I will be attending the Galway Arts festival in July, and would like to conclude my time there with a 2-3 night stay at a relaxing, coastal hotel. The catch is that my friend and I don't drive -- we dont mind traveling by bus, or hiring a car to drive us somewhere, but would prefer to find a beautiful, relaxing spot within a two hour drive from Galway. We want a place with fantastic views and great food. Thanks for any suggestions you might have!
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2828 posts
A trip over to Inishmore is an excellent suggestion. The Aran Ferry company operates a shuttle (for a fee) from central Galway out to the landing at Rossaveal, and once on the island local transportation can be easily arranged. Would be a great choice for 2 or 3 nights.
Posted by
76 posts
I'll be the third person to give the nod to Inishmore. The Aran Islands Hotel is in a great location, and not far from the ferry pier. Bike rentals and restaurants are also nearby. Exploring the island is a breeze.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thanks for this terrific suggestion. A follow-up question then: I was under the impression that accommodations on the islands was quite rustic. Is there a nice (not necessarily fancy) hotel out there -- a place where we'd be able to get dinner and cocktails?
Posted by
76 posts
The link in my post is for the Aran Islands Hotel, which is voted the best accommodations on the island. Nothing pretentious, or snooty, and they have a restaurant and bar. There are other restaurants within walking distance.
-Russ
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
If you like the Aran Islands recommendation, you can book the Rosaveal ferry to the Inishmore online. It asks if you also need a bus connection from Galway so you can get all the way there without separate bookings. I booked the Pier House in Kilronan, which is a short walk from the pier. You can take a horse and cart, taxi van or bicycle to the sights on the island (Inishmore is 8 miles long).
Another option is where I'm staying right before Aran Islands. I had considered Clifden as a quieter option than Westport, then settled on Roundstone as an even quieter option. It's a very small town overlooking the coast. The bus will take you everywhere in Ireland. This is under two hours, by car, from Galway. I'm not sure how long the bus ride would be?