Explore Roundstone Bay

Location and Scenic Beauty

Roundstone is a charming village located in Connemara on the west coast of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way. It is nestled between Inishnee Island and Roundstone Bay to the front, and Errisbeg Mountain, Roundstone Hill, and the dominating Twelve Bens mountain range in the distance.

Roundstone is blessed with some of the best beaches in Ireland along a three-mile stretch of coastline. Gurteen and Dogs Bay are the most famous, curled back to back on a tombola. Just back from them is Ervallagh Beach, and looking across at the stunning Inishlacken Island sandbar beach located at the mouth of Roundstone Bay. One thing is for certain: you will not be stuck with a lack of beach options.

Vibrant Fishing Village

Roundstone is a bustling fishing village where you can see fishermen land their catch and enjoy it the very same day in the many pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Afterward, you can enjoy a few pints while listening to Irish music in the pubs. There are a wide variety of shops, including grocers, butchers, bakers, a service station, a knitwear shop, as well as jewellery, pottery, and bodhran making in the craft center located in the old Franciscan Monastery, which still has its tower, gates, and walled garden left.

Learn More

Artistic Haven

Roundstone has long been a favorite among artists. Sting owned a house here and wrote one of his albums in the village. Famous artists like Campbell, Dylan, and McIntyre spent a summer on Inishlacken Island, detailing their escapades on the trip.

Scenic Walkways and Tours

There are some stunning walkways from Roundstone, including amazing coastal routes, the Inishnee Loop, Ballinahinch walkways, or climbs up Errisbeg Mountain or Roundstone Hill for panoramic views. Alternatively, take to the sea for a tour to see Roundstone from a different angle.

Learn More

Historical Significance and Annual Events

Roundstone village was founded in the 1820s by celebrated Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo, who built many of the harbors along the west coast of Ireland. Many of these harbors, including Roundstone, are still in use today and are center stage for the highlight of the calendar each year: the Roundstone Regatta. Held every year in July, the regatta features traditional rowing boats, currachs, raced on the first day, and impressive Galway Hooker sailing boats raced on the second day. The event always draws huge crowds, especially if the weather is good. Pony shows, dog shows, and the Tour de Bog cycling events are also great fun in the village.

Accommodation Options

For accommodation, there is a wide range available, from self-catering, B&Bs, luxury retreats, hotels, camping, and glamping. There really is nowhere quite like Roundstone for its wild, rugged beauty and charm.

Learn More

Discover the majestic Wild Atlantic Way.

Explore 2,500 km of scenic coastline featuring white sands, towering sea cliffs, and unique local culture. Experience the Atlantic Ocean's powerful waves crashing against sea cliffs, stroll along expansive beaches, and watch flocks of birds soaring overhead.

Explore More