DISCOVER

The Burren Lowlands

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WHAT YOU CAN SEE

The Burren Lowlands weaves both ancient and modern history and culture together to create a memorable visitor experience. Visit our castles and monuments as you learn about Irish heritage and customs through the ages.

Thoor Ballylee, WB Yeat’s home, photo by Bernice Forde Carolan

The Burren Lowlands is a region of significant cultural and landscape heritage stretching from the Slieve Aughties to the Burren Highlands and from Kinvara to Crusheen.

The area’s distant past is visible in ancient monuments, and in more recent history, the Celtic Revival in literature and drama. It’s all waiting for you to discover!

Whether you fancy a restful day enjoying local produce from the farmer’s markets and being entertained by various buskers or more strenuous activities like cycling, swimming, or trekking, we can promise you one thing: your first visit to the Burren Lowlands won’t be your last!

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.


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WHAT YOU CAN DO

The Burren Lowlands offer a range of activities for all ages and abilities including paddle boarding, hiking, cycling, fishing, golf, or shopping for mementos of your visit. Check linked sites for access details.

Lough Bunny, perfect for yoga and paddle boarding, Photo by Nichola Cummiskey of SurfSUPyoga

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WHERE TO STAY & EAT

You have so many choices when deciding where to stay in our region, from one of our family run hotels, charming farmhouses, bed and breakfasts, or self-catering/eco-site accommodation. Experience our unique brand of Irish hospitality while enjoying mouth-watering locally produced food in the numerous cafes and restaurants. Burren Lowlands has a wide range of menus to tickle the tastebuds of those hungry for everything from high quality dining, coffee on the run, or an amazing picnic box to enjoy in the great outdoors.

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PLAN YOUR TRIP

So, you want to see it all? Check our Itineraries for suggestions to suit every interest and activity level. We have ideas for every preference, whether you’re feeling energetic or want something more relaxing. Pick and choose your favourite, just remember to leave something for your next trip!

The Burren Lowlands CLG

The Burren Lowlands CLG is bringing the Lowland West of Ireland to the world, with a vision to make the region a better place to live, work and visit by focussing on three key pillars: tourism community, enterprise.

The Burren Lowlands has become a focal point for remote working and tourism as the group works to reduce the isolation of rural life. The communities in the Burren Lowlands have been a shining light in exemplifying what is possible when local people come together to promote and develop their own area. For more detail, visit our About and Project pages.

Sustainability Policy

Forge Works Remote Working Gort, Co Galway

February 2026

1. Policy Statement

Forge Works Remote Working Hub is committed to operating as a sustainable, environmentally responsible, and community-focused remote working hub. We recognise our role in supporting regional economic development while minimising environmental impact and contributing positively to our local community.

This policy outlines our sustainability objectives and the actions we will take to achieve them.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All staff and management

  • Hub members and remote workers

  • Contractors and service providers

  • Visitors to the premises

3. Sustainability Objectives

3.1 Environmental Objectives

1. Reduce Energy Consumption

  • Improve building energy efficiency through insulation, LED lighting, and smart heating controls.

  • Monitor and review energy usage annually.

  • Encourage responsible energy use among members (e.g., switching off equipment when not in use).

2. Increase Renewable Energy Use

  • Where feasible, install or source renewable energy (e.g., solar PV).

  • Explore participation in green electricity tariffs.

 

3. Reduce Carbon Emissions

  • Promote remote working to reduce commuting distances.

  • Encourage carpooling, cycling, and walking where feasible.

  • Provide bicycle parking facilities.

  • Facilitate virtual meetings to reduce business travel.

4. Waste Reduction and Circular Economy

  • Implement a waste segregation system (recycling, compost, landfill).

  • Aim to reduce general waste annually.

  • Encourage paperless operations and digital communication.

  • Use reusable kitchenware instead of single-use plastics.

5. Sustainable Procurement

  • Prioritise local suppliers and Irish businesses where possible.

  • Select environmentally certified products (e.g., eco-labelled cleaning supplies).

  • Purchase durable, repairable furniture and equipment.

3.2 Social Objectives

1. Support Rural Community Development

  • Provide affordable workspace to support local entrepreneurs and remote workers.

  • Host community events, training sessions, and networking opportunities.

  • Collaborate with local businesses and organisations.

2. Promote Inclusion and Accessibility

  • Ensure the hub is accessible to people with disabilities where practicable.

  • Promote equality and diversity in membership and employment.

  • Offer flexible membership options to suit different needs.

3. Health and Wellbeing

  • Maintain a safe and healthy working environment.

  • Provide adequate ventilation, natural lighting, and ergonomic furniture.

  • Encourage work-life balance and mental wellbeing.

3.3 Economic Sustainability Objectives

  • Maintain long-term financial viability of the hub.

  • Monitor operational costs and resource efficiency.

  • Seek grants and funding opportunities that support sustainable development.

  • Reinforce the local economy by retaining skilled workers in the region.

4. Governance and Implementation

  • A designated Sustainability Lead (Hub Manager or appointed staff member) will oversee implementation.

  • Sustainability performance will be reviewed annually.

  • Members will be encouraged to provide suggestions for improvement.

  • This policy will be communicated to all members and made publicly available.

5. Compliance

We will comply with all relevant Irish environmental, health and safety, and waste management legislation.

6. Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement of our sustainability performance. Measurable targets will be developed over time, and progress will be reviewed annually.

Signed: Pamela Ward Hub Manager

Date: 24/02/2026

 

 

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COMMUNITY

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Our Partners

Gort Credit Union
Galway County Council
Discover Galway