Guest Directory Dell Allen You have arrived ... On behalf of all of the team at The Twelve it is a great pleasure to welcome you to our Hotel at the Crossroads.... where history and tradition meet luxury and style. The Twelve Hotel is more than a place to eat and sleep. We open our doors to hearts and minds - especially those who enjoy culture, fun, comforts and great culinary experiences. When we first started on the project, we fell in love with the village of Bearna and the history 'The Twelve Pins' had amassed dating all the way back to the 1800's. A perfect starting point, we thought, to create a hotel at the crossroads, where history and tradition meet luxury and style. Hence, the brief: 'Though the exterior will reflect the strength and character of its Irish history, the interior will be of a refined elegance, a stylish sense of comfort and design pervading throughout.' We then agreed that a spin on the name of the hotel was necessary so as to signify its evolution. °Let's take the hotel out of the hotel° we proclaimed. And so The Twelve dream began. With a team of amazing people, a considerable budget for the thoughtful project (including the building of a terrific wine collection), and an overdose of passion, enthusiasm and hard work - we spent 2 years creating an environment that allows for new ways of seeing things, caters to many diverse breeds of guest (and dog) and places culinary delights at the top of the menu. It's a tough gig we aim to pull off - there are numerous contradictions within the project. For example, The Twelve is a place where corporate guests go on a retreat yet it offers the very latest in technological goodies; we cater to families but also attract singles drawn to Galway's nightlife; The Twelve offers pampering and well being mixed with culinary adventures, a place where the healthful coexist with the decadent, where the elderly are rejuvenated and the young feel mature; it's a place where the gaelic speaking locals sip on their beverage of choice; a place where designer furniture shares the spotlight with specially commissioned artworks, video projection screens and a classic lounge bar; a place with economically priced, yet beautiful and intriguing guest rooms and suites; a place where trad music acts coexist with a kick ass restaurant; a place that does not offer the common mini bar but instead a full cocktail wet bar; a place which is the ideal setting for a lavish wedding or a freshly baked soda bread; a place known as a boutique inspired hotel designed for a local neighborhood which welcomes pets! Yes, these are beautiful contradictions indeed. We've always appreciated the places that aim to make you feel at home, the places that aim to inspire and push the boundaries and in so doing are sometimes non conformist. We relate. In essence, we hope you find The Twelve is fun, quirky, elegant, tasteful, luxurious, cheeky, open to ideas, lacking in pretense, where service matters and which is simple, yet complex. We hope you'll enjoy the home that we've created in an urban ruralness. We also hope you stay true to your own passions and dreams. If there is anything we can do to make your stay more enjoyable, please do not hesitate to contact our ‘at your service’ team on ‘12’ who will be more than happy to answer any queries you might have. Kind Regards

Fergus O’ Halloran General Manager Guest Room & Suite Facilities All our luxury hotel guestrooms have the complete set of Twelve ingredients – The best In-room treatments and pampering, super king size beds which remember your shape, moody lighting, iPod docking stations to put you to sleep and wake you up, your favorite DVD box set and serious LCD TV’s, climate control to suit your temperament, direct dial telephones, gourmet nibbles and different drinks, the truly, most exclusive organic toiletries from The West of and of course, internet access you do not have to pay for. Please Enjoy. Should you need assistance with anything, please dial ‘12’.

Room Product Purchase All our in room products are available for individual purchase if so desired, please contact one of our “At your Service” members on ‘12’ to advise them of your intention, and we will have your product brought to you directly. Should any products be absent from your room upon your departure, we will take it that you omitted to mention to the Front Desk on check out that you wished to purchase the products and your credit card will automatically be charged.

Weddings and Special Dinners Whether for your dream boutique style wedding or rewarding your business team, The Twelve offers a variety of menus suitable for your special occasion. Or, we can completely custom- design a menu for you, along with your choice of beverages. Whatever the wedding event, from an intimate family brunch to a sophisticated cocktail buffet to a grand reception banquet, it is your choice. Our Private Dining Ballroom has to be seen, as once you do see it no other venue will suffice. Our team at The Twelve will assist you with an over dose of enthusiasm from planning to execution. Meet at The Twelve From multi media conferences and fashion shows to board room meetings and brain storming days, there is no fresher location. State of the art technologies have been built into lavish surroundings to ensure your next corporate event makes a statement and makes you look more than just good.

In Room Dining Room service is available from 8am to 10pm. A tv snack menu is included in this directory. For more substantial dining you may order from the Pins menu. Just dial ‘12’ and we will be happy to help you with any In Room Dining request. Five euro delivery charge is applied to each in room delivery. TWELVE PHILOSOPHY – BE AND EAT GOOD

What do we mean by good? Good tasting, good suppliers, good for the environment, good for our local economy, good for animals, and good for the farmers both locally and globally. Thus, good for you….

