Portumna
1,000 acres of woodland on the shores of Lough Derg
In the south-eastern end of Galway county, 20 miles (332 km) from Ballinasloe, Portumna is well known as a fishing centre and marina for Lough Derg and the Shannon and has golf and tennis.
Things to see and do
Outside the town are the imposing ruins of Portumna Castle, constructed by the de Burgo (Burke) family about 400 years ago with evident Jacobean architecture. It served as the primary residence for the de Burgo clan for over two centuries until a fire ravaged it in 1826. The castle features formal gardens to the north, showcasing geometric layouts including a willow maze to explore.
Portumna Forest Park is one mile (2 km) from the town on the Ennis road. This wildlife sanctuary of one thousand acres borders Lough Derg and has a laid out nature trail and many lovely forest walks and waymarked cycling trails.
Also worth a visit is the Irish Workhouse Centre preserving the history of Irish workhouses, spanning 1840s-1920s, which offered indoor relief to destitute poor during times like the Great Famine. With 163 establishments, they aimed to provide aid but often became grim last resorts. Families were separated, living in squalid conditions, compelled to work for basic needs. The system, intended to deter idleness, perpetuated poverty cycles. By the early 20th century, evolving welfare policies led to their decline, replaced by more compassionate approaches. Nonetheless, the workhouse legacy remains, reminding us of the struggles endured by Ireland’s impoverished and marginalized populations during a tumultuous era.
Where to stay
Portumna offers plenty of quality, contemporary, comfortable hotels, guesthouses and B&B’s to choose from.
How to get to Portumna
By bus on Citylink and Local Link. From Galway to Ballinasloe with Citylink, then Ballinasloe to Portumna with Local Link. Check times with Transport for Ireland. Alternatively travel by car from Galway to Portumna by taking the M6 to N65 roads south east from Galway.
See Portumna before you go
Map of Portumna, Co. Galway
Best Rate Hotels
