County Galway and, in a particular, Connemara are for the Irish, the spirtual heart of Ireland; for the rest of us it might be the world's end, the most beautiful wilderness on earth. It is the Gaeltacht area, where you will find Irish spoken by most of the locals. Much of Ireland's folklore and legend start here amongst the soft, wind-honed, rock strewn hills and placid loughs beneath a vast and endless sky. In dramatic contrast, the ragged coast, ripped and ravaged by time and tide presents diversions of every kind to inspire the poet, painter or hiker camera in hand. The countryside mellows as you travel inland towards the loughs of Mask and Corrib but the magic stays with you.

Oughterard, according to the humerous Irish writers Somerville and Ross ( Ross being Violet Martin who was born close by Ross Lake House Hotel ),"is the best village for its size of Galway". Today, it is a lively market town and centre, it seems, for every outdoor pursuit including fly fishing, golf and sailing; walking too, the Western Way footpath along the banks of Lough Corrib is spellbinding.

Kinvarra Harbour:
A charming fishing village close by a 16th century Dunguaire Castle, where medieval banquets are on offer with Irish singing and dancing.

Clifden:
"Capital" of Connemara, hosts the annual Connemara Pony show ( a unique breed ), a jolly event with plenty of singing and Irish jigs in traditional cloths. Aviators Alcock and Brown made their historic landing nearby in 1919.

Galway City:
This is a strategic maritime city with a fascinating history. Columbus visited as did many Spanish merchantmen making it is the centre of Ireland's wine trade. The city has a busy schedule of festivals including the famous Oyster festival and the Galway races. Not to be missed!

Kilmacduagh Abbey:
Kilmacduagh Abbey has several interesting church buildings. The roofless 12th century cathedral has some wonderful carvings; the leaning tower is 11 / 12th century and the best preserved in Ireland.

Aughnanure Castle:
The 16th century stronghold of the O' Flahertys who terrorised the population of county Galway. A stunning location on Lough Corrib.

Sea, game and coarse angling, riding, walking, cruising, watersports, cycling and sightseeing.

Galway Bay, Parkland Championship course, 18 holes, 7147 yards, Par 72. Founded 1993. Designer Christy O' Connor, Jnr.
Connemara, Links course, 7100 yards, Par 72. Founded 1973. Designer Eddie Hackett.
Oughterard, Parkland course, 6842 yards, Par 69. Founded 1973 Designers Hawtree / Hackett.

Ross Lake House Hotel , Oughterard, Galway
Jennings Hotel and Rose Garden, Castlebar, Mayo - 76 miles
Halpins Hotel & Vittles Restaurant, Kilkee, Clare - 85 miles