From the bustling charm of Galway City to the rugged, otherworldly Burren, Western Ireland offers a wonderful wealth of experiences. Exuberant Galway, City of Tribes, packs summers with festivals and packs pubs with locals and visitors. Westport is another charismatic town, full of colorful shopfronts, pubs and great restaurants. The near lunar landscape of the Burren delights with its unexpected flora. Dont miss its Stone Age burial monuments, fishing village Ballyvaughan or cheerful Lisdoonvarna.
Things to do in Western Ireland
4.5 based on 312 reviews
The Nest Boutique Hostel is an alternative accommodation concept which blurs the lines between a hotel, guesthouse and a hostel by offering quality accommodation with unique social spaces, attention to detail, an individual touch and a strong emphasis on the local community and the environment. We are situated in the beautiful seaside village of Salthill, just 2 minutes walk to the beach and within 5 minutes of a handful of pubs and restaurants. We are also only a 15-20 minute walk into the bustling city centre of Galway, or a 10 minute bus ride. The Nest offers a majority of double and twin ensuite rooms which have comfy beds, mini fridges, soft linen, power showers and contemporary Irish art work. Family bedrooms are available which contain a double and twin room connected by a private bathroom or two double rooms connected by a bathroom. For groups or individuals, there are six and seven bed dorms which are ensuite and one dorm with shared bathroom. We offer a delicious continental breakfast every morning, consisting of fresh bread, a pastry, , cheese, fruit, yogurts, granola and tea/french press coffee for a small extra charge. Guests arriving by vehicle have access to free parking (5 spaces on site, and free street parking surrounding the hostel).
Hostels are a mixed bag and you're never really sure what to expect from one until you arrive. I was pleasantly surprised with The Nest, as it's decorated in a modern way which doesn't feel like a normal hostel. There are loads of comfortable chairs to lounge in and you don't feel like you're rushed. The dorm was clean as was the bathroom which had an extra of individual foot towels, which makes all the difference in a dorm. The bathroom looked like a normal one in a house though the shower did drive me crazy as it would work for 15 seconds and then you have to push the button again for it to work. The bed has it own light and power socket and the bed was comfortable. Breakfast was a bargain at 6 Euro which included granola, bread, pastry, orange juice, fruit and a beverage. It really set me up for the day and I felt stuffed so I skipped lunch. The staff were helpful in giving me information and preparing breakfast as I saw that the person on late shift would also be doing breakfast so I did feel for them! The hostel is just next to the bus stop and a couple of minutes from the restaurants and Salthill beach so it's pretty central. It's a nice walk into town along the coastline or even along the bus route. I would definitely recommend this hostel and will return when I'm next in the area.
4.5 based on 765 reviews
Located on the corner of Eyre Square in the heart of Galway City, the multi award-winning Kinlay Hostel has now also been listed as 'Top Choice' by the Lonely Planet Guide 2020. With a variety of room sizes, we can cater for large groups as well as solo backpackers and all rates include complimentary continental breakfast as well as free high-speed WiFi, free computer usage, free luggage storage, free printing and free city maps. Guest facilities include a comfortable chill-out lounge with pool table & TV, a fully-equipped kitchen open all day for your use and a spacious dining room. At Kinlay Hostel, your happiness is our main priority and our dedicated reception team are on hand 24 hours a day with helpful hints and expert insider knowledge to ensure that you make the most of your time in Galway. Not only are the city’s best bars, shops and restaurants right on our doorstep but with daily tours to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and the Aran Islands leaving from outside our front door every morning, Kinlay Hostel is the ideal base from which to discover the magical charm of Galway City and the west coast of Ireland.
I have been coming to stay at kinlay house for many years from Scotland and have always enjoyed my experience apart from some noisy people on occasions and they always give guests a reasonable continental breakfast each one like porridge toast yugurt and Irish soda bread this kind of breakfast was welcome bye all guests not just me especially the porridge on really cold weather mornings and in Ireland you get lots cold mornings the reviews could always speak for themselves regarding the porridge but unfortunately this year when I returned to kinlay house the great wonderful breakfast especially the porridge had disappeared and the yogurts and lovely fruits I approached the staff members about this and was told they were not doing the porridge anymore and all the other nice items only thing that was available for backpacking people a small portion of cereal and Irish so bread that had very little taste too it this felt like a kick in the teeth too ous backpacking people like we didn't deserve a reasonable decent continental breakfast like porridge or nice Irish soda bread or nice yugurt to start our day up with a smile because they manager and the staff couldn't not be bothered to make any real effort to make a small pot of porridge because we don't not deserve it I am very disappointed in kinlay house in galway that they could disrespect ous backpacking people like this it's not only kinlay has done this galway city hostel has been doing this too backpacking people for years it needs to change
4 based on 122 reviews
Tourist Hostel and Bar on beautiful Achill Island, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Historic Victorian house in scenic area close to beaches. Visit the charming Woodland Faerie Trail and Gift Shop on our grounds. Minutes from Blue Flag beach. Music sessions, darts and pool in our pub. Warm, friendly atmosphere. Activities arranged, groups & individuals welcome.
