It's summer 2020 and this is Operation Staycation.
It's fair to say there haven't been too many positives to come out of 2020 so far... But if there is one, it has to be the rediscovery of our island.
With our international travel plans in the mud thanks to Covid, staycations have stepped up big time to save our summers.
But honestly, who needs Spain when costa del Ireland is open for business?
We have some of the best beaches in Europe, stunning cliffs, vibrant cities, and postcard views that’d make any country blush…
And one county that perfectly captures why staying put on Irish shores is all you need this year, is Galway.
With a city that perfectly mixes historic medieval roots with a vibrant modern cultural scene. And a rugged landscape that’ll take your breath away, Galway is perfect for families, couples and singles in need of a much-needed escape from Covid.
And if it were up to us, this is how we’d spend our perfect four-day getaway in Gaillimh.
Day 1: Take in The Latin Quarter
Where better to start than the heart of it all? The Latin Quarter.
Galway City’s best features all lay here, from the Spanish Arch at Long Walk to O’Brien’s Bridge to St Nicholas’ Church and back (via Buttermilk Lane) and Taibhdhearc on Middle Street.
Brimming with vibrant pubs and restaurants, the cobbled streets of The Latin Quarter are the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, a pint, and just let all your problems melt away.
You can even peruse the quirky boutiques in the hopes of finding a gift some someone special (or yourself).
And this year, no matter which county you’re from you’ll find a piece of home - with flags and bunting representing all 32 counties on display all through the city.
If you’re a bit of a local market connoisseur, you’ll want to time your stay to include the weekend market alongside St. Nicholas’ medieval church. The market has everything from amazing cheeses and charcuterie, as well as authentic vegetarian curries, sushi and Mediterranean favourites, mouth-watering stuff.
Not forgetting that just a stone’s throw from the Latin Quarter is the famous Eyre Square, a brilliant place to sprawl out for an afternoon if the sun is shining.
Then, as the sun begins to set on your first Galway day, the Salthill promenade is where you’ll want to be.
If a painting could choose what went on its canvas, there’s a good chance it’d be a sunset over the Salthill prom.
Day 2: Take the ferry to the Aran Islands
It’s day two, and we’re heading for a trip over to one of the jewels in Galway’s crown, the Aran islands.
Whether you choose to visit Inis Oírr, Inis Meain, or the largest island, Inis Mór, you won’t be disappointed.
The Gaeltacht islands are a great place to go walking, swimming and biking. There are also brilliant ancient landmarks to check out, like Poll na bPeist and Dún Aonghas.
Ferries operate to the Islands from Doolin in Co. Clare and Rossaveal in Co. Galway, while flights leave from Inverin in Connemara.
You’ll certainly have worked up an appetite on your journey, so why not head back to Quay Street or Middle Street upon your return to the mainland for a well earnt feast.
Day 3: Hit the road and drive around Connemara
Rugged and breath-taking Connemara is just something else altogether. Firstly, the coastal drive there is worth the trip alone. Known as the Connemara Loop, this is the best way to see the area’s incredible scenery and desolate countryside.
If you’re keen to get out of the car, the Connemara National Park has some epic hiking spots. We suggest the Diamond Hill walk which starts at the visitor centre. You can choose between the upper Diamond Hill trail (7km) and the lower Diamond Hill walk (3km) and both have brilliant views.
One of the highlights of Connemarra is Kylemore Abbey and Victorian walled-garden.
While you’re there you can wander the six-acre walled garden, take in the woodland, visit the neo-Gothic church and visit the abbey’s two pet pigs, Gloria and Ken!
Then enjoy a cuppa and a scone in the Garden Tea House on your way out.
Day 4: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren
OK, we know this isn’t technically in County Galway, but just a 90-minute spin from the city stand the iconic Cliffs of Moher.
Up there with the most recognisable cliffs in the world, the scenic cliffs reach 214m at their highest point and stretch for 8kms.
If you love a good hike, then the 20km coastal stretch which starts in Doolin and ends in Liscannor is something you should definitely do. And don’t worry, there’s a shorter 5km version from the cliffs to Hag’s Head.
The cliffs are part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, also known as The Burren. And the whole place is simply mind-blowing. Taking one of the Burren National Park's free guided walks is a fantastic way to learn more about the flora, fauna and geology of the place.
And there you have it, that's how we’d spend our perfect four-day getaway in Galway...so when are you taking yours?
Get to Galway and live it up in The Latin Quarter! Stay, shop, socialise and soak up the ambiance of Galway’s cultural heart.
It has top class accommodation, over 50 restaurant and 20 bars, along with a vast selection of boutiques and retailers, not to mention large pedestrianised areas with street entertainment. The Latin Quarter, Galway is where your summer should be spent. Visit The Latin Quarter website for more details.
