What to do and see in Oughterard, Western Ireland: The Best Things to do

Buried beneath the Connemara Mountain lies a way of life long abandoned and almost forgotten just waiting for you to explore! Let the team at Glengowla Mines lead you on a journey of discovery of how lead and silver were mined from the roots of the Connemara Mountains in the 1800’s. The constant dripping of water, the ‘miners breath’ and if you are brave enough - a moment of darkness will set the scene! Delve into the depths of Glengowla mines where you can explore the caverns of marble studded with lead and silver. Follow the veins of copper pyrite which will lead you to the ‘miners gold’ - Galena. Marvel at the rare and beautiful crystals of quartz and fluorite. Learn of the working conditions the miners worked under before the mines closed in 1865. A firm favourite with adults and children alike is to pan for gold and gems at our gold panning station and keep any gems you find! Not only will you enjoy guided tours of the mines,

Based in Oughterard, Co. Galway – only 25 minutes north of Galway City at the “Gateway to Connemara”. Our Centre is located on the Rusheeny road, just outside the town of Oughterard, and is nestled between beautiful hills, mountains and the shores of Lough Corrib. We offer a full range of services including trekking, lessons, showjumping leagues, pony camps, breaking and training, livery and stud. For those interested in the native Connemara Pony, our yard has a large selection of Connemara ponies with champion showing, ridden and showjumping stallions at stud and the opportunity to hear about the history and development of this versatile pony from the yards owner, Roger Joyce. Roger is from a long line of Connemara breeders and stallion custodians. He is also an experienced horse and rider trainer and an international Connemara Pony Judge.

Cead Mile Failte – “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” to Keogh’s Irish Gifts and to our little corner of Ireland – Oughterard, Co. Galway! We are a family-run Irish Gift Shop on Main Street, Oughterard established in 1945 by John P. Keogh. John’s son Henry, and wife Mary, have carried on operating the shop for the past 30 years, along with their three children Oisin, Siofra and Bonnie. Read more about

Curraghduff Farm: Alpaca Experience and Glamping Farm. (Walks, Meet & Greets and Group Bookings). Book a place to take an alpaca for a relaxing walk around the farm, you can take plenty of pictures and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lough Corrib, Connemara and surrounding mountains. Light refreshments are also available. We now offer glamping accommodation.

Built by the O'Flahertys c. 1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. In 1546 the O'Flaherty's motto "Fortune favours the strong" and the powerful Mayo O'Malleys Motto "Powerful by land and by sea", were joined in the marriage of Donal an Chogaidh O'Flaherty and Grainuaile/Grace O'Malley. Standing on what is virtually a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. In addition, visitors will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour.

Oughterard Golf Club is renowned for its hospitality and is an ideal venue to include on a memorable golfing holiday in the West of Ireland. Oughterard Golf Club has the full range of facilities to ensure your visit is memorable, from a fully stocked Proshop to a award nominated Restaurant. Oughterard Golf Club is an 18 Hole parkland course, which is lined with mature native Irish trees, including Oak, Hazel and Birch. It is an excellent test of golf for any level of golfer. The garden course of Connacht.

A small family-run department store on the main street of Oughterard village, stocking a variety of menswear, ladies fashion, giftware and jewellery.