Sporty Adventures on Land in Barna, Galway & Connemara
For active travellers who prefer dry land (mostly!)
1. Horse Riding on Rusheen Bay (Barna)
Coastal Trekking | Beginner Friendly | Local Charm
Saddle up and ride along scenic coastal trails with views of Galway Bay and beyond. Whether you're a novice or experienced rider, Rusheen Bay stables offer guided treks with stunning sea views and the soft hush of nature all around.
2. Hiking Diamond Hill (Connemara National Park, Letterfrack)
Moderate Hike | Epic Views | Well-Marked Trails
The Diamond Hill loop is one of Ireland’s best-loved hikes. It offers a clearly maintained trail and a spectacular panoramic view over the Twelve Bens, the Atlantic, and Kylemore Abbey. Takes about 2–3 hours and is accessible to most fitness levels.
3. Cycling the Sky Road (Clifden)
Scenic Loop | Challenging Uphill’s | Breath-taking Views
This famous looped cycling route is a must for road cyclists. Starting and ending in Clifden, it climbs steadily before opening up to incredible sea cliffs, offshore islands, and distant mountains. Bring your camera – and your gears!
4. Barna Golf Club
18-Hole Course | Coastal Views | Relaxed Atmosphere
A beautifully maintained course overlooking Galway Bay, just minutes from the village. The course is challenging yet playable, and visitors are warmly welcomed. Great for an afternoon round before settling into the pub.
5. Walking the Promenade (Salthill to Galway City)
Leisurely Walk | Local Favourite | Ocean Breezes
Start at Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill and walk all the way to the Spanish Arch in Galway City. About 3km one way, it's perfect for an early morning jog, brisk walk, or casual sunset stroll.
6. The Western Way Trail (Oughterard to Leenane)
Multi-Day Hike | Off-the-Beaten-Path | Wild Beauty
For seasoned walkers, this long-distance walking route traverses quiet valleys, forests, bog lands, and mountain passes through the heart of Connemara. Even doing a day section makes for a memorable, remote adventure.
7. Bike the Aran Islands (Inis Mór)
Island Exploration | Cultural | Coastal
Hop on a bike after the ferry and explore Inis Mór’s wild coastline, beaches, and ancient sites at your own pace. Visit Dún Aonghasa, the Worm Hole, and traditional thatched villages. Bikes can be hired near the ferry terminal.
8. Rock Climbing or Bouldering in Connemara
Natural Rock Faces | Adventure Sports | Guided Options Available
For the truly adventurous, Connemara’s rugged terrain offers natural rock faces for climbing and bouldering. Try areas near Recess, Maam Cross, or Leenane. Local guides and climbing schools are available for beginners and pros alike.
9. Orienteering & Trail Running in Derroura Forest (near Oughterard)
Forested Trails | Lake Views | MTB & Running Friendly
This hidden gem is perfect for trail runners, hikers, and orienteers. With looped trails, varied terrain, and scenic views over Lough Corrib, it’s a great place to get the heart rate up away from crowds.
10. Glengowla Mines & Family Farm (Oughterard)
Family Fun | Light Hiking | Historical Tour
Explore old mine tunnels and finish with a gentle farm walk, meeting animals and seeing traditional sheepdog demonstrations. Ideal for a low-impact but engaging activity – especially if you’re travelling with kids or want a less intense day.
11. Killary Sheep Farm (Leenane)
Working Farm Experience | Light Walks | Cultural Activity
A visit to this hillside sheep farm overlooking Killary Fjord offers plenty of walking, sheepdog demos, and even turf-cutting. It's an active cultural experience, great for connecting to the land in a hands-on way.
12. Connemarathon (Annual Event – Clifden/Leenane region)
Race Event | Scenic Route | Marathon, Half & 10K
If you're visiting in spring, consider signing up (or spectating) the Connemarathon, one of the most scenic runs in Europe. Runners wind through dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, and wide-open skies. It’s tough — and unforgettable.
When you've all that done book into the Twelve, and book Le Petit Spa for a massage or in-room seaweed bath before you wine and dine in one of our two award winning restaurants. Blackthorn and The Pins both offer wonderful dining experiences. Check out our special offers and make the most of the summer in Galway!