Monivea Woods: A Tranquil Escape in County Galway

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Monivea Woods in County Galway, offering peaceful trails and historical landmarks.

4.8

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Monivea Woods, located in County Galway, offers a serene escape into nature with its lush woodlands and historical remnants. Once part of the Ffrench estate, these woods feature looped trails, a striking mausoleum, and a preserved ice house, providing a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. It's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and family outings.

A brief summary to Monivea Woods

Monivea Demesne, Co. Galway, IE
Visit website

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking in the woods, as some sections may be muddy, especially after rain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no toilet facilities available within Monivea Woods.
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times and clean up after them to respect the wildlife and natural environment.

Getting There

Walking

If you are in Monivea village, reaching Monivea Woods is a straightforward 15-minute walk. Head east on the main road (R364), following the signs for Monivea Demesne. The entrance to the woods will be easily visible, with a parking area available. There are no entrance fees or mandatory access costs.
Public Transport

To reach Monivea Woods via public transport from Galway City, take Bus Éireann route 425A towards Mountbellew. The bus stops in Monivea village, a short walk from the woods. From the bus stop, follow the signs to Monivea Demesne. The entrance to the woods is about a 5-minute walk. A single fare from Galway to Monivea costs approximately €5-€8. Check the Bus Éireann website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Driving

If driving from Galway City, take the N6 towards Dublin and then the M6. Exit at Junction 16 for Loughrea/Athenry and follow the R348 to Athenry. From Athenry, take the L54 north towards Monivea. The woods are located just outside Monivea village. There is a parking area available at the entrance to Monivea Woods. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

Discover more about Monivea Woods

Monivea Woods, managed by Coillte, is a captivating woodland area near Monivea village in County Galway, Ireland. This expansive forest, once part of the Ffrench estate, offers visitors a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful setting. The woods are renowned for their majestic trees, some over 200 years old, creating a tranquil canopy perfect for leisurely walks and contemplation. The woods have a rich history, originally belonging to the O'Kelly Clan before being acquired by the Ffrench family in the 17th century. The Ffrench family significantly improved the land, planting trees and enhancing the area. Today, the woods are home to diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, squirrels, rabbits, and various bird species. Visitors can explore two main looped trails, one 1.5 km and the other 1.3 km long, suitable for all ages and abilities. These well-marked trails wind through the forest, offering lovely views of the woodland and surrounding countryside. A highlight is the Ffrench family mausoleum, a Gothic-style building with stained glass windows and a marble chapel. The mausoleum holds the remains of Robert Ffrench and his daughter Catherine, who bequeathed the estate to the public with the condition that the trees never be cut down. Another notable feature is the 17th-century ice house, a circular stone structure used for food storage before refrigeration. Monivea Woods provides a serene environment for casual strolls, with well-maintained paths that are generally safe and easy to navigate. The woods are an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers seeking a breath of fresh air and a moment of tranquility.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Monivea Woods

0.0 km

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Monivea Woods in County Galway, offering peaceful trails and historical landmarks.

Garbally Castle

5.5 km

Discover the enchanting Garbally Castle in County Galway, a hidden gem rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Athenry Heritage Centre

8.9 km

Explore Athenry Heritage Centre, where Ireland's rich history comes alive through interactive exhibits and captivating storytelling.

Woodlawn House

15.1 km

Explore the enchanting Woodlawn House in Co. Galway, a stunning historical landmark surrounded by lush gardens and rich heritage.

Tobar a Chailigh Mhéara (Holy Well)

19.0 km

Explore Tobar a Chailigh Mhéra, a serene Holy Well in County Galway, where nature meets spiritual heritage in a picturesque Irish landscape.

Oranmore Castle

19.6 km

Explore the historical beauty of Oranmore Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in County Galway surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich Irish heritage.

Knockma peak Knights Tower (in Ruins)

21.2 km

Explore the historic Knights Tower ruins on Knockma Peak, a serene escape in Co. Galway with breathtaking views and rich Irish folklore.

Elf Town Galway

21.5 km

Experience the enchanting world of Elf Town Galway, a magical event venue at the Galway Racecourse, perfect for families and fantasy lovers.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours

23.0 km

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way with guided tours showcasing Ireland's stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Castlegar Castle

23.0 km

Explore the historic ruins of Castlegar Castle in County Galway, a 16th-century Norman tower house with a captivating past.

