• Aughnanure Castle in Galway
    Provided by: Dan Merino/cc by-nd 2.0/Flickr

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Latin Quarter

Latin Quarter

For a taste of Galway's unique character and charm, be sure to visit the Latin Quarter. A vibrant and historic neighbourhood located in the heart of the city, known for its colourful buildings, bustling pedestrian streets, and lively atmosphere. The Latin Quarter is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, shop for artisanal crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy traditional Irish music and dance performances in the many pubs and venues.
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Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park

Covering about 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, sprawling bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands, the Connemara National Park offers a glimpse of this rich terrain, which has long been a place of discovery and exploration. The Park encompasses a section of the Twelve Bens mountain range, including the county's tallest peak, Benbaun, which stands at 725 metres. Four hiking trails are available to visitors. One of its highlights is reaching the summit of Diamond Hill, which rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of Tully Mountain, Kylemore Abbey, and the Twelve Bens.
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Dún Aonghasa

Dún Aonghasa

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Dún Aonghasa is the most monumental of the prehistoric stone forts on the Aran Islands. This semi-circular structure, which is over 3,000 years old and enclosed by three massive stone walls, has yielded significant evidence of prehistoric metalworking and various ancient burial sites and settlements through excavations. Visiting Dún Aonghasa requires a short hike over uneven terrain and natural rock formations, so it's recommended to wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. Also, be extremely careful when approaching the cliff's edge since there is no fence or barrier at the edge of the 87-metre drop.
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Irish Workhouse Centre

Irish Workhouse Centre

This humbling museum offers insight into an often overlooked institution in Irish history — the Workhouse. From the 1840s until Independence (1920s), Workhouses were the last resort for the destitute poor. Offering minimal living conditions in exchange for gruelling work, these institutions characterise the hardship of life in the era. The centre is composed of 7 workhouses and takes visitors on an interactive journey through this harrowing chapter of history.
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Menlo Castle

Menlo Castle

Nestled in a picturesque location on the banks of the River Corrib lies the secluded Menlo Castle. Built in the 16th century, this historic castle has since been reclaimed by nature, making it a challenge to spot behind the lush green vegetation that now covers it. From 1600 to 1910, the castle was home to the Blake family, once described as the richest family in Galway. Sadly, a devastating fire broke out in 1910, claiming the lives of Lord and Lady Blake's daughter, Eleanor as well as two maids. The castle was completely destroyed, leaving only the ivy-covered walls that still stand today as a haunting reminder of the tragedy that occurred. During the summer months, the riverside walk that follows the former Galway to Clifden railway line is a popular destination for walkers and joggers. If you happen to be in the Galway area, this scenic path is definitely worth a visit.
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Croagh Patrick — Ireland's 'Holy Mountain' or 'The Reek'

Croagh Patrick — Ireland's 'Holy Mountain' or 'The Reek'

Croagh Patrick is a 764-metre-high cone-shaped peak that rises above Clew Bay in County Mayo. Known as Ireland’s ‘Holy Mountain’ or ‘The Reek’ among locals, it’s a site steeped in history, religion, and mythology. The mountain is believed to have been a pilgrimage site for pagans as far back as 3000 BC. It’s thought that pagans gathered here to celebrate the start of the harvest season. Later, it became associated with the worship of the Celtic sun god, Lugh. And then in the 5th century, Saint Patrick is said to have fasted on the mountain for 40 days and nights before banishing the snakes from Ireland. Today, Croagh Patrick remains a popular pilgrimage site, with around 20,000 to 25,000 pilgrims climbing the mountain each year on the last Sunday in July, closest to the pagan festival of Lughnasa. The trek to the summit is a rewarding experience, with panoramic views of the hundreds of tiny, green drumlin islands in Clew Bay, the Wild Atlantic Way, the town of Westport, and surrounding mountain ranges.
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