Meet Some of the People on Your Plate

The Twelve is a member of Green Hospitality Ireland and has achieved Gold Medal status for our careful environmental policies. When it comes to what you eat here at The Twelve, much of our ingredients are organic and as local as possible. Worth mentioning are our good friends at Stephen Gould Organic Farms, Marty’s Mussels, James McGough, butcher extraordinaire and Solaris Organic Teas and Herbals. Please ask you server for more information on these local producers.

Our famous coffees are fair trade and most of our breads and pastries are made right here in our own Bakery, hence less carbon miles and fresher!

The Twelve takes the environment and the future of our planet very seriously as a result of this we use an absolute minimum of plastic bottles in the hotel and all of our take out containers, napkins and bags are biodegradable or made from recycled product. All team members are committed to composting and recycling through out the hotel.

Behind the scenes we use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaners that are safer for you and our staff. It’s easy being green. Our green policy is not just towel reuse. We are deeply dedicated to making our business as sustainable as possible.

So, you don’t need to check your values at the door because we share your values.

The Twelve is more than a hotel. It is in essence an ongoing experiment in melding cultural entrepreneurship and urban development.

Social Philosophy

The Twelve is a values driven business which fosters a healthy micro economy in order to support healthy development, small business, cultural work and good times! Your Many Dining Options @ The Twelve

Located within The Twelve, Upstairs on the First Floor, WEST features innovative dishes that highlight the region and the season's best ingredients. WEST has been acclaimed with numerous food and wine accolades and is a restaurant lover’s haven. Everything at WEST restaurant is prepared 'a la minute' and as such allows the Chef to cook to the depths of his soul. Pair this with a passion driven collection of Wines and a friendly relaxed service and you have all the ingredients necessary for a great meal. WEST is also available for exclusive corporate launches and private bookings and the Chef’s table at WEST is Ireland’s hottest private dining option. For more information please contact our service team at 12 “Celebrate Food, Celebrate Wine, Celebrate Life”. Upstairs @ West Opening Times: Wednesday to Saturday -Evening Dinner Served from: 6pm to 10pm. Also open on Bank Holiday Sunday’s. and special occasions. ~ Reservations are necessary on Friday and Saturday nights. You have been warned!

Located on the Ground Floor The hub of Barna Village and a destination in its own right, The Pins is loved by locals and overnight guests alike. In addition to an incredible selection of cocktails, whiskies, cognacs, armagnacs, rums, bourbons, vodkas and countless other fine spirits and beers, you can enjoy great bistro cuisine and breads just out of the oven. The Pins is ideal for families looking to relax, you can surf the net for free, meet the locals, catch a Traditional Irish Music session, experience great jazz and maybe even pick up a bit of Gaeilge. This is the Life... Irish Style The Pins Bar Bistro Opening Times: Cooked Breakfast Served from Mon – Fri: 8.00am -10.30 Sat – Sun: 8 .30am – 11am Please do try to avoid the crunch on the weekends and join us for a more leisurely breakfast before 10am.

The Pins Full Bistro Menu served from Mon – Sun: 12 noon – 10pm Times may change during certain seasons. Please check with reception for exact times. The Pins Bakery and Italian Pizza Shops All breads and pastries are freshly made on site in The Pins Bakery. What you see was flour and water at 5am the same morning. The Pins Bakery is a sensory experience – an experience of delicious aromas, warm freshly baked breads, melt-in-the-mouth confectionery, scrumptious cakes, velvety coffees and other favourites all in an intimate, continental setting that will make you feel like you could be in a Boulangerie in Paris! Make sure to pick up some goodies and gifts for that long trip home.

The Bakery Opening Times: Every day from 9am- 5.30pm THE PINS TV SNACK SELECTION

THE TELLY BASKET FOR 2 14.95 Chicken Wings, Spicy Wedges and Cocktail Sausages with Sour Cream and Sweet Chilli Dip

WEST COAST SEAFOOD CHOWDER 6.20 Salmon, Shrimp, Cod and Smoked Haddock with Pins’ Bakery Brown Bread

FRESHLY PREPARED SOUP of the MOMENT * 5.10 with Pins’ Artisan Bread

THE MEAT PIZZA 12.40 Ham, Bacon, Pepperoni and Chicken with Mozzarella Cheese

THE EXOTIC PIZZA 11.10 Pineapple, Sliced Ham, Spring Onions and Oregano with Mozzarella

LARGE PIZZA DOUGH GARLIC BREAD 5.10 Topped with Mozzarella

CHICKEN SALAD on CIABATTA 8.80 Spiced Chicken, Lettuce and Tomato

FRESH HAND MADE PASTA of the DAY 13.00

DEEP DISH WARM APPLE PIE 5.50 with vanilla ice-cream and whipped chantilly RICH CHOCOLATE BROWNIE 5.50 with good ol’ vanilla ice-cream

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT A DELIVERY CHARGE OF €5 WILL BE ADDED TO YOUR BILL!

