The traditional Irish seaport village with a number of popular tourist attractions – and it’s easy to see it’s a firm favourite amongst visitors
The vibrant village is located on the southern shores of Galway Bay(Image: © Marco Bottigelli via Getty Images)
The ideal base for those discovering the Wild Atlantic Way, this charming village isn’t just a feast for the eyes but also offers numerous tranquil retreats for a much-deserved rest.
Kinvara is a harbour village in County Galway, Ireland, that has preserved many Irish customs whilst welcoming visitors from across the globe. The main street boasts an array of delectable dining establishments and a lively pub culture, with many specialising in mouth-watering seafood, courtesy of its coastal position.
The brightly painted yellow bar and eatery called the Pier Head is particularly popular with residents. It’s joined by other outstanding venues including Keogh’s Restaurant, Connolly’s and The Glass Door – all boasting impressive TripAdvisor reviews.
Traditional Irish pubs throughout the village regularly feature live music alongside their warm, welcoming atmosphere. In keeping with Irish tradition, many pour a proper pint of Guinness alongside various regional beers in cosy surroundings. Enhancing that sense of community is the weekly Kinvara Farmers’ Market, taking place every Friday between 10am and 2pm.
Operating from March through October annually, it highlights regional produce allowing tourists to savour an authentic flavour of Ireland. As well as this, positioned on the village’s edge sits Kinvara Harbour, which forms the beating heart of this coastal gem.
Every year it plays host to the Cruinniu na mBad Festival, an event which honours the Galway hooker, a collection of traditional sailing vessels, and serves to preserve the village’s cultural legacy. One visitor revealed they could easily “sit there all day” gazing out across the waters.
They wrote: “This lovely little harbour is just the best! There are benches right along the grassy area alongside the harbour that you can sit on and enjoy the breeze, the sunset or sunrise and the movement and activity of the town.”
A favourite destination that draws many to the village is the remnants of the stunning Dunguaire Castle. The 16th-century tower house commands views over Galway Bay’s shoreline, providing breathtaking vistas and a pleasant stroll from the village centre.
In the 17th century ownership of the castle transferred to the Martyns of Galway and served as the home of Galway’s Mayor until 1642.
At present, while the castle’s exterior remains accessible to wandering visitors, the interior has been sealed off for several years due to safety concerns whilst awaiting refurbishment.
One recent guest posted on TripAdvisor: “A castle in a magnificent setting on the banks of Galway Bay, overlooking Kinvarra Town. You can even wander around the castle, but be cautious during the wet season. Although the castle is not open to the public, it is well worth a visit.”
Another commented: “We visited this castle during our tour in Ireland, and it was a stunning surprise. Just half an hour’s drive from Galway, this small castle is perfectly preserved and contains a detailed explanation of its history.”
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