Local Attractions and Activities in Loughrea and Galway

Loughrea or ‘Baile Locha Riach’ as its Irish name translates, was a market town that was formerly one of Connaught’s administrative centres. The town stands on the edge of the ‘silver lake’ which is an excellent stretch of water, suitable for sailboarding, wind surfing and canoeing. Loughrea Lake, which is a large limestone lake, boasts a blue flag which makes it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike for swimming. It's also a renowned fishing destination, well known for its abundant stock of Trout, Perch and Pike.

Loughrea also boasts an excellent 18 hole Golf course and driving range and given the nature of the surrounding rolling terrain, equestrian interests will be satisfied as horse riding is available locally. You may even take a romantic stroll down one of the many “boreens” and inhale the fresh west of Ireland air. The word “Boreen” is a corruption of the gaelic irish word ‘bótharín’ which means ‘small road’ and that is exactly what they are. Used in the past as trackways for horse and donkey carts, they still retain the old-world, pre-automobile feeling. Bound by dry stone walls on either side, the roadside flora and fauna is something to behold. If the weather is not so kind, you may want to take advantage of a spot of shopping in Loughrea itself or Galway city. Alternatively, one may ramble in to the neighbouring historic town of Athenry or to Yeats’ Tower in Thoor Ballylee just outside Gort. If the outdoor beckons, you may take a trip to Turoe Pet Farm and Leisure Park in Bullaun and to the famous Turoe Stone a piece of antiquity dating from the 3rd to the 2nd century BC.

Loughrea town boasts the magnificient St Brendan's Cathedral with it's world famous stained glass and the amazing Carmelite Abbey so you can while away an afternoon soaking up their splendour and history and then return at your leisure to enjoy lunch or dinner and drinks in the MEADOW COURT. If a round of golf interests you then we are just minutes away from one of the finest Parkland courses in the country - Loughrea Golf Club . It offers a challenging course which is always in excellent condition.  You may rather sit back and relax in one of our comfy chairs and watch the Golf on SKY Sports in our bar, or indeed any sport you wish. Maybe you like a spin in the fast lane and if that is the case then you will be delighted to know that the extremely popular Pallas Karting is just a few miles drive from here and you can enjoy the track even more with a special discount rate which you will receive while staying at the Meadow Court Hotel. For all horse lovers Dartfield Horse Museum is an adventure! It is the only museum in the world dedicated to Irish horses, Connemara Ponies and Irish Dogs. Horse riding is also available by the hour and is situated a short drive from the Meadow Court.

A day at the races surrounded by infectious party atmosphere may be just what you are looking for and if so the Meadow Court Hotel is situated just 15 minutes from the GALWAY RACECOURSE and is the ideal base for accommodation-in-Loughrea while enjoying the Galway Races. Adrenelin pumping Rugby can also be enjoyed in the homeground of the Connaucht Rugby Squad . Enjoy a fabulous meal in the MEADOW COURT HOTEL and just 15 minutes drive by car and you can enjoy all the craic and revelry that surrounds the sport. Perhaps you would like to take a trip to the beautifully rugged Clare Hills. If so our hotel in Loughrea is the ideal base for you to uncover the splendour of THE BURREN, the AILWEE CAVES, the BURREN PERFUMERY and the vast costal region of County Clare. A wonderful day trip with the Galway Tour Company is also a glorious way to see some of the magnificent sights of Galway. You can book your trip directly with the company and then just sit back and enjoy the scenery. Alternatively, Loughrea is only 33 miles (45 minute drive) from the heart of Ireland and capital of the midlands – Athlone town.

For those interested in History, a visit to the picturesque town of Portumna situated on the tip of Lough Derg is a must. Just a 30 minute drive from Loughrea, a visit to Portumna Irish Workhouse Center is an ideal day out to learn more about Ireland's history of the Famine and the introduction of Workhouses during this time. Portumna castle is also open to the public during the summer months. Visitors also explore Portumna forest park which has a number of different walks suitable for all ages.

In any case, a warm welcome will await you when you return to your accommodation in Loughrea the four star hotel in Loughrea Meadow Court Hotel.