Voted the world’s friendliest city last year*, Galway has become one of the most sought after locations for corporate meetings and events. Whether you’re looking to accommodate 20 or 200 attendees, the cultural heart of Ireland is home to some hidden gems and has proved its worth as one of the best when it comes to corporate venues, conference centres, hotels, restaurants and private party rooms. So be it an annual sales meeting or a team building trip, these unique venues (in the city and around the county) are worth checking out.

Brigit’s Garden
Regarded as one of the most breathtaking gardens in Ireland, Brigit’s Garden spans across 11 acres of native woodland and wildflower meadows. With nature trails, ogham trees, ring forts and sundial calendars, this venue takes you on a magical journey of Celtic heritage and mythology.  Their many different venue rooms can accommodate 35 to 120 guests, making it perfect for a tranquil event, surrounded by beauty, nature and heritage. Time to get your zen on!

The G Hotel
The five star G Hotel is a homage to modern, contemporary design, fusing cool modernity with stylish comfort. The hotel brings grandeur to Galway City with striking public areas designed by Philip Treacy, bringing Hollywood style glamour to Ireland. With 6 separate occasion suites, it has become a popular venue for corporate meetings. And as if that wasn’t enough, there’s also an event suite to accommodate up to 100 guests as well as an extra 4 small meeting rooms. With a cocktail bar adorned with thousands of Swarovski crystals, the G Hotel is a venue of style and sophistication.

Lough Cutra
Ireland is home to many old castles, but none as stunning as Lough Cura just outside Galway City and conveniently located to Shannon Airport. The privately situated 18th century stone landmark holds a glorious position in the centre of the 1,600 acre Castle Estate. Surrounded by fields of green, mature woodlands and parkland scenery, the castle overlooks the shores of Lough Cultra, a private lake also part of the estate. There are many different function rooms to accommodate 40 – 200 guests, with plenty of cottages for guests to relax in splendor before visiting the lavish Saloon and Dining Hall.

Róisín Dubh
Since opening its doors in 1993, the Róisín Dubh has been universally regarded as one of the West of Ireland’s finest music venues. The well-established heart and soul of the county is undoubtedly one of the best music and comedy venues in Ireland. With the great atmosphere, wonderful staff and passion for entertainment, this live music venue (and bar) has welcomed acts like Ed Sheeran, Imelda May and Kevin Bridges. Holding up to 280 people, this Irish gem is the most notorious spot for the best of craic. So why not treat staff to a team building night in one of the highly regarded music venues in Ireland?

Glenlo Abbey
This gothic, 18th Century Abbey offers guests a unique and graceful dining or event experience. Located just 3km from the City, Glenlo Abbey provides 5-star accommodation, a 140-acre lakeside gold course, a 12-bay diving range and of course, the dramatic West landscape. With the abbey’s impressive history and the newly refurbished conference suites to cater for up to 220 guests, it’s the perfect venue and serene setting on the shores of Lough Corrib. From fishing to gold to walking trails, the large estate is ideal for training or team building.

Ballynahinch Castle
Known as one of the finest castles in Ireland, Ballynahinch is set on a private 450 acre estate of rivers, woodland and walks in the heart of the Gaeltacht, Connemara. This authentic 18th Century construction overlooks its famous salmon fishery, Owenmore River and the beautiful 12 Bens Mountain Range. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, the castle is the perfect retreat for relaxation or some of their many activities—hiking, fishing, tennis, biking or simply embracing the tranquillity of the grounds. There are numerous function rooms dedicated to corporate meetings and 48 guest rooms, so it’s the perfect location right in the root of Ireland.

* Travel & leisure magazine, US.