The Hawthorn by Galway Bay ushers in a new era of hospitality on Ireland’s famed west coast

A landmark new hotel on the Wild Atlantic Way has been officially unveiled, marking a significant moment for hospitality in the west of Ireland and realising a long-held vision to create a world-class golf destination overlooking Galway Bay.

The Hawthorn by Galway Bay - a member of Leading Hotels of the World - has become the first new five-star hotel to open in Galway in more than two decades, bringing together championship golf, immersive wellness and destination-led dining in one of the most ambitious developments ever undertaken in the region.

Developed by owners Connacht Hospitality Group as part of a wider €60 million investment, the opening represents the fulfilment of Ryder Cup legend Christy O’Connor Jnr’s ambition to establish the site as a globally recognised golf destination. The Galway-born former European Tour player originally designed the venue’s course, which opened in 1993 and remains central to the identity of the resort today.

Set along the Wild Atlantic Way, The Hawthorn occupies a privileged position within Ireland’s renowned golf corridor, offering international visitors a great option between the celebrated links of the south-west and the rugged championship courses of the north-west.

The hotel features 114 guest rooms, including 47 junior suites and 17 penthouse suites, each designed to reflect a contemporary expression of Irish luxury. Dining is led by The Skylark, a signature live-fire restaurant celebrating premium Irish produce, while The Oystercatcher Bar introduces a Japanese-inspired menu alongside panoramic views across the championship course and Galway Bay.

At the heart of the hotel is The Spa at The Hawthorn, an immersive wellness sanctuary centred on restoration and balance. Guests are invited to experience bespoke contrast therapy, holistic treatments and carefully designed relaxation spaces, alongside outdoor bathing rituals that draw a direct connection to the surrounding coastal landscape.

A series of intimate, experience-led spaces further define the guest offering, including the Chocolate Nest chocolatier, a dedicated Whiskey Room and a Wine Cellar designed for curated tastings and private events.

General manager John Keating said: “The Hawthorn by Galway Bay represents a defining moment for hospitality in the west of Ireland. Every detail has been carefully considered to create something that feels both distinctive and deeply connected to Galway and its landscape.

“There has been a real sense of anticipation ahead of opening, and it is a proud moment for the entire team to now welcome guests to experience it for the first time.”

Alongside the hotel launch, significant investment has been made into the championship golf course, including a comprehensive bunker redevelopment project, ensuring the on-course experience matches the ambition of the wider destination.

The opening of The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, alongside the enhanced par-72 golf course, positions the property as a new benchmark for luxury travel in Ireland and a significant addition to the country’s global golf offering.

To discover more about The Hawthorn by Galway Bay and to book, visit: www.thehawthornhotel.ie

ENDS

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Press release written and distributed on behalf of The Hawthorn by Galway Bay by Azalea.

For images or further information, please contact account manager David Owen via email at david.owen@theazaleagroup.com

About The Hawthorn by Galway Bay

Opening in June 2026, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is a five-star luxury hotel on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, just outside Galway city. Featuring 114 guest rooms, a signature restaurant, spa, championship golf course and bar overlooking Galway Bay, the hotel combines elegant modern design with timeless Irish hospitality.

Set on the Wild Atlantic Way between the celebrated links of Ireland’s south-west and the rugged championship courses of the north-west, The Hawthorn provides a strategic gateway within the country’s famed golf corridor, offering international visitors a compelling golf course and new base from which to experience the Wild Atlantic Way.

About Golf at The Hawthorn

Golf at The Hawthorn – previously known as Galway Bay Golf – was designed by Ryder Cup legend and Galway-born Christy O’Connor Jnr and opened for play in 1993.

A par-72 championship course that stretches more than 7,300 yards from the back tees, iconic hawthorn trees will leave golfers in no doubt as to the prevailing wind, which travels uninterrupted across the Atlantic – ensuring a memorable challenge for golfers of all levels.

In 1999, the venue hosted the West of Ireland Golf Classic, won by Costantino Rocca, with Padraig Harrington finishing runner-up. That event was a key part of qualification for the 1999 Ryder Cup and featured a field that included Justin Rose, Ian Poulter and Paul McGinley.