TO PLACE AN ORDER JUST DIAL 212 - AVAILABLE NOON TO 9PM TV GUIDE

1. WELCOME TO THE TWELVE 2. RTE1 3. RTE2 4. TV3 5. TG4 6. BBC2 7. BBC1 8. ITV 3 9. MOVIES FOR MEN 10. ITV 11. KIDS 12. UTV 13. CNN 14. BLOOMBERG 15. TRAVEL 16. SKY NEWS 17. IN HOUSE Warm Up or Chill Out

INSTRUCTIONSFORYOURPERSONALCLIMATECONTROL

1 Fan Speed button 2 Operation Mode Button - Press in rotation for the following modes: heat automatic cool fan dry 3 Swing/Air Direction Button 4 Temperature Setup Button 5 On / Off button 6 (Not used) Le Petit Spa Pampering and Treatments

Voya at The Twelve Voya Seaweed Baths began in Sligo in 1912 and live on here today at The Twelve hotel in Barna, Co. Galway. Seaweed baths have been popular for centuries and now we bring their curative effects to you in our range of certified organic seaweed health and beauty products direct from Voya. Relax in the most restful of surroundings, the comfort of your own room, and return to the world feeling revitalised and rejuvenated. Enjoy the Voya spa finesse brought to you at The Twelve. How to Spa at The Twelve Please call our ‘At Your Service’ team on ‘12’ for inquiries and we will be delighted to assist you. Our therapists will call to your room and escort you to Le Petit Spa @ The Twelve. The Journey A full consultation takes place to allow the Voya experience to meet your every need. Laze the time away in a Voya bath; while your room evolves into your spa destination. Emerge renewed to enjoy a signature sorbet. Choose from the menu of bespoke treatments and reach the final destination of rejuvenation & relaxation. No Voya day is complete without harmonising the mind to the body with the unique blends of Voya tea. Advance booking is required. Please consult the full list of treatments. The following are just a sample. Voya Lazy Days Seaweed Bath Envelope yourself with a Fresh Organic seaweed bath. Soak your body in a hot bath of pure seaweed, oozing with natures minerals and tap into natures restful benefits.

Foot-Retreat A coarse sea salt exfoliation from the knees to the feet, to re-charge circulation and refine your skin. A light massage of Seaweed gel to renew those tired legs, while your feet are wrapped in warmth you close your eyes and listen to the sea with therapeutic blends of aroma massaged into the scalp. To finish a deeply relaxing massage of the lower legs. Reviver Massage Full Body reviver massage This organic aroma massage with Swedish elements will combat the effects of tired bodies due to travel, lifestyle or just a need to restart the day. Facial Renewal Experience Our unique approach to skin care begins with a back brushing technique followed by a back massage and facial exfoliation and hydration. To end, there is a treat the result for which speaks for itself.

Products All products are seaweed based and 100% organically certified and available to take home Hotel Information and Local Services Babysitting Service Super Sitters are Galway’s first professional babysitting company that offer a booking service, which guarantees the provision of experienced minders and all sitters come complete with a children’s play pack to keep the kiddies entertained. Babysitting can be arranged by contacting the ‘At Your Service’ team. Just dial 12.

Banks The closest Automatic Teller Machine is located in SuperValu in Barna Village just a three minute walk from here. Should you require additional information please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team. Just dial ‘12’ Business Services Secretarial, telefax, photocopying, typing and email facilities are available at the Front Desk. If you have any other business service requirements, please dial 12 and we will be happy to assist you.

Car Parking Complimentary car parking is provided at the Twelve Hotel. However we cannot accept any responsibility for damage or loss of property whilst on the premises.

Checkout Time Checkout time is 12 noon. If you wish to extend you departure time, please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team. Just dial 12 and we will endeavour to meet your request. Should we be unable to be of assistance, we will gladly store your luggage.

Chemist There are two chemists in Barna to choose from. Barna Pharmacy: 091 590749 Should you require additional information, please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team by dialing ‘12’

Cinema & Theatre For an update on local performances, please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team by dialling ‘12’

Doctor Barna Medical Centre 091 596510 Open Monday to Friday

Do Not Disturb A “Now is not the Time” notice may be placed on your door handle. Room Cleaned A “My Room needs Direction” notice may be placed on you door handle. Rooms are serviced between the hours of 2pm and 5:30pm. Your room can be serviced earlier upon request. Hotel Information and Local Services Dialing From Room to Room Should you wish to call another guest room please drop the “1” from the room number and dial the last three digits of the room. Eg: Room 1221 you dial 221.