Tyrone House

23.3 km

Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Tyrone House in Co. Galway, a must-visit landmark for every traveler in Ireland.

IDA Ireland

24.0 km

Discover IDA Ireland in Galway, where investment services meet innovation, shaping the future of Ireland's economic landscape.

Visit Galway

25.3 km

Explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Galway, a must-visit destination on Ireland's west coast.

Gort Na Coiribe

25.3 km

Discover the charm of Galway with a stay at Gort Na Coiribe, your perfect self-catering accommodation in Ireland.

Galway Walks - Galway City Walking Tours

25.7 km

Explore Galway City like never before with guided walking tours that unveil its rich history and vibrant culture.

Galway Walks - Galway City Walking Tours

Unmissable attractions to see

Castle Ellen House

6.5 km

Discover the charm of Castle Ellen House in County Galway, a beautifully restored 19th-century estate with rich history and tranquil gardens.

Ballyglunin Station

8.9 km

Discover a beautifully restored 19th-century Irish railway station, famed for its role in 'The Quiet Man'. A heritage gem in County Galway.

Athenry Dominican Priory

9.0 km

Explore the historic ruins of Athenry Dominican Priory, a medieval monastery offering a glimpse into Ireland's rich past in County Galway.

derrymacloughna castle

9.1 km

Discover the charm of Derrymacloughna Castle in Co. Galway, where history meets breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable experience.

Brazilian Irish Tours

11.7 km

Experience the vibrant fusion of Brazilian and Irish cultures in the heart of County Galway. Engaging tours, music, dance, and culinary delights await!

Lackagh Museum & Heritage Centre

12.8 km

Discover rural Irish heritage at Lackagh Museum: a charming cottage filled with history, artifacts, and stories of a bygone era near Galway.

Claregalway Museum & Forge

15.3 km

Discover rural Irish life at Claregalway Museum & Forge, where history comes alive through restored artifacts and captivating exhibits.

Turoe Pet Farm

16.3 km

Discover a delightful escape at Turoe Pet Farm, where fun, education, and animal encounters await for an unforgettable family experience in County Galway.

Claregalway Castle

16.4 km

Explore Claregalway Castle, a breathtaking historical landmark in County Galway, where medieval architecture meets captivating Irish heritage.

Claregalway Friary

16.6 km

Explore a medieval Franciscan abbey in County Galway: architecture, history, and tranquil ruins await at Claregalway Friary.

Vintage water pump

16.6 km

Step back in time at this charming vintage water pump in Claregalway, a nostalgic reminder of Ireland's rural past and community spirit.

Mill Museum

18.8 km

Explore the Tuam Mill Museum, the only preserved corn mill in the West of Ireland, showcasing centuries of milling history and rural life.

Kilconnell Franciscan Friary

20.3 km

Explore the medieval Kilconnell Franciscan Friary in County Galway, with its impressive architecture, ornate tombs, and tranquil atmosphere.

Coast Road

20.4 km

Experience the breathtaking views and charming villages along the Coast Road in Co. Galway, a highlight of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Woodville House Walled Garden

21.0 km

Discover the enchanting Woodville House Walled Garden in County Galway, a lush retreat filled with vibrant flora and serene pathways.

Essential places to dine

Lignum

18.2 km

Discover Lignum: A premier dining destination in Co. Galway offering innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.

Raviolo Verde

19.4 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Raviolo Verde in Oranmore - where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable dining experience.

McHughs Traditional Pub & Restaurant

20.2 km

Discover the heart of Ireland at McHughs Traditional Pub & Restaurant – where delicious food meets warm hospitality in Castlegar Village.

Bethlehem Galway

22.1 km

Experience the essence of Italy at Bethlehem Galway, where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.

WhatsForDinner

22.5 km

Explore diverse flavors at WhatsForDinner in Galway—your go-to spot for Chinese, Indian, pizza takeout and more!

The Galway Plate Restaurant

22.9 km

Discover family-friendly dining at The Galway Plate Restaurant in Galway, offering delicious breakfasts and warm hospitality in an inviting atmosphere.

