Carraroe
Visit An Cheathrú Rua in the Galway Gaeltacht
Carraroe, County Galway, Ireland, boasts Trá an Dóilín/Coral Strand, a popular and unusual beach ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with a lifeguard during summers. The beach’s unique coral-like formations intrigue visitors, formed by lime leaching out of seaweed. Teampall Bharr an Doire, dating back to the 15th century, is the area’s oldest ruin, built in one night according to legend. Local landmarks include Cnoc an Phobail, Loch na Naomh, and An Séipéal, each steeped in history and folklore. Notable sites like Tobar na Croise and Leic an Phátrúin are highlights of local cultural heritage, along with tales of giants and smugglers which add to Carraroe’s rich narrative.
Home of Galway Hooker boats
Galway Hookers are a distinctive form of native Irish boat, and beautiful Carraroe is the epicentre of their preservation and revival. Here the small number of Galway Hookers which are still in seaworthy condition are pitted against each other in the annual “Féile an Dóilín”, the largest Hooker festival in Ireland, and indeed one of the largest maritime festivals in the country. But Galway Hookers sail these waters throughout the year, gliding silently in and out between the headlands and the islands, their black voluminous hulls riding high on the water, and their bright rust coloured sails heeled over in the Atlantic wind. Up until the 1950′s the Galway Hooker was the means by which all supplies and livestock were ferried in and out of the islands, and the Hooker’s hull was built wide and deep to accommodate heavy loads.
Things to do in Carraroe
- “Labhair Gaeilge” / Speak Irish. The local shops and cafes will be delighted to have you practice your Irish. Don’t be shy about trying out your “cupla focal”.
- You have to swim at the coral beach, just one of two Irish beaches with coral shingle. Carraroe’s Blue Flag beach, which translates into Irish as “Trá an Dóilin”, is set in an area of great natural beauty. The beach is noted for its very fine coral, one of just two beaches on the West of Ireland with coral shingle. There are lots of little rock pools to explore, as well as excellent scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities. Be aware however that visitors are asked not to remove pieces of the coral.
- Potter around Caladh Thadhg pier and enjoy the presence of traditional boats. Ask locally is any boats are being made on the area, and if possible get to visit.
- Carraroe is perfect cycling territory, and indeed views like these are best seen from a bicycle. Put your bike in the back of your car and take to two wheels as soon as you arrive.
How to get to Carraroe 🚌
By bus, or car. Bus Eireann Route 424 provides a service from Galway to Carraroe. Alternatively take the R336 west from Galway to Casla, and then the R343 to Carraroe.
Places to Eat in Carraroe 🍽️
Bia Blasta
Craving tasty food in a friendly atmosphere? Look no further than Bia Blasta in Carraroe! This popular cafe caters to all appetites, from hearty breakfasts (including a veggie option) to lunchtime delights. Whether you’re tempted by their signature Cajun chicken wrap with chips or a comforting vegetable lasagna with salad, Bia Blasta offers something for everyone, including vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. A dedicated kids menu with milkshakes ensures families feel welcome.
An Realt Bar & Restaurant
An Realt Bar & Guesthouse, a family-run pub in Connemara, welcomes you! Relax in their cosy bar or enjoy live music in the lounge. They offer classic pub fare like burgers and fish & chips (€16.50-€20). Located at the end of the main street in Carraroe, it’s a 10-minute walk to Trá an Dóilín beach. Come for the craic (fun), ceol (music), and comhfort (comfort)!
POTA Café
POTA Café is housed in a charming thatched building on a 10-minute drive from Carraroe and offers a delightful fusion of Irish language and delicious food. Their commitment to sustainability shines through local ingredients from An Garrai Glas farm and McGeough’s butchery. Enjoy fresh salads, seafood, and goat’s cheese, or indulge in a hot pot. The contemporary interior is bathed in light with comfortable seating throughout, while the outdoor space is perfect for picnics before exploring nearby beaches.
Where to stay 🛌
Carraroe has a good selection of comfortable places to stay including small hotels, self-catering holiday homes, guesthouses and B&B’s.
Follow the coast 🌊
Carraroe is surrounded by beautiful coastal towns. Don’t miss Lettermore and Kilkieran if you are travelling north, and Rossaveel, and An Spidéal, if you are travelling south.
Carraroe map
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