Dry Cleaning Should you wish to avail of Dry Cleaning or Laundry Service please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team by dialling ‘12’ A same day service is available from Monday to Friday, providing items are sent out by 9:00am. A complete price list and instructions can be found on the ‘Styling’ card in your writing desk. Electricity Voltage in Ireland is 220/240 V. Should you require any additional information, please dial ‘12’.

Fire For the nearest fire exit to you, please refer to the fire plan on your exterior lobby wall. Upon hearing the continuous alarm you are requested to:  Proceed to the nearest emergency exit /stairs  Close all the doors behind you  Do not stop to collect any belongings  Do not use or wait for any hotel lift as they will be automatically called to the ground floor level and will be immobilized  Do not fight any fires  Evacuate the area via the indicated fire escapes  Proceed to the designated assembly area at the inner courtyard of the hotel where management will conduct a guest and team head count  Do not re-enter the building until instructed by a Fire Officer

Florist We will be happy to organise your floral requirements, whether within the hotel or beyond. Please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team by dialling ‘12’

Alternatively we recommend the following florist:

Flowers by Kay: 091 562426 Hair / Beauty Salons in Bearna Velvet Hair Salon 091 596900 Talking Heads 091 591300 Piorra Beauty Rooms 091 867799 Hospital There are a number of hospitals in Galway City and these are: Galway Bon Secours 091 757711 Galway Merlin Park 091 757631 Galway University Hospital 091 580580 Hotel Information and Local Services Tourist Information There is an information stand located on the ground floor as you exit the lift. The Failte Ireland Tourist information office is located on Forster Street, Galway City. 091 537700 Lost Property Should you have any queries regarding lost property, please dial ‘12’ and we will be happy to help.

Maintenance Should you require assistance or experience maintenance problems, please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team by dialling ‘12’ Newspaper Complimentary Newspapers: The Irish Times and The Irish Independent are available on request. Just dial ‘1 2’. With prior notification we will gladly arrange for other newspapers, which will be charged to your room account. Alternatively, there are newspapers for your perusal in the Pins Postage Should you require postage service, please dial ‘12’.

Safe Deposit There is a personal safe in each guest bedroom. Please note that the hotel is not in a posi- tion to accept liability for the loss of personal belongings. Should you require additional information please contact our ‘At Your Service’ team at ‘12’ Security Please ensure that you bedroom is securely closed on leaving your room.

Shopping Galway has an abundance of shops to choose from, mostly located in the City Centre. There is also a good selection of shops and boutiques in Barna itself as well as a lovely craft village in Spiddal. Should you need specific information on shops, please contact any of our ‘At Your Service’ team members at ‘12’ Taxi Service There is a Free Phone service located at the reception, or please contact us at ‘12’ to pre-book a taxi. We will be glad to assist you in arranging your taxi or Limo Service. Tea & Coffee Tea and Coffee making facilities are available in your room. Should you require replenishment, please dial ‘12’ Religious Services Catholic Mass Barna - Saturday Evening at 7.30pm 091 592173 Sunday Mornings at 10am & 12noon

Galway Cathedral 091 563577 Galway City Saturday Evening at: 6pm Sunday Mornings at: 8.30am 10am 11 .1 5am & 1 2.30am

Church Of Ireland 091 564648 St. Nicholas Church – Sunday Mornings: 8.30am &1 1 .30am Our Guide to things to do and see in Galway Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savored and remembered. The historic ‘City of the Tribes’ dances to a beat uniquely its own. There is a certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly University City, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric medieval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows: , immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging, Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the and Connemara with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital, Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. Overall a delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, and traditional pubs.

Barna strikes the perfect balance, in its location at the gateway to Connemara yet just a stone’s throw from the “City of Tribes”. We love our wonderful location here in Barna, Galway and are proud to present to you our unique and special guest guide. There is just so much to do here that we thought we’d put it all down on paper to help you make the most of your stay at The Twelve. This guide is unique because all of the recommendations have been personally made by the team here at The Twelve. There are definitely a lot of more things to do and explore than we have listed here, so please do not hesitate to drop by reception and we will be more than happy to assist you. Let’s start… with the Top Twelve Things to do during your stay in Galway 1. A daytrip to the Aran Islands

2. Picnic in Eyre Square or at Spanish Arch with a freshly made milkshake from the Milkshake Bar and a sweet or savory crêpe from Café Crêperie in High Street