GEO Restaurant at the g Hotel & Spa

24.4 km

Discover culinary excellence at GEO Restaurant, where local flavors meet contemporary elegance in Galway's premier dining destination.

Scotty's Burgers and Wings

25.4 km

Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and crispy wings at Scotty's Burgers and Wings in Galway - the ultimate destination for American comfort food.

Elephant & Castle Galway

25.5 km

Experience the best of Irish cuisine at Elephant & Castle Galway with mouthwatering dishes and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for all diners.

Sophie's Rooftop Galway

25.5 km

Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine at Sophie's Rooftop in Galway - where every meal is a celebration.

The Western Bar & Restaurant

25.6 km

Discover authentic Irish flavors at The Western Bar & Restaurant in Galway—where tradition meets contemporary dining in a welcoming atmosphere.

The Park House Restaurant

25.6 km

Experience the essence of Irish cuisine at The Park House Restaurant in Galway, where local ingredients meet exceptional service.

Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Sq, Galway)

25.7 km

Experience organic coffee and delightful breakfasts at Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co in the heart of Galway's Eyre Square.

Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Sq, Galway)

Alma Restaurant

25.7 km

Experience culinary excellence at Alma Restaurant in Galway - where local flavors meet international cuisine for an unforgettable dining journey.

Gatto Rosso

25.8 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Gatto Rosso in Galway - where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Fancy Nest

16.9 km

Explore The Fancy Nest in Claregalway: Your destination for unique home goods and charming gifts that capture the spirit of Ireland.

Orantown Centre

19.0 km

Explore Orantown Centre in Oranmore: Your premier shopping destination for fashion, dining, and entertainment in Co. Galway.

Ivory Lane Boutique

19.0 km

Explore Ivory Lane Boutique in Oranmore, Co. Galway - a haven for stylish women's clothing, accessories, and unique fashion finds.

Clarenbridge Antiques

20.1 km

Explore Clarenbridge Antiques in County Galway, where history comes alive with unique vintage treasures and charming stories.

Mise Tusa

20.1 km

Discover unique Irish fashion at Mise Tusa in Clarinbridge, offering a curated selection of clothing and accessories that reflect local artistry.

Colourful Things Gift Shop

Explore Dealz in Galway for unbeatable prices on clothing, household goods, and everyday essentials, all in one convenient location.

Experience the essence of Galway at The Dáil Bar, a gastropub blending traditional flavors with modern culinary creativity.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Monivea Woods with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Monivea Woods: A Tranquil Escape in County Galway

A brief summary to Monivea Woods

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Monivea Woods

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Monivea Woods

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Monivea Woods

Garbally Castle

Athenry Heritage Centre

Woodlawn House

Tobar a Chailigh Mhéara (Holy Well)

Oranmore Castle

Knockma peak Knights Tower (in Ruins)

Elf Town Galway

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours

Castlegar Castle

Tyrone House

IDA Ireland

Visit Galway

Gort Na Coiribe

Galway Walks - Galway City Walking Tours

Unmissable attractions to see

Castle Ellen House

Ballyglunin Station

Athenry Dominican Priory

derrymacloughna castle

Brazilian Irish Tours

Lackagh Museum & Heritage Centre

Claregalway Museum & Forge

Turoe Pet Farm

Claregalway Castle

Claregalway Friary

Vintage water pump

Mill Museum

Kilconnell Franciscan Friary

Coast Road

Woodville House Walled Garden

Essential places to dine

Lignum

Raviolo Verde

McHughs Traditional Pub & Restaurant

Bethlehem Galway

WhatsForDinner

The Galway Plate Restaurant

GEO Restaurant at the g Hotel & Spa

Scotty's Burgers and Wings

Elephant & Castle Galway

Sophie's Rooftop Galway

The Western Bar & Restaurant

The Park House Restaurant

Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Sq, Galway)

Alma Restaurant

Gatto Rosso

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Fancy Nest

Orantown Centre

Ivory Lane Boutique

Clarenbridge Antiques

Mise Tusa

Colourful Things Gift Shop

Briarhill Shopping Centre

Galway Irish Crystal

Home Store + More

Knitwits & Crafty Stitchers

Ashford Collection

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Flying Tiger

Galway Shopping Centre

Dealz

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Harry's Bar

Crowes Bar & Beer Garden

Hyde Bar Galway