Glengowla mines

The location of Glengowla mines is set in spectacular rugged scenery forests rivers and the renowned Lough Corrib. Situated two miles west of Oughterard, 300 metres off the N59 Galway/Clifden road, 20 minutes from Galway, 10 minutes from Maam Cross and 40 minutes from Clifden.

This Connemara mine, abandoned in 1865, is a unique reminder of the 19th century methods of ore extraction and processing. The tour explores large marble chambers and caverns studded with lead and silver pyrite and veins of calcite and quartz.

The mine is noted for its rare and beautiful octahedral crystals of fluorite and quartz.  Pitch pine timbers believed to be brought back to the west of Ireland by the emigrant coffin ships are still intact in the mine today.

Historic 19th Century silver and lead mine with guided underground tours every 20 minutes - last tour 5.30 pm.  A unique heritage attraction being the only one of its kind in the country.  A visit is a pleasurable experience.

Open March to November daily from 10:00 to 18:00. For visits at other times please call in advance.