'Most picturesque' Irish village just an hour from Galway offers stunning scenery and amazing food

The "most picturesque" village in Ireland can be a hotly debated topic but most locals are in agreement that Roundstone, located just over an hour from Galway City , is up there on the list.

The tiny fishing village, which is part of the iconic coastal lands of Connemara, has previously been voted as the country's most picturesque and it's become a renowned spot among tourists since the creation of the Wild Atlantic Way driving route.

Roundstone lies on the western arm of Bertraghboy Bay, about a 48-mile drive north-west of Galway city. Overlooking the Atlantic at the foot of Errisbeg Mountain, the quaint holiday resort is popular among artists and naturalists due to its rare wildflowers and gorgeous scenery .

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Fishing, which sustained the village for centuries, is still an important part of its economy and every size boat from traditional currachs to trawlers can be seen in its harbour on any given day.

Boats can be chartered from the village for those wishing to experience fishing in the area or you can visit Inishnee Island. For those wanting to stay closer to land, the area is perhaps best known amongst Co Galway residents for its beaches. Gurteen Beach and its crystal clear water is within two miles of the village, while Dog's Bay, a smaller but equally beautiful beach, is also easily accessible.

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After a swim or hike up Errisbeg, make sure to pop into the village's traditional craft centers, Roundstone Ceramics and Roundstone Musical Instruments. You can ask locals about the history of the village, which was founded in the 1820s by Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo and originally settled by Scottish fishermen.

You can even brush up on a cupla focal during your trip. Many locals speak fluent Irish and many of the signs in the area are written as Gaeilge. Connemara is home to one of the last pockets of native Irish speakers in Ireland and the language is still spoken daily in large parts of the area. Roundstone actually derives its name from the Irish 'Cloch Na Ron' or Rock of the Seals.

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Spiddal, or An Spideal, is a small town in between Roundstone and Galway city and is another must-stop for anyone wishing to hear some Irish. An Spideal is one of the largest Irish-speaking settlements in Co Galway and the setting for a famous Irish soap opera, Ros na Run.

Connemara National Park is also located nearby, which is perfect for a stroll or more demanding hike, as is the famous town of Clifden, which is also part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Before heading back that way, however, make sure to stop into The Shamrock Bar or O'Dowd's Bar and Restaurant in Roundstone for some home-cooked food.

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Local fishermen catch everything from lobster and crab to cod and mackerel off the coast, so a fish dish is usually recommended. Don't forget a pint or Irish coffee to finish off - O'Dowd's, which has a small turf fireplace, is thought to be the oldest pub in Connemara and King's Bar is popular amongst locals.

Roundstone is accessible by bus via Bus Eireann's Route 419/421 or by car along the N59 west from Galway and the R341 south. If staying over, there are self-catering options as well as the family-run Roundstone House Hotel, Eldon's Hotel Roundstone, and a number of BandBs. For more see roundstonevillage.ie.

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