3. Take a coffee to go and walk along the Corrib River on the canal walkway

4. Park your car in Salthill and rollerblade on the Prom from Salthill to town

5. Visit the Galway City Museum

6. Challenge yourself and test your sport skills at Pure Skills in Knocknacarra

7. Take a river cruise on the Corrib Princess

8. Visit the National Aquarium in Salthill with the kids

9. Enjoy an afternoon at the sandy beaches in Salthill or Silver Strand in Barna

10. The Galway City Farmers Market is on Saturday morning beside St Nicholas’ Church and the Moycullen Farmers Market is on every Friday

11. Visit Brigit’s Garden in Roscahill

12. Dinner in West @ The Twelve – a destination in its own right! On Sunny Days…

The Aran Islands Looking for a fabulous day trip? Go to the Aran Islands – Inis Mor, Inis Meain or Inis Oir and enjoy the outstanding landscape, visit the Dun Aonghasa Fort. The ferry point is only 20 miles from The Twelve Hotel, so it takes around 30 minutes to get there (depending upon traffic). The ferry leaves several times a day, the return ticket costs €25 per adult and a car park is available for €5 per day. The journey to Inis Mor (the biggest island) takes 60 minutes to Kilronan, the principle port and the “capital” of Inis Mor. Once there, you can choose to explore the island by bike (€10 per day per bike), by pony and trap, by mini bus or by foot. Honestly the weather needs to be nice to deeply enjoy the trip - but be careful: you can easily get sunburned when the sun is shining.

The Salthill Summer Perk’s Funfair The Salthill amusement park at Perk’s Funfair (also called Perks Leisureland Funworld) is located in the heart of Salthill. If you get the right weather this is the perfect location to bring your family/kids/boyfriend/girlfriend as it has all the arcade games (bumper cars, hammers, magic mouse, big wheel, etc.). You are directly across from the sandy beach where you can just relax, sunbathe, read a book or skip into the sea for a little swim.

The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare Do you want to see the eight wonder of the world? Then visit the Cliffs of Moher, located just an hour and twenty minutes outside of Galway. See the best of the Atlantic on the edge of the most amazing cliffs in the world. You can also enjoy the view while having a picnic. If you fancy taking home a souvenir there are gift shops located underneath the Cliffs. You haven’t really seen Ireland until you’ve been to the Cliffs of Moher.

www.cliffsofmoher.ie Visitor Centre: 065-7086141

Driving along the Coast Road (R336) Get into your car and drive along Top Gear’s top 70 world driving routes which starts right here at The Twelve. You find amazing beaches along the way like the Coral Beach in Carroe. You should also stop in the lovely old fishing village of Roundstone, home to many great movie shoots and stars. Clifden the “capital” of Connemara is midway.. Our Guide to things to do and see in Galway

Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard Great to visit on the same day as Brigit’s Gardens as it is only a few miles further. The turnoff is at the Oughterard Golf Club. The castle dates from the 16th century (circa 1500) and has a long and interesting history. The setting in idyllic and again, great for a picnic. If you would like the hotel to arrange a picnic for you, please contact reception the day before. Family Ticket €8.00

More information about the castle: www.heritageireland.ie and http://www.galway.net/galwayguide/todo/sights/county_galway/aughnanure_castle Tel. 091-552214

Oughterard, Glann Road & Hill of Doon After leaving Aughnanure Castle you can drive to Oughterard, a lovely village with pubs for a refreshment before heading out to the Glann Road which follows the shores of Lough Corrib for about 9 miles. You can then park your car and enjoy the scenery or continue on foot and climb the paths up into the hills. The Hill of Doon can be seen across the water and looks like a small island but it is actually part of the shoreline.

www.oughterardtourism.com http://oughterard.galway-ireland.ie/hill-of-doon.htm

Kylemore Abbey & Gardens Kylemore Abbey is the oldest of the Irish Benedictine Abbeys and has been home to the Irish Benedictine nuns since 1920. The building is absolutely stunning within superb surroundings. The Victorian Walled Garden is completely enclosed by a brick and limestone wall and was constructed at the same time as the castle. The Visitor Centre, Abbey & Church are open to visitors all year from 9am – 5pm, but the Victorian Walled Garden is open from 10am – 4.30pm and is completely closed from the end of October to mid March. www.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie Tel. 095-52000 Walking and Environmentally Friendly Activities

Walk from The Twelve via Salthill Prom to Galway City Duration: 1.5 - 3 hours If it’s lovely day, why don’t you take the challenge of walking to the city centre? Walk along the main road to the Galway Golf Course and from there, along the prom, directly to the Spanish Arch. Now, you definitely deserve a refreshment in town.

