Top 8 Things to do in Oughterard, Ireland

Buried beneath the Connemara Mountain lies a way of life long abandoned and almost forgotten just waiting for you to explore! Let the team at Glengowla Mines lead you on a journey of discovery of how lead and silver were mined from the roots of the Connemara Mountains in the 1800’s. The constant dripping of water, the ‘miners breath’ and if you are brave enough - a moment of darkness will set the scene! Delve into the depths of Glengowla mines where you can explore the caverns of marble studded with lead and silver. Follow the veins of copper pyrite which will lead you to the ‘miners gold’ - Galena. Marvel at the rare and beautiful crystals of quartz and fluorite. Learn of the working conditions the miners worked under before the mines closed in 1865. A firm favourite with adults and children alike is to pan for gold and gems at our gold panning station and keep any gems you find! Not only will you enjoy guided tours of the mines, Glengowla is also home to a seismograph which is part of Ireland’s National Seismic Network. See how the seismograph works and how the impact of earthquakes can shake the earth world wide! Glengowla is also working farm where you can visit the Connemara Ponies, meet the Bob the sheep dog, pet the lambs and for advanced group bookings sheep dog herding demonstrations and turf cutting demonstrations are available. Also take the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the farm along the old Connemara railway line and discover some of the local flora and fauna. Make a day of it and bring your own picnic! Also available on site: Gift Shop, Refreshments and Outdoor Seating Area, Museum & Free Car Parking.Please Note the mine is now closed for the Winter but if you like to pre book we can run a tour for your group. Mine reopens daily next March.

Built by the O'Flahertys c. 1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. In 1546 the O'Flaherty's motto "Fortune favours the strong" and the powerful Mayo O'Malleys Motto "Powerful by land and by sea", were joined in the marriage of Donal an Chogaidh O'Flaherty and Grainuaile/Grace O'Malley. Standing on what is virtually a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. In addition, visitors will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour.

Oughterard Golf Club is renowned for its hospitality and is an ideal venue to include on a memorable golfing holiday in the West of Ireland. Oughterard Golf Club has the full range of facilities to ensure your visit is memorable. Oughterard Golf Club is an 18 Hole parkland course, which is lined with mature native Irish trees, including Oak, Hazel and Birch. It is an excellent test of golf for, with numerous water features, sand bunkers etc. that are strategically placed to protect the par of the course.

Cead Mile Failte – “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” to Keogh’s Irish Gifts and to our little corner of Ireland – Oughterard, Co. Galway! We are a family-run Irish Gift Shop on Main Street, Oughterard established in 1945 by John P. Keogh. John’s son Henry, and wife Mary, have carried on operating the shop for the past 30 years, along with their three children Oisin, Siofra and Bonnie. Read more about