Guide to County Galway in Ireland

County Galway

Galway is located in the west of Ireland within the province of Connacht and contains Ireland's fourth biggest city, Galway City. The county area is the second largest on the island (after Cork) measuring 6,148 kmē. Most of the large Lough Corrib is in Galway, as are the Aran Islands in Galway Bay. The traditional Irish (or Gaelic) language is still spoken and actively encouraged in many outlying parts of the county.

The City of Galway stands on the River Corrib and it now has a very large student population, the city environs being home to two major universities, the National University of ireland and GMIT. Galway city is reputedly the "safest" city in Ireland returning lower crime statistics than any comparable Irish city. Architecture in the city comprises an eye-catching blend of well-maintained ancient property alongside many very recent but sympathetic newer developments. The quayside follows the trend of the county in general by offering excellent value seafood dishes in its eating houses. Just 10 miles south of the city, the world famous Moran's Oyster Cottage is an example located near to Clarinbridge at the Weir in Kilcolgan. The county can be accessed easily from Galway Airport which is a mere 6 kilometres to the east of the city.

Outside of Galway city, the main towns are Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Athenry and Clifden. Other Galway towns which are well worth a visit include Ahascragh, Ballygar, Carraroe, Claregalway, Cloonboo, Craughwell, Dunmore, Eyrecourt, Glennamaddy, Gort, Headford, Killimor, Kilronan (on Inishmore Island), Kinvarra, Monivea, Mountbellew Bridge, Moycullen, Moylough, Oranmore, Oughterard, Portumna (with a marina on Lough Derg), Roundstone, Spiddal, Tuam (home of the Saw Doctors musicians) and Woodford.