Historic Sites in Aran Islands

"Built around 1500, this superbly preserved fortress signposted 4.2km east of Oughterard was home to the 'Fighting O'Flahertys', who controlled the region for hundreds of years after they fought off the Normans. The six-storey tower house stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lough Corrib and has been extensively restored."

"A great Tower House to visit with kids in Galway is Aughnanure Castle. Located near Oughterard, it is one of over 200 tower houses in County Galway. Built in the 16th century this castle is a great place to stretch the legs and let the kids run off some excess energy."

"The 'Fighting O'Flahertys' were based at this superbly preserved 16th-century fortress 4km east of Oughterard. The clan controlled the region for hundreds of years after they fought off the Normans."

"Standing guard over Inishmore, Dun Aengus, 8km west of Kilronan, has three massive drystone walls that run right up to sheer drops to the ocean below. Believed to be up to 2000 years old, the fort is protected by remarkable chevaux de frise, fearsome and densely packed defensive limestone spikes. Displays at its small visitor centre provide context and a 900m walkway wanders uphill to the fort itself."

"Dún Aonghasa on Inis MorInis Mor The easiest way to get to Inis Mor is by taking a ferry from Ros a' Mhíl/Rossaveal, which is located about 50 minutes from Galway. You can either drive yourself to Rossaveal, or take advantage of the shuttle bus that leaves from central Galway about 1.5 hours before sailing in the morning."

"Almost hanging over a 100-metre cliff edge on Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands, Dún Aonghasa is thought to be at least 2000 years old. It consists of four concentric circles, their walls sometimes as much as 4 metres thick. Yet for all its obvious defensive might, the fort is thought to have been largely ceremonial."

"A ‘show mine’ that plays tribute to the days of mining in Connemara, West Galway, a trip to Glengowla brings you below ground to explore the dangerous extraction methods of 19th-century silver and lead mining. As well as the roughshod mining buildings and cave below, Glengowla is now home to an open farm, which is popular with local families. Glengowla Lodge, Glengowla East, Oughterard, Co."

"One of Ireland's most famous prehistoric grave sites, Gleninsheen lies beside the R480 7km south of Ballyvaughan. It's thought to date from 4000 to 5000 years ago. A magnificent gold gorget (a crescent of beaten gold that hung round the neck) found here and dating from the late Bronze Age is now on display at the National Museum in Dublin. Note: the access gate to the tomb is sometimes locked, and signage is poor."

"While only two of the ancient buildings at this site are actually churches this was one of the earliest Irish pilgrimage sites ever."

"The O’Dowd family have been welcoming visitors to this much-loved pub overlooking the harbour for longer than most people care to remember. There are some new developments from time to time, but the old bar is always the same – or at least ..."

"Donnelly's Bar & Restaurant is an old local favourite that has been renovated to a beautifully modern finish. Located on the picturesque Barna Pier, it's the perfect location to appreciate the sea and its plentiful bounty!. Their menu packs a secret weapon that you won't find anywhere else; Neptune's Seafood Treasure is a crepe filled with fresh salmon, cod and prawns in a white wine sauce, gratinated and topped with Hollandaise and breadcrumbs, and it's delicious!"

"One of Ireland’s most renowned seafood restaurants, Donnelly's also caters to carnivores with its game and meat dishes. Wash it all down with a few drinks at the on-site bar."

"For the Barna folk among us, Barcella Café are helping you keep the wolf from the door with their American style pancakes this Tuesday. They’ve got three options with a choice of three toppings to choose from. Bacon, maple syrup, Nutella, mixed berry jam, honey, fresh cream, banana - we’re drooling just thinking about it!"

"Having started learning about vegetarianism and veganism nearly four years ago, the folks at Sweet Nothings café have always tried to put an emphasis on living clean and as sustainably as possible. Their menu is 100% vegetarian and nearly everything has a plant-based alternative. They’ve even got vegan, wheat and refined sugar free desserts that they’ve been selling at markets for the last three years and it’s clear that Connemara has taught them that simplicity and living in harmony with nature is the key to everything."

"Builín Blasta is a friendly kind of place, offering a truly Irish Céad Míle Fáilte to everyone who wanders through their doors. They offer award-winning vegan options such as their lentil spaghetti bolognese with cashew “parmesan” and their super tasty vegan sandwich with chermoula, roasted mushroom, tomato and caramelised onion on homemade sourdough rye bread. If you’re looking for a sweet fix, treat yourself to one of their delicious vegan desserts and a warm cuppa."

"If you like your outdoor dining to have those scenic seaside vibes, take a trip out to Spiddal and treat yourself to something tasty from Builín Blasta. They have an amazing range of baked treats, whether you prefer sweet (like a mango cheesecake!) or savoury (like a black pudding and blue cheese jambon!!). Loads of outdoor seating, doggy-friendly, wheelchair accessible and with a cute craft village next door to browse around."

"One of Ireland's most famous prehistoric grave sites, Gleninsheen lies beside the R480 7km south of Ballyvaughan. It's thought to date from 4000 to 5000 years ago. A magnificent gold gorget (a crescent of beaten gold that hung round the neck) found here and dating from the late Bronze Age is now on display at the National Museum in Dublin. Note: the access gate to the tomb is sometimes locked, and signage is poor."

"While only two of the ancient buildings at this site are actually churches this was one of the earliest Irish pilgrimage sites ever."