See the Sights

On your way into Kinvara from Galway City, call into Kiltartan Gregory Museum

Open every summer, this museum offers a glimpse into the history of the local area, and the lives of some of its most fascinating figures including Lady Gregory. The perfect introduction to the beautiful biodiversity of The Burren region, Burren Nature Sanctuary offers days of fun and discovery. Stroll the natural trails in the ancient woodlands, meet friendly farm animals and learn about the area’s unique flora and landscape. Just remember to bring your camera as you never know when a photo opp will present itself! If your interest in the Burren area has been piqued, Heart of Burren Walks is just the thing for you. Join expert and author Tony Kirby as he leads you on a walking tour of one of the most distinctive landscapes in Europe. A bit further west, stop by the gorgeous coastline of Traught Beach. Situated right along the Irish West Coast, this is a great spot for a swim, walk or picnic. If cycling is your buzz, the Galway Greenway passes through Kinvara and allows for many day trips to the surrounding areas, including Rinville Park, Clarinbridge, and Coole Park.

Closer to the village itself, one of the most photographed castles in the West of Ireland, Dunguaire Castle is a 16th century tower house that has stood proudly on the site of the 7th-century stronghold of Guaire, the King of Connaught, for centuries. This castle provides an in-depth insight into the lives of its inhabitants through medieval banquets that feature fine wines and foods, stories and great literary excerpts. KAVA - Kinvara Area Visual Arts promotes the visual arts and highlights the work of local artists. They frequently host exhibitions in Kinvara’s Courthouse, so be sure to check them out. If you are planning a visit, stick around for Cruinniú na mBad, running from 11th to 13th of August, this one of Ireland’s longest running traditional sailing festivals, and it well worth experiencing while in the West of Ireland.

Shop Local Crafts & Designs

A collective of artists and craftspeople, The Secret Garden fairy shop offers a mix of handmade gifts and artwork. They are also home to a very cute fairy garden. Cuckoo Craft & Design gift shop is an adorable store containing loads of unique items you won’t find anywhere else, we can guarantee you will fall in love with this store as soon as you step in the door. The origins of many well-known Galway brands, Kinvara Farmers Market runs every Friday on Courthouse Rd. Stalls line the street with everything from tasty home-baked treats to artisan crafts. There is also live music by local musicians, which sets the scene for a wholesome shopping experience.

Stay & Dine your Way around Kinvara your

While we are about to touch on the incredible offerings of SIAR and The Pier Head Bar and Restaurant, there are more dining options around the village including; Tully’s Bar, Zen Asian Restaurant and Keogh’s of Kinvara. Additionally, the eyecatching Green’s Bar is a traditional Irish pub at its finest, especially if experiencing some ceoil and craic is on your itinerary. Linnane’s Lobster Bar, not strictly in Kinvara but too close and too delicious to leave out. Sit on the terrace and watch the boats fishing for Shellfish that can literally be served to your table. Stunning food in the heart of the Burren. So, if a day trip isn’t long enough for you to tick everything off your to-visit list, book your stay at the luxurious Kinvara Guesthouse. They offer a diverse variety of rooms and 4 star, self-catering thatched cottages, which are ideal for both groups and families.

Run by a team of like minded coffee loving foodies, SIAR is the place to taste delicious food, hear live music, browse some natural wines and generally enjoy meeting family, friends & colleagues over a coffee or glass of wine.

The word SIAR is a lyrical Irish term used to envisage ‘going west’, perfectly encapsulating the story of Mike Considine and Ciara Russell. Mike moved from Los Angeles back home to Kinvara to open an arts gallery where he met his partner from Dublin - Ciara. Together they set out to create a cultural hub in the heart of Kinvara, where people could come together and enjoy new experiences.

SIAR offers its visitors specialty coffee from Burren roasted Anam Coffee, house made cakes with vegan and gluten free options, alongside a delicious menu of sandwiches, dhals, curries and salads. Their wine selection comprises natural and biodynamic wines and always stocks new flavours and styles and their shelves are filled with Irish products and gifts that are available for purchase. Home to the Siar Session Series, SIAR is the perfect place to be inspired by artistic creativity. Their annual music program has featured Irish artists including Síomha, John Conneely Inc, Frankie Gavin, Noel Hill, Cormac Breatnach, and this year’s lineup will not disappoint!

SIAR is unique in its ability to cluster their community in an inviting, relaxed space to enjoy delicious dishes, the finest wines and hear amazing music.