After stiff competition from Ireland’s capital, Galway was last year chosen as the official European Capital of Culture for 2020. Hitting the headlines for all the right reasons, this diverse and truly welcoming city is THE place to be.
Situated along the Wild Atlantic Way, the county boasts a plethora of stunning scenery and breath-taking viewpoints. The city’s bohemian feel is simply electric, with a labyrinth of cobbled streets, traditional pubs, colourful shop facades and cultural arts aplenty. It’s easy to see why its buzzing atmosphere is contagious.
Firmly in the spotlight, we couldn’t think of a better location to tie the knot over the next few years. Here’s our ultimate go-to venue guide…
the g Hotel & Spa
A unique drop of luxury by the coast, the g hotel & Spa is equally chic and elegant. A perfect choice for the contemporary couple who enjoys a stylish five-star setting, the hotel’s show-stopping interiors are sure to impress your guests. Designed by Philip Treacy, milliner to royalty and Hollywood stars, the exquisite Grand Salon features over 300 twinkling mirrored balls and Swarovski crystals. What a knock-out backdrop for your drinks reception on arrival!
The plush ballroom is a sight to behold, boasting a 1920s art deco navy, white and silver colour scheme. A mirage of antique and modern mirrors complete the glamorous air of sophistication in the g Suite.
We know this venue will give you a serious case of the ‘heart eye emoji’ upon seeing it for the first time!
Glenlo Abbey Hotel
Full of surprises, Glenlo Abbey is a heavenly escape with the wildness of Connemara on its doorstep. From the moment you drive through the magnificent cast iron gates, you will be captivated by the beauty of this enchanting lakeside estate overlooking Lough Corrib.
The hotel features its very own 18th Century Abbey which is a beautiful venue for an intimate civil ceremony or wedding banquet. While the Corrib Suite boasts panoramic views of the estate and can cater for up to 160 of your family and friends.
A photographer’s dream, the Pullman Restaurant, which was once part of the original Orient Express, adds an air of romantic whimsy to this elegant five-star wedding venue.
Shearwater Hotel & Spa
We all know that weddings along the west are a family affair! The Shearwater Hotel & Spa is one wedding venue where you won’t be stressing about those dreaded numbers on your guest list. With a capacity for up to 450 people, organising your seating plan will be a breeze.
Weddings are this venue’s speciality and the dedicated Team are experts at planning larger celebrations, so you can relax in the knowledge that your special day is in the best of hands. Your personal Wedding Consultants understand the time and effort required to make this the happiest day of your lives, and they are committed to making your dreams a reality.
The plush ballroom features wall-to-wall glass backdrop which opens out on to an exclusive drinks terrace – the perfect spot to toast your new marriage and mingle with your nearest and dearest.
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
The Piano Lounge at the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa is giving us all the feels! A charming private space, your guests will be escorted here on arrival to enjoy a luxurious drinks reception. Only the best will do in this magical haven, with on-trend cocktails being the call of the day.
A mere 20 minutes from Galway City, this venue offers the best of both worlds. Sitting in the quaint town of Loughrea, its interiors are chic and contemporary – not to mention the jaw-dropping lakeside views! Couples can take advantage of the unique Rooftop Garden for an intimate blessing or humanist ceremony with up to 60 guests.
Recently crowned winner for Top Rated Wedding Venue in Connaught 2016 by WeddingDates, the Lough Rea Hotel’s Real Wedding feature was also the most read article on our blog last year. You can see Mark and Neil’s wedding here.
To arrange an appointment with Karen please Call 091 880088 or email events@loughreahotelandspa.com
Salthill Hotel
True romance by the sea. The prime location along Salthill Promenade is the shining star of this venue. Imagine how gorgeous your wedding pictures will be against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean – swoon!
Boasting all the charms of the Wild Atlantic Way, The Promenade Suite features grand windows which fill the room with glorious natural lighting. While up to 500 friends and family can party into the evening underneath the glistening chandeliers of The Rockbarton Suite. Renowned for outstanding food and service, packages start from €60 per person.
Clayton Hotel Galway
A warm welcome from friendly staff and a stellar record for attention to detail are just two of the many fantastic qualities we love about the award-winning Clayton Hotel Galway. The staff at the Clayton truly understand just how important your wedding day is and will go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure everything runs seamlessly.
You can’t put a price on peace of mind, especially during the stressful run-up to your big day. Wedding & Events Manager, Karina Duffy, proudly holds an array of awards under her belt, including; Wedding Venue Coordinator 2015 and most recently for 2017. She will be delighted to meet with you and offer her expert advice throughout your wedding planning journey.
You can email Karina on kduffy@claytonhotels.com to organise a meeting to begin planning your perfect day.
Raheen Woods Hotel
When we saw these new snaps of Raheen Woods Hotel, our hearts skipped a beat.
Hot on the heels of the recent jiving craze with this shoot, we love how versatile weddings at this venue can be. Proof that if you use your imagination with a blank canvas, your theme can totally transform a ballroom. Whether you are inspired by rustic country romance or old world vintage elegance, this venue is nailing it.
Let nature inspire the moment at the spectacular De Burgo Wedding Suite which leads directly on to opulently planted gardens with a cascading waterfall. Pure magic! For more details on weddings at Raheen Woods Hotel, you can contact Frances or Lester on +353 (0)91-875888.
