Barna is a picturesque village set on the Wild Atlantic Way. A stone’s throw from Galway City, it’s popular with holidaymakers in search of beautiful coastal scenery and small-town charm. Hunt for shells on sandy beaches and stroll along Barna Pier, where you can watch fishing boats cruise around Galway Bay.
Dine at award-winning seafood restaurants and enjoy all specialties like Galway Bay oysters. You’ll also see plenty of traditional Irish dishes on menus, including favourites like “boxty” potato pancakes and “coddle” stew loaded with sausages, bacon and onions. Wash it all down with a pint of creamy Guinness.
The quaint streets of Barna are dotted with boutiques, galleries and craft stores. Shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and enjoy tea and cake at a cosy café. You’ll also find water sports outfitters where you can rent paddle boards, kayaks and windsurfing gear.
Barna is a gateway to the rugged landscapes of Connemara. Visit charismatic fishing villages like Roundstone and explore Connemara National Park, where you can summit quartzite peaks and spot a herd of wild ponies.
Getting there
Barna is on the Wild Atlantic Way in County Galway, a 15-minute drive from Galway City. The town is compact and easy to get around on foot, while renting a car allows you to explore the surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Galway Airport is a 30-minute drive away.