Situated on a quiet corner of Galway Bay lies the picturesque village of Ballyvaughan. Originally better known as a fishing village it has in recent years developed into a tourist centre. With the Burren lying a few miles south of the village, Doolin lying to the east and Galway to the north east, Ballyvaughan with its lively pubs and up market restaurants provides an ideal base for exploring these areas. Although the nearby Burren region has plenty to offer the incoming visitor, Ballyvaughan is not without its own attractions. Lying just three miles outside of the village en route to Lisdoonvarna is the first of the two sixteenth century castles to be found in the area – Newtown Castle. Recently restored, the castle provides an interesting guided tour and should prove a worthwhile experience relating information on the history, botany and folklore of the area. On the western side of the village about 6km out, lies the second sixteenth century castle – Gleninagh Castle. This castle was originally built by the O’Lochlain clan who were the chieftains in this region and who occupied it until 1840. This castle is well worth a visit as one will discover a holy well and medieval church lying in front of the castle. There is also evidence of prehistoric activity with a “fulacht fiadh” (cooking place) dating back to the Bronze Age to be found in the area.