When in Galway you simply need to experience all of its majestic beauty and that requires paying a visit to all of the lovely places that called Galway home, and for this article we are looking at the stunning Moycullen.
Between the wilds of Connemara and the shores of Lough Corrib, lie a few lovely villages and towns that have been accurately dubbed ‘the Gateway to Connemara’ and amongst them is the picturesque Gaeltacht village of Moycullen. This village effortlessly captures the heart and soul of Ireland's rugged beauty. With its rolling green hills, tranquil lakes, and a sense of community that extends generations, discover it all for yourself this year…
above: photo courtesy of Loughwell Farm Park
Quality Activities Await
A great place to begin your journey around Moycullen is with a location that truly offers it all - Wildlands. This state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor activity centre features a wide variety of activities that are suitable for all ages. Their onsite restaurant, the Olive Tree Kitchen will satisfy all your food and drink needs while you play. As well as that you can opt to stay in their cosy log cabins for a truly immersive experience, more on that in a bit. If you are travelling with kids and need to keep them entertained, Loughwell Farm Park should definitely be on your to-visit list! Offering loads of fantastic activities for all the family, you can meet friendly farm animals, stroll the beautiful fairy trail and visit the park’s many play areas. When the weather is on your side, we highly recommend completing the Killarainey Woods Walk. This trail has a heritage focus with information signage at or near the points of interest along the route through the Killarainey woodlands.
Built on the site of the old railway station, Connemara Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre gives guests a chance to meet the craftsmen who hand-cut each of their exquisite, Celtic designs. All their creations are sold exclusively in their shop and gallery so this is your chance to bring home a unique gift from Connemara. During the warmer months, both kayaking and fishing are popular activities on the neighbouring Lough Corrib and are unique ways to explore the local landscape. We also recommend booking a guided horse-riding tour with Connemara Equestrian Escapes. Their tours will give you the chance to get off the beaten path to immerse yourself in the gorgeous sights of Connemara. For more information on all the different things to do and the local historical places of interest, visit the Moycullen Heritage website here. Only a short spin further on is the gorgeous Celtic gardens and tourist attraction, Brigit’s Garden.
above: photo courtesy of Brigit's Garden
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
If you want to experience a completely different pace of living, escape to Wildlands for days of fun and utter comfort. When you’re not flying through the skies on the zipline or testing your skills in the challenge rooms, enjoy absolute relaxation in one of their new on-site log cabins with luxury interiors throughout. There are 5 different styles of cabins available, - studio cabins, two bed family cabins; large studio cabins; large studio cabins with kids room; and a large accessible cabin. After a busy day at the activity centre, doze off to the sounds of nature and wake up feeling refreshed and hungry for more adventures. Book your stay right here.
Take a trip around the Shops
While you are in the village, treat yourself to a well-deserved shopping spree! The ladies fashion boutique, Fusion Fashion is now stocking a gorgeous winter collection and has outfits for all occasions, you can also visit Emily Jean Atelier for stunning hats and jewellery. If you are shopping for Christmas presents,you’ll make some fantastic finds while browsing the shelves and rails at Madra Charity Shops. Another great option is Moycullen Woodworks who create custom built furniture pieces that are guaranteed to wow. Alternatively, pick up a beautiful piece of handmade pottery from the studio of Orla Culligan Ceramics. Home to appealing literary genres for all ages, Moycullen Bookshop contains an amazing collection of books along with art & craft materials and the delightful Toy Corner has something on offer for kids of all ages, even the grown up ones!
above: photo of Moycullen Bookshop, by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
If keeping active is a priority, let the health and fitness experts at Wild Way Strength & Fitness coach you along your journey. Around the corner the award-winning Elysium Skincare Clinic boasts an array of prescriptive skin treatments, home-care plans and also houses a surgeon led medical aesthetic clinic.
Every Thursday and Friday, Quinn’s Fruit & Veg sets up shop in Moycullen selling their deliciously fresh, seasonal produce. Another highlight of the week is the famous Moycullen Market. Taking place on Fridays at An Fuaran, we recommend taking an afternoon to stroll around the stalls and soak in the buzz of this colourful marketplace. When you need to take care of buying the essentials, SuperValu and the three pharmacies will keep you well stocked. Additionally, the zero waste refill and eco-friendly shop Replenish, and Evergreen Healthfoods’ supply of quality supplements and health foods will help you stay in mint condition as you explore the Galway countryside.
Tempt your Taste Buds
There are loads of fantastic foodie spots to check off your bucket list around the village itself. A location where gifts and dining come together, White Gables offers everything from delicious meals and fresh baked goods, to hampers and unique homeware. For a delicious feed of homemade pizzas, opt for the family-owned Italian Roma Takeaway & Pizzeria. Whereas if it’s a refreshing pint of Guinness you’re after, the welcoming Regan’s Bar has a high stool with your name on it. Additionally, you won’t go wrong with a visit to The Forge Gastrobar. Delicious food and beverages is their speciality and they really do offer something the whole family can love.
Sample Something Sweet - Coffee and a Treat
When you are in need of a caffeine topup, stop by one of Moycullen’s cafés including; the all-day culinary delight Café Nua, and the authentic Mediterranean Galway Cakery, who’s cakes and baked goods are a sweet addition to all trips to Moycullen. Merging coffee, wine and retail in one space, Tree Bark Store is home to one-of-a-kind Irish craft gifts, speciality coffee, pastries and organic wines. By the entrance of Wildlands activity centre, pull up by the eye-catching pink van of Mama No Drama to enjoy some delicious hot chocolate, sandwiches and treats.
above: photo courtesy of Tree Bark Store
Feature photo courtesy of Wildlands
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