No trip to Galway really feels complete without a stroll along the Salthill Promenade. I still remember the first time I wandered its 2–3 km stretch, the fresh sea air hitting my face, the soft sound of waves lapping against the shore, and the wide-open view of Galway Bay stretching endlessly ahead. On a clear day, you can just make out the distant hills of the Burren, hazy on the horizon, and I found myself pausing again and again, just taking it all in.

The promenade is wonderfully flat and easy, which made it perfect for me to just wander at my own pace. I passed families, joggers, and couples strolling hand in hand, all sharing the same simple joy of being by the sea. When I reached the end, I couldn’t resist kicking the wall for good luck, laughing at myself, but secretly feeling a tiny connection with every other person who had done the same over the years.

I ended up turning back slowly, lingering by the railings and watching the sunlight dance on the water. There’s something about Salthill Promenade that makes you feel part of Galway itself, friendly, open, and perfectly at ease with the Atlantic breeze.