What better way to experience Galway than with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the beautiful landscapes of the west on the other? From relaxed seaside strolls to memorable drives through Connemara, Galway gives you plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and discover the coast at your own pace.
When you stay at Imperial Hotel Galway, you have a comfortable Galway Hotel in a convenient city centre location to return to after a day of exploring. Step outside our Hotel in Eyre Square and enjoy the energy of Galway City, or get in the car and follow the coast towards beaches, villages and some of the most impressive scenery in the west of Ireland.
Here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy a coastal adventure during your stay.
Start With a Walk Along Salthill Promenade
You do not have to travel far from Galway City to enjoy the fresh Atlantic air. Salthill is around 3 kilometres from the city and is famous for its long promenade overlooking Galway Bay.
Take a leisurely walk along the seafront, watch the waves roll into the bay and enjoy views across the water. Continue towards Blackrock, one of Salthill’s best known landmarks and a popular swimming spot.
Salthill is an easy addition to a day exploring Galway and a lovely choice when you want some time beside the sea without travelling too far.
Follow the Coast to Spiddal
For a longer coastal adventure, head west from Galway towards Bearna and Spiddal. This route takes you alongside Galway Bay and into the Galway Gaeltacht, where the Irish language remains an important part of everyday life.
Spiddal, or An Spidéal, is a picturesque seaside village around 19 kilometres from Galway City. Stop for a stroll beside the water and take in the village’s coastal setting before continuing your journey.
The route is ideal for guests who want to combine a scenic drive with opportunities to stop, walk and explore along the way.
Discover the Sky Road in Clifden
If dramatic coastal scenery is high on your Galway wish list, make time for the Sky Road near Clifden. This spectacular 16 kilometre loop follows the Connemara coastline and offers panoramic views across Clifden Bay, the surrounding islands and the Atlantic.
There is a viewing point along the route where you can stop and take in the landscape. With the sea stretching out ahead and the rugged Connemara countryside all around, it is a wonderful place to appreciate the natural beauty of County Galway.
Allow yourself plenty of time for the journey so you can enjoy Clifden and the surrounding countryside rather than rushing through it.
Explore Roundstone and the Connemara Coast
Another rewarding drive takes you through the Connemara landscape towards Roundstone. This picturesque fishing village sits on the Atlantic coast south of Clifden and makes a great stopping point during a day on the road.
The Roundstone and Ballyconneely loop combines coastal scenery with blanket bog, lakes, sandy inlets and traditional Connemara landscapes. Along the route, you can also discover the beautiful neighbouring beaches of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay.
Park up for a while, stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh sea air before continuing your journey through Connemara.
Make the Wild Atlantic Way Part of Your Galway Break
Many of these coastal adventures form part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way, which follows Ireland’s western coastline. You certainly do not need to travel the entire route to experience its appeal.
A day trip from Galway can introduce you to seaside villages, quiet roads, beaches and unforgettable Atlantic views. Pack comfortable walking shoes, keep your plans flexible and give yourself time to stop whenever a view catches your attention.
In the City, By the Square
After a day beside the Atlantic, return to the comfort and convenience of Imperial Hotel Galway. Our central location makes us a great choice among Hotels in Galway City Centre for guests who want to combine Galway’s lively streets with adventures further along the coast.
Spend your day discovering Salthill, Spiddal, Clifden or Roundstone, then return to Eyre Square ready to relax and enjoy the city.
From short seaside walks to unforgettable Connemara drives, there is always another view waiting around the corner.
Make Imperial Hotel Galway your base for exploring it all. Book your stay today and discover the best of Galway City and its spectacular Atlantic coastline.