We stayed for 5 days in the valley hostel and we had a ball! The bar was great craic, lovely food and the staff are so helpful and friendly! The beds are very comfortable and there’s charging ports for each bed so no fighting over sockets! Bathrooms are pretty modern and a good shower too! ( also provided with towels) I’d highly recommend and I will be returning!
5 based on 62 reviews
Kilcommon Lodge is a Holiday Hostel in Pullathomas beside the sea. The hostel is sorrounded by mature gardens,old trees and overlooks sruwaddacon bay. Belmullet town is only 20 minutes drive away. We have private rooms and dormitories available and for those who self cater there is a fully equipped self-catering kitchen. We also provide breakfast and evening meals on request. Hostel features include a car park, laundry facilities, power showers, open peat fire and WIFI connection. We offer block booking for clubs, workshops and groups at special discount rates.Local attractions include the Ceide Fields, Downpatrick head, Benwee head cliffs and loop walk, InisKea islands and numerous sandy beaches ideal for watersports.Kilcommon Lodge is an ideal place to explore this pristine unspoilt part of Ireland or to just relax by the fire.
The hostel is located in a beautiful remote area in West County Mayo- surrounded by animals and hills. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy peace. Betty the owner, is such a genuinely friendly soul, who wants the best for all her guests. I've just volunteered for her for a few days, and it was just amazing, I already want to come back. She gave me duck eggs from her ducks, gorgeous vine tomatoes from her veg patch, and constantly checked I was comfortable and well fed! All the locals know Betty and the family, and all speak very highly. The locals and everyone else are so friendly and welcoming to me, which is a bonus being a solo traveller, (who has no idea where she is!) There is only 1 bus going to Kilcommon from Castlebar, which is where you have to change if you're coming from Knock. It leaves at 5pm. Hiring a car or bringing your own transport is more ideal if you wish to explore further parts of Mayo. But if you're happy on foot, there are some stunning walks up the hills and down to the beach. I would highly recommend this hostel for everyone, it is spotless, comfortable, beautiful and warm. Come to escape, relax, explore, meditate, drink, eat and enjoy! Thank you Betty n Co. ?
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Bru Radharc na Mara Hostel is located on Inishere, the smallest and most beautiful of the Aran Islands. It is located on the waters edge overlooking Galway Bay, away from the bustle of city life..in a world of stunning scenery with panoramic views of neighbouring islands, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren. It offers en-suite private (double/twin)rooms, family rooms and 4/6 bed dormitories. Facilities include a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, dining area, common room with open fire, Irish/Continental breakfast available, Credit cards accepted.
Excellent location, close proximity to the pier. Welcoming atmosphere generated by Linda. Beds very comfortable, power shower. Kettle etc in room. I would stay there again and recommend it to anyone who asked.
4 based on 9 reviews
The Wild Atlantic Hostel @ Delphi Resort is a newly built (2018) state-of-the art luxurious 220-bed hostel located within the 300 acre grounds of the award-winning 4-star Delphi Resort. It is the perfect getaway for anyone seeking value for money in Connemara and along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. This new hostel replaces the old hostel offering and is in a separate building to the Resort’s hotel. Shared, private, disabled and family rooms are available, all en-suite, with state-of-the-art beds featuring individual locker facilities, privacy panels, reading lights, charging points for electronic devices, together with Orla Kiely furnishings. The extensive range of facilities in this contemporary building include two large communal lounges / games rooms with flat screen TVs, conference facilities and, in one of those rooms, cooking facilities. Guests have the option to avail of the hotel's spa, adventure, dining and business facilities. Ideal for groups, families, couples & more
we booked last minute and weren't disappointed. We were greeted with a friendly professional lady and got checked in quickly. We had to change our room due to an unforeseen issue and this very satisfactorily done in a timely manner. The new room was perfect. As a measure of goodwill, we received a discount on our bill. Well done ! We ate a hearty breakfast both days & 1 dinner and I'm pleased to say the quality of the food was fabulous, with generous portions. We were very impressed with Jamie for our archery session, he was funny and patient and we learned a lot from him. The library area of the hotel is lovely to sit down and have a quiet chat/read with a few drinks/snacks. The wifi is not the quickest but that doesn't matter when you have all the outdoor activities to experience. Hope to return soon !
3 based on 149 reviews
The Old Mill Holiday Hostel is a budget hostel situated in a quiet courtyard in the centre of Westport, Ireland's tidiest town. Westport provides an excellent place for those interested in climbing Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain associated with St.Patrick who by legend banished the snakes from Ireland at this place. If you enjoy good music and are interested in the Westport Arts festival you will have a good stay.
