Situated right in the centre of town within easy walking distance of all major attractions
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Short break
    Restaurant

    The House Hotel is contemporary, without being pretentious, and situated in the heart of the city centre, offering good food and bright, lively accomodation with all the attractions of Galway on the doorstep. The Hotel is especially well situated for Galway's nightlife and ideal for romantic breaks See More

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  • The Twelve Barna, County Galway 48 rooms from AU$204

    Hideaway  -  Set in a charming village on the Galway coast with a spa and acclaimed restaurant, this hotel makes the perfect luxury bolt-hole
    Local exploring  -  There is lots to explore close to the hotel; see the coast on a long walk or rent bikes in the village and explore nearby Galway
    Families  -  This hotel caters to families well, with spacious family suites that can accommodate children
    Great walks  -  Take a long walk and discover the best coastal paths on this stretch of the Irish coast; enquire at the hotel for routes
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A modern hotel in the quaint village of Barna with a destination restaurant and one of Ireland’s finest wine lists. Sophisticated guestrooms and spacious suites. The location, a stone’s throw from Barna pier is perfect for a brisk morning walk after a hearty breakfast in Pins Gastro Bar. See More

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  • The Quay House Co Galway, County Galway 15 rooms from AU$228

    Active Holiday  -  With great opportunities for hiking, fishing and cycling in the area, this hotel makes a great option for active holidaymakers
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the period details and unique décor at this family-run B&B; book a harbour-view room for added romance
    Local exploring  -  Explore the coastline and the pretty town, with easy access from this seafront bolt-hole
    Great walks  -  Try the Derrigimlagh/Marconi walk, a 5km trail across blanket bog over a rugged and wild landscape
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    Experience traditional Irish hospitality at this heritage hotel on the coast of Galway. Family heirlooms and an open hearth make for a warm welcome. Upstairs, guestrooms are period themed, featuring lovely antiques, a fireplace and rich linens. A beautiful B&B, perfect for a weekend by the sea. See More

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  • Ross Lake House Hotel Rosscahill, Co Galway, County Galway 10 rooms from AU$228

    Golf  -  Oughterard Golf Club, Barna Golf club, Galway Bay Golf and Country Club and Ballyconnelly Links Course.
    Active Holiday
    Sights nearby  -  Cliffs of Moher and magical Connemara with its mountains and lakes.
    Great walks  -  Connemara National Park with its walks and mountain climbing.
    TennisRestaurantGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    An elegant countryside manor house surrounded by golf courses, coastline and the Connemara National Park. Traditional bedrooms and suites have four poster beds and fireplaces. A great choice for an active holiday in style. See More

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  • Rosleague Manor County Galway 20 rooms from AU$228

    Country Escape  -  Ideal spot for blowing out the cobwebs, with the National Park and coastal walks and cozy fireplaces to return to
    Fishing  -  With the "Brazen Hussy" company
    Great walks  -  Through Connemara Loop route
    Traditional
    RestaurantGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Fodors, Good Hotel Guide

    Traditional country house. Elegant bedrooms feature antique furniture, four poster beds and large bathrooms. 30 acres of woodland grounds, conservatory and sitting room with fireplace. Great dining with focus on seafood. See More

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  • Lough Inagh Lodge Galway, County Galway 12 rooms from AU$275

    Country Escape  -  On the shores of Lough Inagh, with fishing, country walks and outstanding views
    Great walks  -  Along Western Way which commences in Oughterard and goes to Westport via Leenane
    Fishing  -  In the two Loughs, Derryclare and Inagh for salmon, sea trout and brown trout
    Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Cosy country house. Traditional bedrooms have armchairs, great views and floral furnishings. Fireplace and book-filled lounges. Good seafood and wild game dishes from the restaurant and welcoming bar. See More

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  • Currarevagh House County Galway 12 rooms from AU$293

    Total relaxation  -  Set in a peaceful, undisturbed natural environment, it's perfect for a relaxing escape.
    Local exploring  -  Well located for exploring the vast beauty of Loch Corrib and Connemara.
    Great walks  -  Beautiful walking routes in the surrounding 180 acres of woodland.
    Tennis  -  Guests can enjoy a game of tennis on the house's court.
    TennisRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A charming country house hotel on the picturesque banks of Lough Corrib. Retaining it's traditional feel, the rooms are decorated with period wallpapers and antique furnishings. Perfect for a peaceful countryside escape. A lakeside idyll. See More

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  • Ballynahinch Castle Co. Gallway, County Galway 48 rooms from AU$318

    Country Escape  -  Outstanding fishing opportunities, miles of walking stunning paths, roaring fireplaces and nearby castles to see
    Great walks  -  Take a look around the Castle's picturesque shores of Ballynahinch Lake and woodland
    Fishing  -  From February to September the estate offers a fantastic fly fishing experience
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Castle hotel with warm and sumptuous ambience. Bedrooms feature four poster beds, creamy furnishings and gorgeous bathrooms. Great restaurant with local, seasonal produce: fresh fish, wild mushrooms, woodcock and cosy pub for an afternoon. Outstanding outdoors activities; the ideal country weekend. See More

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  • The Galmont Galway 269 rooms from AU$389

    Local exploring  -  A decadent base with easy access to the culturally exciting Galway
    Spa  -  Spriit One Spa boasts a Thermal Suite, relaxation area and wide range of treatments.
    Restaurant  -  Marina's Restaurant has wonderful bay views and has been awarded one AA Rosette
    Great walks  -  Get out of the city and hike in the rugged Connemara countryside
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A large, unabashedly contemporary hotel well placed in a quiet spot yet within walking distance from vibrant Galway. Spacious modern rooms have large expanses of glass from which to take in the sea views. Featuring an award-winning spa, indoor pool and two restaurants; an indulgent city escape. See More

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  • Screebe House County Galway 10 rooms from AU$346

    Country Escape  -  Set in a Victorian country house on the banks of Camus Bay, book this hotel for an idyllic Irish escape to the country
    Romantic Break  -  Couples rate this heritage hunting lodge highly; book the spa suite for a luxurious spa bathroom
    Hideaway  -  With a secluded setting and a spa, bar and restaurant onsite
    Fishing  -  The hotel offers guests exclusive fishing in Connemara on its system of loughs and lakes, and will provide all necessary permits
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    This former Victorian hunting lodge is set on the shore of Camus Bay within its own mature gardens. Country charm pervades the guestrooms, bedecked in floral print and period antiques. Curl up by the cosy sitting room fire after a day out fishing or check into the spa for a revitalising treatment. See More

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  • Glenlo Abbey Hotel County Galway 50 rooms from AU$365

    Country Escape  -  Set on a charming country estate with an acclaimed golf course, book this hotel for your next escape from the city
    Local exploring  -  With easy access to Galway, and plenty of natural beauty around the hotel, there is lots to explore here
    Foodies  -  Foodies will love the stylish Pullman Restaurant, housed within a former train carriage
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    This luxury hotel is located on a peaceful country estate in Galway, on the banks of Lough Corrib. Guestrooms have period furnishings in keeping with the 18th-century property; book the Presidential Suite for opulent living space. Spend a day on the hotel's acclaimed golf course; a stylish retreat. See More

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