Self catering country cottage holidays in the West of Ireland

The West of the Republic of Ireland is an astonishingly alluring place and one of the most frequented tourist destinations. Encompassing the beautiful areas of Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, the West of Ireland provides visitors with some of the most stunning sceneries in the world. Blessed with miles and miles of beautiful Irish countryside, it is an excellent destination for country cottage holidays.

Enjoy discovering breathtaking landscapes, vast meandering rivers, valleys, a beautiful coastline and ascending sea cliffs. Galway in particular is a remarkable place to visit with a unique atmosphere and rugged landscape.

Find country cottages in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

There are several dramatic as well as wild landmarks in County Galway. The craggy countryside boasts tranquil lakes along the Aran Island, wherein visitors can take in breathtaking beauty and enjoy the serene atmosphere. During a self catering cottage stay in Galway, there are a number of interesting historical buildings to see including Lynch's Castle, Galway Cathedral and Galway City Museum.

Galway is a superb location for nature lovers as the place is blessed with natural treasures including calm beaches and majestic mountains. With fabulous pubs and friendly Irish people, the buzzing city of Galway is an ideal destination for a fun self catering break. Whilst enjoying a self catering stay, tourists can drive, cycle or walk on some of the most adventurous scenic treks in the world. The Connemara National Park situated in the west of Galway boasts a varied wildlife and rich biodiversity.

Mayo is bestowed with golden sand beaches, several fishing venues, exciting hiking trails and excellent golf courses. With a long coastline, there are a number of islands, bays, cliffs and mountains in Mayo. There are loads of opportunities to take part in adventurous activities in this part of Ireland.  Visitors can enjoy cycling along the traffic free Western Green Way.  Whether you prefer to take it easy or want an action packed holiday, there is plenty of choice with a cottage holiday in the West of Ireland.

Tourists with a keen interest in the cultural heritage of Ireland can visit the famous pilgrimage site Croagh Patrick, along with Ireland’s holy mountain and the beautiful National Famine Memorial. The Westport House Estate, Knock Shrine and Ballintubber Abbey are other points of interest.

Many like to stop off at Mayo’s famous river, the Moy, which offers ample opportunities for fishing and several water activities. Mayo is also home to a number of popular golf courses. The classic Carne Golf Links nestled along the edge of the Atlantic is one of the most popular golf courses.

The Céide Fields near Ballycastle, Hennigans Heritage Farm and the National Museum of Country Life just outside of Castlebar are some world famous heritage highlights.  Whilst enjoying a country cottage holiday you may also want to make a visit to the Royal Theatre & Event Centre in Mayo for a memorable night out.

If you are after a peaceful self catering holiday you may wish to go to Roscommon in the West of Ireland, an area known for its calm and tranquil feel.  Here you can experience the scintillating appeal of nature with the majestic mountains and alluring moors and lakes.

Not to be missed is Lough Key forest park where you can enjoy biking, hiking or walking, depending on your preference.  At this park there are 350 hectares of beautiful scenery.  For a taste of history and for those who love country houses you may want to visit majestic Boyle Abbey or Strokestown Park House in Roscommon.

Also in the region of Roscommon is Castlerea Railway Museum and Pub, the second largest repository of railway heritage memorabilia in Roscommon. This railway museum with pub is believed to be only one of its kind in the world.  There is also plenty of opportunities for shopping in Roscommon, if you feel the need for a little retail therapy.

Besides shopping, sightseeing and activities, there are also fun-filled and lively festivals and fairs in West Ireland such as Galway Arts Festival, Knockcroghery Fair, Boyle Arts Festival and Louisburg Feile Chois Cuain, to name a few.

Wherever you decide to take a self catering break in the West of Ireland, whether you opt for a pet friendly cottage, romantic cottage or a large house, we trust that you will enjoy all that this beautiful part of Ireland has to offer.