Aran Island Trip

Looking for a fabulous day trip? Go to the Aran Islands, consisting of Inis Mor, Inis Meain and Inis Oir. Enjoy the outstanding landscape, visit the Dun Aonghasa Fort, bring along a picnic (lovely picnic area with view of the seals) and don’t forget your swim wear! The ferry leaves from Rossaveal Harbour (Only 30 km from The Twelve Hotel) It will take around 30 to 45 minutes to get there, depending on traffic. The ferry leaves several times a day, return ticket costs €25 per adult, car park available, €5 per day. The journey to Inis Mor (the biggest island) takes 60 minutes to Kilronan, the principle port and the “capital” of Inis Mor. Then on the pier you can choose if you want to explore the island by bike (€10 per day per bike), by pony and trap, by mini bus or by foot. (2011 prices at time of print) To really enjoy the islands the weather needs to be nice. But be careful; You can easily get sunburnt when the sun is out!

Boat Trip to Ashford Castle

The Corrib Ferry leaves from the heart of Oughterard. It will take about an hour to cross beautiful Lough Corrib with its sweeping view of the Connemara Mountains. At the end of the journey stands the magical and majestical Ashford Castle, dating back to the 13th century AD. The castle grounds as well as the surrounding village of Cong were the setting for the classic film by John Ford, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. You will have 2 ½ hours to stroll the beautiful gardens, visit the village of Cong and enjoy a light lunch before heading back towards Oughterard. A stop on the historical island of Inchagoill where you will be able to observe:

• St. Patricks Church (5th Century)
• The stone of Lugna (470AD: Gravestone of St. Patricks navigator)
• The Church of the Saints (Built in 1180AD by the Augustinian Monks of Cong)
• The burial tomb of Muirgeas O'Nioc (Archbishop of Tuam in 1128AD)

The ferry operates from June to October (but ask reception to check on sailings) and generally departs at 11.45am and is back around 6.00pm http://www.corribcruises.com/

Pubs in Galway

Traditional Irish music is an integral part of many pubs in Galway. The Irish music scene in Galway City is one of the best in Ireland with skilled musicians playing in a host of venues across the City. The pubs highlighted have built a strong reputation through many years of having quality traditional Irish music on a regular basis.

Walk along the Canal Walkway

Galway Beaches

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Eyre Square & Spanish Arch

Salthill Prom

Pure Skills, Knocknacarra

The new ultimate indoor sport venue with a circuit of 10 automated sports arenas such as Baseball Batting, Cricket Bowl, Basketball Penalties, 20 metre Gaelic Kick, 20 metre Rugby Kick, Golf Putting, Golf Pitching to target, Tennis return serve to a target, Hurling Shots to target, Soccer Penalties. It really sounds great and to be fun and I can already feel the stiffness.

Atlantaquaria in Salthill

Opening Hours Wednesday to Friday 10am to 5 pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm. Admission Adults €10.50, Toddlers up to age of 3 free, kids up to age of 16 € 6.25, Students and Seniors €7, family tickets 2+2 €29 1+2 €20 additional child €4

Galway City Farmers Market

Bridgets Garden

Set within 11 acres of native woodland and wildflower meadows, the gardens are themed on the Celtic Seasonal Festivals. The gardens feature nature trails, ancient ring fort, children’s discovery trails, calendar sundial (largest in Ireland), garden café. Great fun for families within a safe environment. You can bring along a picnic and relax in the grass while the children play. Lots of special events on dates like Easter, Summer Solstice and Halloween. Around 15 km (less than 30 minutes by car) on the N59 to Clifden. The turnoff is well indicated once you get to Roscahill.

River Cruise on the Corrib Princess