The Gaeltacht Way in Connemara (Irish: Bealach na Gaeltachta - Sli Chonamara) This is a 240km long distance walking route with different routes varying from 8km to 54km (2-3 days) Most of them are along open country. Please ask for the Sli Chonamara map.

The Western Way The total distance is about 50km and it starts in Oughterard, following the shore of Lough Corrib to Maam, Maumean, Inagh, Toorenaconna and ending in Leenane.

Connemara Walking Centre Island House, Market Street, Clifden, Tel. 095-21379 www.walkingireland.com The Connemara Walking Centre offers guided half day and full day walks to explore the heritage and landscape of the Connemara region.

West of Ireland Walking Centre Letterfrack www.connemarawalking.ie This website divides walks into “Easy Walks in Connemara’ – not too much trouble”, “Medium Walks in Connemara’’ – walks that take a little more effort” and “Harder Walks in Connemara’’ – walks for the fitness buff”

Connemara National Park Perfect for a daytrip – and why not in combination with Kylemore Abbey & Gardens. Established and opened in 1980 the Connemara National Park covers nearly 3.000 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the Park's mountains are part of the famous Twelve Bens (Beanna Beola). The Visitor Centre is located in Letterfrack.

www.connemaranationalpark.ie Visitor Centre Tel: 095-41323

Brigit’s Gardens, Roscahill This lovely place is set within 11 acres of native woodland and wildflower meadows and themed on the Celtic seasonal festivals. It features nature trails, an ancient ring fort, children’s discovery trails, calendar sundial (largest in Ireland) and a garden café. Its great fun for families and a safe environment. You can bring along a picnic and relax in the grass while the children play. There are lots of special events on dates like Easter, Summer Solstice and Halloween. It is less than 30 minutes by car and a great friend of The Twelve. www.brigitsgarden.ie Tel. 091-550905 Our Guide to things to do and see in Galway

Connemara Gaeltacht Cycling Tours Tel. 095-33618 0r 095-33542 They offer cycling tour packages in the Connemara region

Angling Our wonderful location has so many varied options for the angling enthuasist: The Ghillie’s Lair, Basil Shields PAGI, Ardnasillagh Lodge, Oughterard Tel. 091-552550, guide & instructor for trout, salmon & sea trout fishing Galway Bay Sea Safaris, Operator: Kevin MacGabhann, Spiddal Tel. 091-553286 Aran Island Sea Angling, Operator: Enda Conneely, Innishere Tel. 099-75073 Spiddal Angling School, Tel. 091-553510 for individuals or groups

Alternatives for Rainy Galway Days…

Thermal Suite at the ‘Spirit One Spa’ at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Galway Lough Atalia Road, Te;. 091-538462 www.spiritonespa.com The Thermal Suite at €35 for 4 hours. This consists of ergonomically designed heated loungers and a ‘laconium’ which offers gentle heat with citrus oils and light therapy. There is also a steam cabin with essential oils and a sauna which is heated to 95°C. The artificial beach takes you through a dawn to dusk cycle. It’s a very relaxing treat, and the perfect way to spend a rainy day in Galway.

Cinemas Show times available online or in the newspapers, tickets can be booked online Omniplex Cinema, Headford Road (near Galway Shopping Centre) Telephone: 0818 - 719719 and www.omniplex.ie EYE Cinema, Wellpark Retail Park (g Hotel) Telephone: 091 – 780000 and www.eyecinema.ie

Entertainment Centre - City Limits Oranmore (behind the Maldron Hotel), Tel. 091-388100 www.citylimits.ie City Limits is a good entertainment venue, consisting of a medley of activities for both young and old and providing exercises for body or mind or both. Choose from go-karting, a climbing wall, laser quest, airpark, videogames, pool tables, snooker club, sports bar or 18 lane bowling alley. Telephone: 091 388100 Show “Trad on the Prom” Salthill Hotel, Promenade Sathill www.tradontheprom.com If you like Irish Music and Dance you should book tickets for “Trad on the Prom”. The show is a world class performance of Irish music, song and dance and takes place from May to September. For bookings telephone 087 2388489 or online: www.tradontheprom.com Family Fun…

National Aquarium in Salthill Seapoint Promenade Salthill, Tel. 091-585100 www.nationalaquarium.ie Opening Hours Wednesday to Friday 10am to 5 pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm. Admission Adults €10.50, Toddlers up to age 3 are free, kids up to age 16 € 6.25, Students and Seniors €7, Family Tickets 2+2 €29 1+2 €20 additional child €4

Loughwell Farm Park on Moycullen to Spiddal Road, Tel. 091 868 631 www.loughwellfarmpark.ie The kids just love this place.... Tariffs: €10 per child and €7 per adult

Turoe Pet Farm Turoe House, Bullan, Loughrea, Co. Galway, Tel. 091-841580 www.turoepetfarm.com Walk around the 14acre park, inflatable city, two outdoor playgrounds and a football pitch, indoor play area, feed and pet the animals.

