We want to make things easier for you when you come to Galway. We have put together a list of things that might make your stay that bit more enjoyable. Whether you want to explore the City or the County itself we are sure something on this list will stand out to you!
Rinville Park is located just five minutes from the picturesque village of Oranmore, just 15 minutes from Raheen Woods Hotel. It is a wonderful amenity, created around an ancient castle, a stately home and a fine estate demesne, which dates from the 16th century.
With an extensive network of walks through woodlands, open farmland and by the sea, Rinville Park offers a recreational facility of outstanding quality and beauty. There is access to Rinville Point and Saleen Point, where views of Galway Bay, Galway City and the Burren of County Clare can be enjoyed. Look out for ravens, grey herons and otters among the fascinating fauna which can be observed in Rinville Park. While the flora includes cultivated and wild flowers, shrubs and trees. The Park has picnic areas, a fairy garden and a children's playground, and is open year round. Admission is free.
You come here to play, and play you will! There really is something for everyone. From the aspiring Robin Hood and Katniss Everdeen seeking to hone their archery skills, to the ultimate daredevil weaving 49 feet above the ground on our Zip n Trek course. Tickle your brain in our Crystal Maze-style Challenge Rooms, where you’ll need more than just physical skills to solve the puzzles. Conquer your fears on our eye-catching indoor fun walls. Ride a jeep through the woods. Unlock your children’s imagination in An Baile Beag or in the playground. For something a little different, our disc golf course is waiting to be discovered, and tag archery is an adrenaline-fuelled activity to playfully test your skill and endurance as you hunt your friends through the trees!
The first area to greet you comprises of the bird aviary where there are a wide variety of birds and poultry, the pet’s corner is always a children’s favourite, where they get a chance to cuddle the many adorable rabbits, and a play area including sand pit. The surrounding walking trail allows visitors to closely see our adorable farm animals such as pigs, ponies, cows, donkeys, goats and sheep. (Remember, during the cooler winter months, some animals are housed indoors where you still get the opportunity to feed them). Our picnic areas are perfect places for families and groups to enjoy packed lunches, drinks and snacks that they may have brought along with them to the farm.
Our picnic area allows great views over the farm and nature trail. On a nice sunny day there is nothing nicer than sitting at the picnic area and enjoying eating outdoors in the fresh air with the lovely sound of farm animals all around. The all weather walkway, ‘Hawthorn walk’(both wheelchair and buggy friendly) takes you along the perimeter of the 14 acre farm where you get a chance to hand feed many animals including
‘Larry the Llama’, ‘Curly the Alpaca’ and not forgetting ‘Macy’ one of the very friendly goats. After saying ‘Hello’ to ‘Dundee’ the crocodile and making your wish in the wishing well the trail finishes with a visit to our second outdoor play area. The first outdoor play area containing swings, slides and various see-saws, located at the start of the ‘Hawthorn Walk’ is nicely nestled between the ever popular sand pit and the rabbits corner/aviary.
The second of the outdoor play areas is where you can swing & slide ‘till your heart’s content’ before showing off your skills on the astro turf pitch or football pitch & Lots more.
4. Dartfield Horse Museum & Hertiage Centre
A unique attraction of history, heritage and horses. Ireland's premier horse museum and park is truly a wonderful interpretation of the horse, emphasising the relationship between the Irish and their horses. Dartfield is the vision of legendry Irish horseman Willie Leahy, field master of the Galway Blazers and the largest breeder of Connemara ponies in the world.
It is the only museum in the world dedicated to Irish horses, Connemara ponies and Irish dogs. It features all aspects of Irish country life from 1800-1900 and vintage cars from 1901-1930. Dartfield is set amongst 350 acres of Parkland where visitors are welcome to explore the walking trails and see the farm animals, including deer, cattle, sheep, Irish horses and Connemara ponies.
Horse riding is available by the hour, half or full day, to suit all levels of ability. There are lots of interesting displays, a gallery, forge, saddlery, library and much more.
Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland's National Aquarium, is the "jewel in the crown of visitor attractions in the West of Ireland" and is home to 170 species of fresh water fish and marine life. Situated on the famous Salthill Promenade, it has evolved to become one of the finest visitor attractions in Ireland. Opening Times: Monday To Friday: 9am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am to 6pm Closed some Mondays and Tuesdays from November to February for essential tank maintenance.
Experience the Magic of Celtic Heritage at Brigit's Garden in the West of Ireland. Brigit's Garden takes you on a magical journey through the sacred spiral of the seasons into the heart of Celtic heritage and mythology, making it one of the truly outstanding attractions in Galway. Themed on the Celtic seasonal festivals, Brigit's Garden is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular gardens in Ireland set within 11 acres of native woodland & wildflower meadows. Its features include: a nature trail, ogham trees, children's discovery trail, living willow play area, an ancient ring fort (fairy fort), Roundhouse and calendar sundial, the largest in Ireland.
The Garden Café offers excellent cuisine with many vegetarian options made with organic ingredients fresh from the gardens whenever possible. Brigid's Garden offer a full calendar of family-friendly activities throughout the year, making it one of leading family attractions in the region. Gardens and Gift Shop open daily February to October 10am to 5.30 pm.
Killary Adventure Company is located three miles from Leenane village on the Clifden Road. They offer excitement and fun catering to everyone's budget and taste with activities such as bungee jumping, abseiling, archery and waterskiing to name but a few. There are activities suitable for the complete beginner to the more experienced, with facilities for individuals or groups of up to 150.
Take a spin to Pallas Karting where you can be in the driving seat, jostling for pole position in one of the fastest and most exciting sports in Ireland today. At Pallas Karting you can experience the thrill of real motor racing first hand at their new kart circuit. Whatever the weather, Pallas Karting has the green light for an action packed non-stop race programme for everyone.