GURTEEN BEACH/DOGS BAY

Roundstone has 2 fantastic beaches within easy access of the rental houses. Gurteen Beach is the larger of the two local beaches and the closest to Roundstone. The water is crystal clear and it is very safe for swimming and other water based activities.

ERRISBEG

Errisbeg Mountain (298metres) is located to the west of Roundstone Village. It is approximately a 2 hr walk to the summit of Errisbeg. The walk is pleasant but become gradually more taxing, however on reaching the summit, you are rewarded with a stunning view over a large area around Roundstone. Only from this vantage point can you see the lake strewn boglands to the north of Roundstone. The islands to the south and the bay itself are shown in great detail that is clear from

THE MICHAEL KILLEEN PARK

The Michael Killeen Park, or I.D.A Park as it is known locally, is a small craft centre with various factory shops selling everything from Jewellery to Sweaters. The park was built on the grounds of an old Franciscan monastery that was first established in 1835. The Franciscan monks left the monastery in the mid 1970’s. The monastery was bought by the Irish Development Authority (I.D.A) to make way for a small housing development and craft centre. Three of the four workshops are now occupied; Roundstone Musical Instruments manufacture a range of musical instruments and souvenir shop, Roundstone Ceramics make hand made Pottery and The House of Magoide sell jewellery and gifts. The bell tower in the centre of the park and the old monastery walls surrounding it are the last remaining features of the old monastery.

FISHING

For Decades Fishing was the primary industry in Roundstone. With its naturally sheltered harbour and easy access to the open waters it was a Fishing centre for much of the last two centuries. For the adventurous fisherman, a boat can be chartered for a days fishing from the harbour in Roundstone village and will bring you to excellent Cod, Ling, Ray, Mackerel, Wrasse, Turbot, dogfish and even Shark locations. For a more sedate fishing experience there are numerous rivers and lakes around Roundstone which offer the fresh water angler opportunities to catch Salmon, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout and Eels. Permits have to be obtained in order to fish some of the lakes and rivers, more information can be found at G. Stanley & Son, Market Street, Clifden.

THE TWELVE PINS / THE TWELVE BENS

Located to the North of Roundstone Village, the Twelve Bens are a mountain range that defines the Connemara landscape. They are easily accessible from the N59 and whilst they are not particularly high (730 metres is the highest peak) they provide excellent walking and climbing opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. They are very safe and you do not have to be an experienced climber to enjoy the wonderful scenery that you will be rewarded with. As with all Hill walking it is recommended to take precautions with safety and respect the lands upon which you are travelling through.

BICYCLING

Bicycles can be rented year-round from Mannion Cycles, Bridge Street, Clifden, County Galway (tel. 095/21160). The rate for a regular touring bike in high season starts at around €9 ($12) per day. Mountain bikes can be hired from May through October at the Little Killary Adventure Company, Leenane, County Galway (tel. 095/43411; www.killary.com). They go for €20 ($26) per day, and road bikes for €14 ($18) per day.

HORSEBACK RIDING

See the beaches of Connemara from horseback on a trek with the Cleggan Riding Centre, Clegan, County Galway (tel. 095 44746; www.clegganridingcentre.com). The centre offers beach and mountain treks, and the most popular is a 3-hour ride to Omey Island at low tide. Explore with Connemara and Coast Trails, Loughrea, County Galway (tel. 091 841216; www.connemara-trails.com). Rides are for experienced and beginning riders alike.

GOLF

Visitors are welcome at the 18-hole, par-72 championship seaside course of the Connemara Golf Club, Ballyconneely, Clifden, County Galway (tel. 095 23502; This challenging 18 hole championship level course offers a test for all levels of golfer and provides fantastic scenery to distract you while you are looking for that lost ball. www.connemaragolflinks.com