Monkey Business Western Distributor Road, Knocknacarra Shopping Centre, Tel. 091 580956 Closed Wednesdays ( excluding School Holidays) open 10am – 6pm, under 2 €6, over 2 €8 / an hour. Tuesday 10am €8 for 2 hrs + tea/coffee for parents

Galway City Library Augustine Street, Galway City, Tel. 091-509000 www.galwaylibrary.ie The Library has Parent and Toddler Sessions on Fridays at 11am

Busy Bees Oranmore Business Park, Tel. 091-778516 www.busybeegalway.com Busy Bees in Oranmore is a fun-packed adventure centre for children from 6 months to 10 years old. Bouncing castles, large play structure with slides, ball pools, mazes, indoor basketball and soccer court, party rooms, separate toddler area, discoteque and children's restaurant.

National Musuem of Country Life Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, Tel. 01-6777444 www.museum.ie Located just outside Turlough Village, on the N5 (6.5km east from Castlebar, Co. Mayo) about one hour from Galway. Ideal for families and culture buffs the museum features galleries, a 19th Century house, the extensive grounds of Turlough Park with gardens, woodland walks and a river and lake all overlooked by an ancient Round Tower

Westport House & Country Park, Westport, Co. Mayo, Tel. 098-27766 www.westporthouse.ie About 1 hour’s drive from Galway, located In Westport, Co. Mayo is The Pirate Adventure Park which opened in 2009 and offers loads of fun and adventure for families. Feeling Sporty…

Walk from Woodquay to ‘the Long Walk’, Galway City The walk starts at Woodquay, where the Corrib princess boat tour leaves from. You can see old railway pillars in the middle of the Corrib River, a man made waterfall near the angling club and the buildings of NUIG, which are over 150 years old. You walk past the Cathedral which is very impressive with a 150 foot high domed ceiling. Then stroll along the river with the canal to your left and feed the ducks!

The Promenade Salthill Perfect trail for walking (alone or with your dog), jogging, roller blading or biking. It’s always busy no matter whether day or night.

Pure Skill, Galway West Retail Park, Western Distributor Road, Knocknacarra, Tel. 091-515510 www.pureskill.ie The new ultimate indoor sport venue with a circuit of 10 automated sports arenas such as Baseball Batting, Cricket Bowl, Basketball Penalties, 20 metre Gaelic Kick, 20 metre Rugby Kick, Golf Putting, Golf Pitching to target, Tennis return serve to a target, Hurling Shots to target, Soccer Penalties. It really sounds great and I can already feel the stiffness. Open 7 days a week!

Barna Golf and Country Club Corboley, Barna, Tel. 091-592677 www.bearnagolfclub.com Just 5 – 10 minutes from The Twelve Hotel in the direction of Moycullen. The Golf Course is a challenge and the 13th hole is something special…

Galway Golf Club Black Rock, Coast Road, Salthill, Tel. 091 – 522033 www.galwaygolf.com Also just 5 minutes drive on the Coast Road, located at Blackrock in Salthill.

Leisureland Salthill Seaside Promenade, Salthill, Tel. 091-521455 www.leisureland.ie Swimming and fitness. The gym is €10 for the day for non-members. Great kids area with a pirate’s paradise.

Rusheen Bay Windsurfing Rusheen Bay, Coast Road, Knocknacarra, Tel. 087-2605702 www.rusheenbay.com Just a stone’s throw from The Twelve at the enclosed Rusheen Bay which is the perfect location for beginners with calm waters to provide an ideal and safe environment but also for those who want to improve their windsurfing skills. Our Guide to things to do and see in Galway

Moycullen Riding Centre Poulnaclough, Moycullen Phone Sandra 087-2043944 www.moycullenriding.com Located near Barna Golf Course with horses and ponies to suit all ages and standards, beautiful scenic bog roads, trekking, lessons, trail rides. A.I.R.E. approved

Clonboo Riding School Corrandulla, Co. Galway, Tel. 091-791362 or 087-9111738 Approximately 15 minutes drive from Galway City. Individual attention with qualified instructors, appointments necessary. B.H.S. approved

Killary Adventure Centre Leenane, Co. Galway, Tel. 095-43411 www.killaryadventure.com Located about one hour from Galway offering numerous activities such as: rock climbing, hill walking, high & low ropes challenge, zip wire, archery, clay pigeon shooting, laser combat games, bungee, bridge jump, giant swing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, water skiing,… Activities are scheduled each day in two time slots.

