If you’re wondering what to do in Oughterard, you’re in the right place. This small, characterful town in County Galway sits on the edge of Lough Corrib and acts as the western gateway to Connemara. It’s a proper, local Irish town where life moves at an easy pace, the pubs are lively without being loud, and every direction seems to lead towards a lake, forest, or mountain.
Oughterard is known for its outdoor adventures, fishing heritage, and strong sense of community. It’s close enough to Galway City for a day trip (just a 30-minute drive on the N59), but far enough to feel worlds away from the bustle.
Historical and cultural sites in the village
For a small town, Oughterard has its fair share of stories. Start with St Paul’s Oughterard, a pretty Church of Ireland building dating back to the 19th century. Its quiet graveyard and simple architecture reflect a slice of village history that’s easy to overlook but worth exploring.
Just outside the town, Aughnanure Castle is a must-visit. Built by the O’Flaherty clan in the 1500s, this well-preserved tower house stands over the Drimneen River. You can climb through its narrow staircases and take in views of the wooded landscape that hasn’t changed much in centuries.
If you’re heading further into Connemara afterwards, you might enjoy visiting Kylemore Abbey or Clifden Castle — both about an hour’s drive away and covered in our Kylemore Abbey guide and Clifden Castle blog.
Outdoor activities and water sports
If you love the outdoors, Oughterard is an ideal base. Here are just some of the many outdoor activities you can take part in once you’re here.
Fishing
Anglers come from across Ireland for Lough Corrib’s famous wild brown trout. Salmon are also commonly caught here. You can hire boats locally or join guided trips that take you deep into the lake’s island-dotted waters.
Water sports
For a more active day, try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. The calm stretches near Oughterard Pier are perfect for beginners, while the wider lake gives experienced paddlers plenty of space. If you’re interested in more kayaking routes across Connemara, there’s a full guide on Kayaking in Connemara.
Hiking
Hiking is another highlight. The Western Way trail passes nearby, winding through forests, moorland, and past hidden lakes. It’s a scenic route that offers views back over Galway Bay and north towards the Twelve Bens, which you can read more about in our Twelve Bens blog.
And for those who prefer shorter walks, the Newvillage Forest Loop is a local favourite — around 7km of peaceful, tree-lined paths with views over Lough Corrib.
Curraghduff Alpaca Farm
And if you’re looking for something a bit different, visit Curraghduff Alpaca Farm, about 15 minutes from the village. It’s a peaceful, family-run spot where you can walk with friendly alpacas through rolling hills and enjoy panoramic views across the lake.
Restaurants and local cuisine
For its size, Oughterard has an excellent food scene, with local spots that cater to both casual and special meals.
- Powers Thatch Bar & Restaurant – A proper Irish pub atmosphere with hearty food and live music some evenings. Expect seafood chowder, mussels, freshly-made brown bread, and plenty of local charm.
- Connemara Greenway Café & Restaurant – Known for locally-sourced, homemade food, this is the perfect place for any meal of the day. Think hearty lasagna, fresh seafood, and delicious desserts like apple pie. Opening hours vary between summer and winter so it’s best to book in advance.
- Faherty’s Bar – A traditional Irish pub with a warm and friendly atmosphere. You’ll be served a perfect pint of Guinness and a delicious toasty while you watch sports on one of their four big screens. What more could you ask for?
If you’re looking for Oughterard restaurants that make use of the best local produce, these are reliable choices. And if you’re visiting in summer, it’s worth booking ahead. The dining spots in this part of Oughterard Galway are limited and can fill up quickly on sunny evenings.
Golf and other recreational activities
Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Oughterard Golf Club is one of the finest parkland courses in the west of Ireland. It’s an 18-hole course surrounded by mature trees, lakes, and mountain views — the kind of place where even a poor round feels worth it for the scenery alone. Visitors are welcome year-round, and equipment hire is available.
Beyond golf, the town’s proximity to the lake and forest makes it a great area for cycling, horse riding, or relaxed scenic drives through Connemara. If you’d like to combine a day outdoors with a taste of the local craft scene, stop by the Connemara Greenway route, which runs close to Oughterard and is perfect for leisurely cycling.
You could also head out on a day trip — Roundstone Village, Ballyconneely, and Letterfrack are all within reach and each has its own character. For more inspiration, have a look at our guide to Things to do in Clifden, another charming Connemara town worth a visit.
Getting around and practical advice
Oughterard is about a 30-minute drive from Galway City, sitting right on the N59 route that leads deep into Connemara. Most visitors find having a car the easiest way to explore, but buses also connect Oughterard with Galway several times a day.
Here are a few practical tips for visiting:
- Parking: Free street parking is easy to find around the village centre and the town’s car park opposite Supermac’s is also free.
- Shops & services: There’s a supermarket, pharmacy, butcher, and post office in town — handy for self-catering stays.
- Weather: Expect changing skies. Bring waterproofs even in summer, and a warm layer for evenings by the lake.
- Local events: Keep an eye out for community festivals, markets, and live music at local pubs, especially in summer.
- Walking routes: Ask the locals for directions. You’ll get better advice than any map app can offer.
If you plan to explore further afield, Killary Harbour and Sky Road are both within driving distance and make great day trips.
Conclusion and invitation to discover Oughterard
So, if you’re still wondering what to do in Oughterard, the answer is simple: a bit of everything. Walk by the lake, enjoy a pint in a traditional pub, play a round of golf, or just take in the quiet rhythm of village life.
When you’re ready to plan your visit, Connemara Holiday Lettings has a wide range of accommodation to choose from, including lakeside cottages, townhouses, and countryside escapes. Each property gives you the space to explore at your own pace and feel right at home in Connemara.
Find your perfect place to stay at Connemara Holiday Lettings and start planning your Oughterard getaway today.