New 5-star golf hotel set for opening as part of a wider €60 million project
A brand new Irish 5-star luxury golf hotel is set to open to customers in May 2026, led by the Connacht Hospitality Group as part of a wider €60 million project.The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, located on the grounds of the 18-hole Galway Bay Golf Course, has 114 rooms, a signature restaurant, The Skylark, and a full-service spa.It is the first five-star property to open in Galway in more than two decades and looks to combine championship golf, immersive wellness and destination in the region.With events like the Open at Portrush and Ryder Cup to come at Adare Manor in 2027, golf tourism on the island of Ireland is a major economic driver, contributing over €700 million annually to the economy.More than 220,000 international golfers visit annually, with North American tourists, who often spend three times more than average visitors, making up the majority of the market. The sector supports 15,600 jobs.The opening in May will be the the fulfilment of a long-held vision by Irish Ryder Cup legend Christy O’Connor Jnr to establish the site as a global golf destination. The Galway-born former European Tour player designed the original Galway Bay course that first opened on the picturesque site in 1993.Aimed at local and international golfers, the golf hotel is set on the Wild Atlantic Way between north and south. The course has also benefited from recent investment, including a full bunker regeneration project.Dean Montgomery, the venue’s director of golf, said: “The golf course here has always had remarkable natural potential, and it is a privilege to be overseeing its next chapter. Our focus is on elevating the holistic golf experience while respecting Christy O’Connor Jnr’s original vision for the site.“The course offers a compelling challenge for international visitors, and the opening of The Hawthorn will provide luxury-seekers with the perfect base to explore this wonderful destination.”The Hawthorn also boasts The Oystercatcher Bar, which will offer Japanese cuisine with panoramic views across the championship course and Galway Bay.They also have their own chocolatier in the Chocolate Nest, a Whiskey Room and a Wine Cellar, designed for curated tastings and private events.“As we approach our May opening, there is a real sense of excitement within the team as we prepare to welcome guests to this extraordinary destination," said Hawthorn General manager John Keating.Potential customers can make bookings now, with dates available starting from May 15th, 2026.Want to see more of the stories you love from the Irish Mirror? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. To add Irish Mirror as a preferred source, simply click here.Click here to sign up to our sport newsletter, bringing you the top stories and biggest headlines from Ireland and beyond
