Spirit One Spa, Galway

Advantages: A great base for touring and a city full of life and vitality.
Disadvantages: Patchy public transport and some ugly ribbon building.

...on a budget. Scheduled bus services beyond Galway have a weird logic of their own which we were no nearer fathoming out by the end of our holiday. Surely, we thought, there would be a bus between Galway and the nearby town of Westport. Indeed there was, but not one that would leave early enough in the morning and return late enough in the evening to plan a day trip. Westport remains a mystery. As a base to explore the West Coast without a car, Galway is unrivalled. Try to stay as near to the centre of town as you can. Wonderful self-catering bargains are always to be found in the classified adertisements of the Irish Post, widely available in newsagents this side of the water. Galway has its fair share of costly restaraunts but for families on a budget there were a fair number of affordable diners, which were good value. If you have never... Read review

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Advantages: Views, facilities, excellent staff
Disadvantages: A bit pricey

...I stayed in this hotel nearly a year agoa, so I hope standards haven't slipped since then! Was in Galway on business and was recommended this hotel. It's located just outside the city - Salthill direction, and has commanding views of the sea. I found the staff to be very helpfull and in good spirits throughout my stay. Hotel decor is bright and airy. Rooms are large as are the en suite bathrooms. Facilities are extensive and each room are well equiped as you would expect for a 4 star hotel. Did avail of breakfast in bed for an additional charge of E5 but it was well worth it. The food was tasty with a good selection available for a all. So I would have no hessitation recommending this hotel - ideal for those looking to be pampered!... Read review

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Advantages: Great atmostphere in bars & on the street, relaxed place, loads of pubs,
Disadvantages: Not a great deal to do

...Unfortunately, we only spent 1 night in Galway but what a contrast to Dublin. Having been to Ireland over 10 times and spent most of it in Navan & Dublin, it was nice to go somewhere different. Getting There>>>>>>> Situated on the West Coast, Galway is about 3 hours drive from Dublin. It's meant to be 2.5 hours by train, but ours took 5 hours (not nice). If drivings not for you, then a coach goes from O'Connell Street every hour, costs 9 punts one way or 12 return and isn't too bad. This bus drops you in the heart of Galway, a short walk from the main square and near the train station. However, to get there, I'd recommend hiring a car for a few reasons. Firstly , the trains only run 6 times a day, aren't the best but quite cheap. Secondly, Galway isn't massive, so you'll run out of things to do, unless all you want to do all... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful