How to Spend the Perfect Day in Oranmore

Picturesque parks, mouth-watering food and drink and just a short hop away from Galway City, the charming and buzzy town of Oranmore has a lot to offer. 

Nestled on Galway Bay with Oranmore Castle and Rinville Park as the backdrop, this beautiful haven provides easy access to nature while boasting an ever-growing list of stunning eateries, coffee spots and shops.

Read on to discover our carefully curated guide for you next trip to the village. 

Rise and Shine

It's a crisp early morning, the birds are singing, and as you approach Oranmore, there's not a cloud in the sky.

Your first stop is to see the unmissable Oranmore Castle. Overlooking Galway Bay and the village, the castle is rich in history and a truly magical sight against the horizon. Now available on Airbnb, this beautiful unique stay is one to book in advance for a cosy night you'll never forget.

Time for a nourishing snack

In our opinion, a town can never have too many coffee spots and Oranmore welcomed a fantastic addition last Summer with Sláinte. Recognized for its consistently excellent coffee, healthy treats and great-value lunch options, it’s become a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Offering everything from fresh acai bowls to hearty bagel sandwiches and healthier sweet treats, there's something on the menu for everyone.

Afternoon activities

After a delicious meal, escape to the beautiful Rinville Park. The park is built around a historic castle and house, with a stony beach and multiple walkways to choose from depending on how many steps you want to get in. It's a fantastic place to bring the kids, with bathrooms readily available as well as multiple picnic spots, a big playground and fairy doors. 

For those who can't resist a shopping spree, pop into Love it Fashions for a browse at their stylish yet affordable range. With a dedicated, fashion-forward team happy to assist, and much-loved brands such as Freddy, Rant and Rave, Kate and Pippa and Villa Joy in stock, you’re sure to come away with the perfect addition to your wardrobe after a visit to Love It.

Evening atmosphere

As evening approaches, it's time to start thinking about dinner. Oranmore has no shortage of delicious eateries, but a firm favourite of ours is the ever-popular Basilico. This charming restaurant has served authentic Italian food since 2008, and is known for its award-winning dishes and farm-to-fork approach. From tasty pizzas and high quality pastas do creative Mediterranean plates, you'll be planning your next visit back before you even get out the door.

If you're partial to a glass of wine, a visit to Fawn is a no-brainer. This fantastic addition to Galway’s food scene, offers an atmospheric wine bar on one side and a buzzing restaurant on the other. With an extensive list of wines by the glass and choice of plates, the attentive, knowledgeable staff ensure a top-tier experience, answering any questions even when the place is packed.

If you're tempted to stay

If a day-trip to the buzzing Oranmore wasn't quite enough, you're in luck as we've picked some excellent stays where you can relax and relish in the beauty of Oranmore.

First up is The Coach House, located in the heart of Oranmore, this cosy hotel is the perfect base for exploring the west. Enjoy easy access to Galway, Connemara and the M6 motorway for longer day trips. It’s a quieter alternative to staying in central Galway, yet full of charm, with lively pubs and local shops right on your doorstep.

Another great option is the picture perfect Oranmore Lodge. Beloved by locals, which is the best accolade a spot could have, The Oranmore Lodge blends historic charm with cosy, modern comfort. For more than 40 years, it’s offered warm welcomes, memorable celebrations and top notch Irish hospitality.