Welcome to Galway
According to Lonely Planet, arty, bohemian Galway (Gaillimh) is renowned for its pleasures. Brightly painted pubs heave with live music, while cafes offer front-row seats for observing street performers, weekend parties run amuck, lovers entwined and more.
Steeped in history, the city nonetheless has a contemporary vibe. Students make up a quarter of its population, and remnants of the medieval town walls lie between shops selling Aran sweaters, handcrafted Claddagh rings and stacks of second-hand and new books. Bridges arch over the salmon-filled River Corrib, and a long promenade leads to the seaside suburb of Salthill, on Galway Bay, the source of the area’s famous oysters.
Galway is often referred to as the ‘most Irish’ of Ireland’s cities, it’s the only one where you’re likely to hear Irish spoken in the streets, shops and pubs. Even as it careens into the modern age, it still respects the fabric of its past.
Once You're Here...
You’ll need somewhere to rest your weary legs. Check out our list of recommended hotels and hostels below:
Galway Bay Hotel
Salthill, Galway
+353 (0)91 520520
www.galwaybayhotel.com
info@galwaybayhotel.com
The 4 Star Galway Bay Hotel is beautifully situated on the promenade in Salthill, overlooking the Clare Hills and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy fine dining, great food and great ‘craic agus ceoil’ in this award-winning ‘Best 4 Star Hotel’. A shopper’s paradise awaits you just 5 minutes from the hotel, along with great eateries, comedy clubs and superb nightlife… something for everyone. Although sold out for Friday October 5th, there are a number of rooms available for €75 B & B per person sharing for Saturday October 6th simply mention Run Galway Bay at time of booking.
The Nest Boutique Hostel
Salthill, Galway
+353 (0)91 450944
reservations@thenestaccommodation.com
www.thenestaccommodation.com
The Nest Boutique Hostel is an alternative accommodation concept which blurs the lines between an AirBnB, hotel and a hostel by offering a quality accommodation with unique social spaces, attention to detail, an industrial touch and a strong emphasis on the local community.
The Connacht Hotel
Dublin Road, Renmore, Galway
+353 (0)91 381200
www.theconnacht.ie
reservations@theconnacht.ie
The Connacht Hotel prides itself on its valued customer service to a wide variety of clientele. Accommodation options include family rooms, interconnecting rooms, family suites and self-catering apartments.
Nox Hotel
Headford Rd, Galway
+353 (0)91-753333
www.noxhotel.ie
sleep@noxhotel.ie
A recent addition to Galway’s hotel scene, Nox Hotel offers guest a trendy and contemporary environment to relax in. All of our rooms are decorated with vibrant colours, comfortable mattresses and plump pillows with tea and coffee making facilities in all rooms and Nespresso Coffee machines in our Signature King rooms. Nox is located a 15 minute walk away from Galway’s bustling city centre and offers guests ample free car parking. Our on-site restaurant Fork offers Georgina Campbell award-winning Breakfasts, sumptuous lunches and delicious dinners. Contact us for Run Galway Bay rates.
The g Hotel & Spa
Wellpark, Galway City
+353 (0)91 865200
www.theghotel.ie
stay@theg.ie
Galway city’s only 5 star hotel and destination spa, the g Hotel & Spa overlooks Lough Atalia as you enter Galway city centre. Each light-filled guestroom has the distinctive touch of Design Director and Milliner, Philip Treacy. The dramatic Signature Lounges at the g are ideal for casual dining and Afternoon Tea. Restaurant gigi’s was awarded ‘Best Hotel Restaurant in Galway’ at the 2016 Irish Restaurant Awards and the 20,000sqm luxury spa ‘ESPA at the g’ is sublime. Perfect for pre or post marathon preparation. Soothe your muscles in the Thermal Suite with vitality hydro pool, water massagers, crystal steam room, rock sauna, heated tepidarium loungers, rainforest, artic and ice showers. Indulge in a Fitness Massage and relax the mind in the naturally lit Relaxation Lounge overlooking the zen bamboo terrace. Complimentary parking and Wi-Fi.
Seashore Lodge B & B
No 4 Cashelmara, Knocknacarra Cross, Salthill, Galway
+353 (0)91 529189
www.costellosseashorelodge.com
ncostello@eircom.net
Purpose built B&B on coast road near Salthill, gateway to Connemara. Overlooking Galway Bay. Close to supermarket, pub and restaurants and the race start line.