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Galway

22nd Jun 2019

The Ultimate Galway Summer Bucket List For 2019

James Fenton

Galway is gorgeous any time of the year but whenever summertime rolls around, things go up another level.

From the winding city streets to the hills of Connemara, there’s always plenty to do and it’s well worth taking a week off work to explore it all.

While there, keep this handy guide nearby as it covers everything from where to have a nice drink of a summer’s evening to places to have a refreshing dip in the sea.

Take your pick!

River Corrib Boat

Sit back and relax on this luxurious boat as you’re taken out from the city to Lough Corrib and back again.

Spin to Kinvara

Just a 40-minute drive from Galway City, Kinvara is a picturesque seaside village with a number of great restaurants lining the streets.

While there, you’ll have to try the pizza at Enoteca Il Molo. Read more about it here.

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Have a drink outside

Galway City is heaving with great pubs and with most streets around the Latin Quarter pedestrianised, it’s easy to have a wander about and pick the best place to sit down.

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Eat at Ard Bia

Right next to the Spanish Arch you’ll find one of the most scenic places to eat in the city. This spot has a great menu and allows you to take in some great views of the river on a sunny day.

We’ve covered Ard Bia at Nimmos before and you can read more about it here.

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Visit Dog’s Bay

It’s not an exaggeration to say that some of the most stunning views in the country can be found at Dog’s Bay.

The mile-long beach is located close to the village of Roundstone and boasts crystal clear waters ideal for swimming or taking part in water-based activities.

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Afternoon tea at Ballynahinch

Deep in the Connemara Hills lies Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, one of the most luxurious settings you’re ever likely to step into in Ireland.

Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the Owenmore Restaurant, overlooking the Ballynahinch River. Guests can then embark on a walk around the surrounding woods and even try their hand at fly fishing, all under the watch of an expert guide.

More information here.

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Dive off Blackrock Diving Tower

A definite must-do on the list of Galway activities. Whether you want to cool down at the height of summer or feel the icy chill over the winter months, diving off Blackrock Tower will refresh your senses for sure.

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Pub crawl in Clifden

Clifden is a long old drive from Galway city but when you arrive it’s completely worth it. No matter what of the year it is, the pubs are always hopping with tourists and locals alike.

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Take a boat to the Aran Islands

If you feel like getting off the mainland, there are a number of companies which offer trips to the nearby Aran Islands.

Most journeys take around 40 minutes.

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Have a gin in Tigh Nora

Have a leaf through the Gin Bible before choosing your tipple for a summer’s evening. Located right in the middle of the city on Cross Street.

More information here.

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