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County Galway
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| Attractions: Aran Islands Athenry Connemara Galway Town Inishbofin Kylemore Abbey |
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| Co. Galway Gaillimh Prov. Connacht Republic of Ireland |
| Major cities: Galway, Loughrea, Ballinasloe, Tuam, Clifden, Roundstone |
| Surface: 6,148 km2 Population: 208,826 |
The large County Galway is divided in two distinctive regions by Lough Corrib. The part east of the lake is dominated by Galway Town, being the capitol of West Ireland. With its University, Institute of Technology and modern industries Galway Town is a highly vivid and modern town. The town is an excellent base to explore the east part of the county, including the Aran Islands, and The Burren in the northern part of county Clare.
We are absolutely hooked on Galway Town. We had no idea why this city attracted us, until we learned that Saint Nicholas of Myra is the patron saint of the city. The birthday of this saint is celebrated in the Netherlands by spoiling kids with surprises and candy. We definitely must have felt this connection when set foot in Galway for the first time, at least that is the reason we put forward. The real reason is probably located on a much lower level of human behaviour and has something to do with the reputation of the Galway women. Apart from commercial profits the Spanish merchant ships also brought new genes to Galway and it is said that traces of the Mediterranean looks and temperament are still noticeable in the women of Galway.
The rest seeking visitor will go east of Lough Corrib and enjoy the hills of Connemara National Park. This part of county Galway is Gealtacht, meaning that many inhabitants are Irish speakers. Preservation of the language goes hand in hand with retaining the Irish culture. Clifden is for example well known for its traditional music and Roundstone is considered the bodhráns capital of the world.
A whole different attraction in Connemara is the embellished nineteenth century neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey.
Many tourist guides designated the Aran Islands, famous for its knitwear, as day trip. We think you can only do justice to the beauty of these islands when you have seen both sunset and sunrise.
If you are not into Roundstone bodhráns and Aran sweaters you might consider to buy a Claddagh ring.
The equestrian enthusiast must keep the Galway Races, held in the last week of July on the Galway Racecourse near Ballybrit, in mind. The song The Galway Races will get you in the perfect mood for a day at the pony's.