Delphi Mountain Resort Leenane, Co. Galway, Tel. 095-42208 www.delphimountainresort.com Relax – be active – enjoy! That’s the way to describe the Delphi Resort with onsite adventure centre, situated in the scenic, breathtaking Delphi Valley in Connemara. About 25 activities spread out over the water, land and mountains, i.e. day trip sea kayaking out on the Killary Fjord, surfing, high & low ropes, hill walking. Or just relax in the Spa… It’s a good 90 minutes drive from here but worth it!

Rent a bike! Combine those two things: being sportive and choosing an environmental friendly activity and explore the area by bike. The result: you might see hidden beauties you wouldn’t have discovered passing by in the car. Here’s a listing with places which provide bicycles.

Garry’s Cycles Coast Road, Barna, Tel. 091-592971 Opening times: Mon to Saturday About 2 minutes walk from the hotel so it’s the easiest way to start your journey immediately. Price: €10 per day per bike, special rate & offers for Twelve Hotel guests.

West Ireland Cycling www.westirelandcycling.com 11 Upper Dominick Street, Tel. 091-588830 or 086-3854822

Bike Tours Ireland www.bikehireireland.com City Centre, Contact Alan @086-8487097 Galway’s World Famous Festivals and Events…

The TedFest February www.tedfest.org . Tedfest is The Friends of show Fesival which is held on Inish Mor each year. Its a must if you like the Irish sense of humour. The famous tv series was set on the fictional off Ireland's west coast, so Ted Fest is also held on such an island.

St Patrick’s Parade 16th - 18th March www.stpatricksgalway.com Every year it offers something different and exciting, a great atmosphere and a brilliant day out for all the family. The main event, the Parade, starts at noon on March 17th. Pipe bands, dance groups and performance artists come from all over the world to Galway each year to experience a parade that is widely regarded as one of the best in Ireland.

Cúirt International Festival of Literature April www.cuirt.ie Cúirt International Festival of Literature is an annual celebration of the very best of contemporary writing in poetry, fiction and memoir. Cúirt has always placed the writer and the reader at its core. It features many Irish writers who have been recognised nationally and internationally for their literary talent.

Galway Early Music Festival May www.galwayearlymusic.com The Galway Early Music Festival features medieval, renaissance and baroque music and dance, with Concerts by internationally-recognised performers using historical instruments, workshops and costumed street performance. The Galway Good Food Festival June Set to become one of the best food festivals in Europe, the Galway good food festival is a must for everyone. Its educational aspect sets it apart from all other food festivals. It is a celebration of Galway’s wonderful heritage food producers and restaurants.

The Galway Film Fleadh July www.galwayfilmfleadh.com Ireland's leading film festival, is a six-day international event welcoming a diversity of films from around the world. The Fleadh is very much a filmmaker's festival and attracts directors, actors, cinematographers and artists of all generations and cultural backgrounds. Our Guide to things to do and see in Galway

The Galway International Arts Festival July www.galwayartsfestival.ie A world spectacle - It which works with artists and companies throughout the world to produce and present an international programme of theatre, spectacle, dance, visual arts, music, literature & comedy involving hundreds of artists and performers. The festival has become a vital showcase for Irish arts internationally and international arts in Ireland and is now firmly established as Ireland's leading arts festival.

For many. the highlight of the Festival is the the Macnas Festival Parade which takes place on the final Sunday throughout the streets of Galway.

Galway Races July www.galwayraces.ie During the last week of July, Galway is the place in the world to be if you are into horse racing and a great party atmosphere.

The Oyster Festival September www.galwayoysterfest.com September is oyster month in Galway with the famous Oyster and Guinness Festival. Sample some of the finest oysters from the West with a pint of ‘the black’ during a weekend of non- stop entertainment which features top-class national and international artists, cabaret and dancing.

Baboró International Arts Festival for Children October www.baboro.ie A unique festival especially created for young audiences and their families, Baboro provides a feast of fun, creativity and spellbinding performances for children of all ages. Showcasing some of the finest and most exciting theatre, dance, music, puppetry and visual art from Ireland and around the world.

Galway Comedy Festival October www.galwaycomedyfestival.com Some of the most magical, hysterical and outright funny folk on the planet gather in Galway for your enjoyment. There's a whole range of styles to suit every taste, and you will not be disappointed. Look out for surprise gigs not listed that will pop up here, there and everywhere over the weekend.

The hotel at the crossroads, where history and tradition meet luxury and style Bearna, Co Galway, Ireland T: 353(0)9 1 597000 F : 353(0)9 1 597003 E: [email protected] www.thetwelvehotel.ie