Pros: spacious and well equipped kitchen, cool old building, great town centre location close to cafés, shops, bike hire, etc, good wifi Cons: All rooms are mixed gender, walls very thin so you’ll hear anything in the room next to you, showers on a 10 second timer until you have to press the water again, we booked 2 beds in a 4-person dorm (for two girls) and were instead put in a 6-person. Notes: Ask for the wifi network and password at the front desk as it isn’t the “OLDMILL” network that they advertise. We actually weren’t asked for the €30 cash deposit. Would definitely advise bringing earplugs for a less disturbed sleep. All in all, fine for a night or two, friendly staff and nice kitchen. Our main complaint (noise) can be mitigated worth earplugs, and just be aware that it there are no female only dorms.
3.5 based on 3 reviews
Snoozles Hostel is a multi award-winning purpose-built hostel in the heart of Galway City. Our accommodation range includes dorms for 10, 6 or 4 guests along with double, single and twin rooms, female only dorms and family rooms - and every room is en-suite. Snoozles staff are friendly and informative and will give you all the tips on how to make the most of your time in the west. Ideally located in a semi residential area, beside Galway's City coach station yet only seconds walk from Eyre Square.
Hard to describe how incredibly awful my experience in this hostel was. I travel to Galway quite often, and I had been here before. As I had done twice already, I booked a bed in female dorm, for two nights. I arrived on a Thursday evening, around 11 pm, as the reception works 24/7. It took the staff (two men, one Spanish and one French I believe) quite some time to figure out my booking. Apparently I was put in mixed gender dorm by mistake, and the Spanish man clarified that it must have been because of my name, that the owner thought I was a boy who had booked a bed in a female dorm because there was no availability in the mixed gender room (actually when I booked, both dorms were available on the website). I replied that I had been there before, always in female dorms, he said their system had been recently updated so they couldn’t see my previous bookings. For the same reason, he asked me to pay for my full stay at the hostel, so I had to show him both the confirmation email and a bank statement to prove that I had paid in full already when booking. In the meantime, he said that they had an available female dorm that seemed to be “blocked” on their system, but he knew that was empty, so he sent the French guy to check. Finally, I was given the key to the room 107, and I thought it was ok, mistakes with bookings happen. The room was cold, so I went back to the reception and I asked to turn the heating on. The reply I received shocked me, they said that the heating was not working in that room (nor in the bathroom), and “there was nothing they could do to help” except giving me an extra duvet. I had to insistently ask to be given a miserable portable heater. The Spanish guy said that the only alternative was to give me a refund, so I asked him what was I supposed to do with a refund, in the middle of the night. It was past midnight at that point, I was exhausted so I felt asleep in that room wrapped in two duvets, after sending a text to the customer service. The morning after I couldn’t even shower because of the cold. I called the customer service the day after to request a full refund, and after a few hours they came back to me saying that the property refused to refund the first night, because they had offered me the heater (which is not true, I even had to insist for it) and I slept there. That’s right, I spent a miserable, freezing night in their property because I didn’t have any other option in the middle of the night, in February, with a temperature of 2° C degrees outside. I wouldn’t step in here again even if it was the only hostel in Galway. Avoid at all costs.
4.5 based on 218 reviews
Galway City Hostel is ideally located beside the bus and train station overlooking Eyre Square, giving you the perfect starting point to explore all the attractions and nightlife that Galway has to offer. If you wish to explore further afield, you can book a tour to The Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and The Aran Islands at unbeatable prices directly from our 24 hour reception area. We offer our guests free Wi-Fi and internet access, free printing, free breakfast, free maps and event guides and free luggage storage. Our facilities include a fully equipped self catering kitchen, a comfortable chill out area and lockers. From the reception area, not only can you book tours, you are also provided with a laundry service, hairdryers, adaptors and anything else that will make your stay with us more relaxing and enjoyable.
This place is literally directly in front of the train station making it very handy!! No figuring out where on earth you're going with your bags, you just have to walk across the street. Main street is less than 5 minutes walk away. Galway is a great city, there's always loads going on and I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for somewhere to stay. It was clean, relatively quiet especially for being right in the city centre and super easy to wander into town. We really enjoyed our stay!
5 based on 139 reviews
Fabulous new Failte Ireland approved hostel at the foot of Croagh Patrick Mountain in the picturesque village of Murrisk, 7 km from Westport. On the Wild Atlantic Way route and accessible to the Great Western Greenway. There are stunning family rooms and dorms, all en suite, together with beautiful facilities of a self catering kitchen, a dining and a lounge, with a stove fire. Drying room avail.
This is the type of place that you really want to go to. It’s modern, tidy, has all the facilities, and has a welcome 2nd to none. The staff are helpful, knowledgeable and really welcoming. The facilities allow cooking and food storage and it’s pretty much everything you’d ever want.
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