We will be in Galway for about 2 1/2 days. I do not want to cram in too much, so can someone tell me, with two full days, is it possible to see the Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher and Westport without it being rushed/hectic? Cliffs of Moher is non-negotiable, but if I had to choose between the Aran Islands and Westport, what would you recommend? We also want to be able to enjoy Galway, so is a half a day on the first day enough to explore Galway (plus the evenings after touring in the day)? I have two friends who both rave about Westport, and I saw that it's just a few hours by bus from Galway, so I thought we may want to go spend the day there... Opinions? What sort of itinerary would you follow for daytrips? (We're not looking to change our home base of Galway.) Thanks!
Posted by
New Hampshire
182 posts
Amy, I'd agree with Will on this. I think you should take a pass on Westport this time around. If you're more a city person, you could certainly just stay around Galway. But if you like to see and experience the beauty of Ireland, I'd go with your other plan and do the Aran Islands.
While Westport would be great to visit, there also much to see on the Aran Islands. Visit Dun Aengus, take a bike ride or horseback ride. The views are beautiful there. The ferry to and from does eat some time, but we enjoyed our time in the island.
Posted by
Kirkland
223 posts
Amy, my wife and I just returned from Ireland and spent 3 days each in Galway and Westport. Bad weather kept us from visiting the Aran Islands. Westport was our favorite stop (we were there a month), but understanding you want to use Galway (consider using the Hop-on Hop-off bus for a good 1/2 day overview) as your base, I honestly don't think you have enough time to do Westport this trip. You'll simply spend too much time going and returning. 2 1/2 days will be tough because each stop really needs a full day. So, assuming 1/2 day in Galway, I'd suggest you book a day tour to the Cliffs of Moher that includes a visit to the Burren (it's on the way.) Depending on the weather, either visit the Aran Islands for a day or book a tour through the Connemara. The Connemara isn't mentioned often, but is an incredible area north and west of Galway. You could also rent a car for your days to the Cliffs or the Connemara.
Posted by
OP
Clarksville, TN, USA
959 posts
I really appreciate this advice! I think we'll skip Westport and just do the other two. I did consider a tour of the Cliffs as it also brings us to the Burren and stops in a few other towns. I love the idea of biking on the Aran Islands. I assume there is a TI that will give us some info to do a self guided tour? I really wish they had a bike tour, but I couldn't find anything. Any recommendations on a tour of the Cliffs and Burren is appeciated. We will not be renting a car while we are there. My husband has made it clear that he will not drive in Ireland and it will ruin our vacation if I drive and have to listen to him criticize my driving. ;)
Posted by
New Hampshire
182 posts
Amy
Check out this page of the Aran Island website. It mentions the bike idea and also has a link to a map of the island. When you enlarge the map you'll see it probably shows you alot of what you may want to see/do. I'm sure the bike shop will also offer advice.
Posted by
Puyallup, WA, USA
881 posts
If you can't get get the Aran Islands due to weather - as happens, hop on over to Westport, and Croagh Patrick. :) chris