The History of Renvyle Castle
Renvyle Castle, a 13th–14th century tower house in Connemara, is steeped in legend, from a violent clan takeover to its ties with the pirate queen Grace O'Malley. Though now in ruins and closed to the public, it remains a striking landmark along the wild Atlantic coast.
Renvyle Castle
Renvyle Castle, also known as O’Flaherty’s Castle, is a 13th–14th century tower house located in Curragh Townland in the Renvyle area of north-west Connemara. Steeped in legend, it is said to have originally belonged to the Joyce Clan before being violently seized by the O’Flahertys during a wedding feast, leaving only one survivor to tell the tale. The castle later became a retreat for the famed pirate queen Grace O'Malley following her marriage to Donal O’Flaherty around 1546. After his death, she returned to her family lands in Mayo, and the O’Flahertys relocated to what is now the site of Renvyle House Hotel. Local lore even suggests Grace O’Malley partially destroyed the castle with cannon fire from the sea.
Though now in a state of ruin and not open to the public, the castle remains an evocative landmark visible from the road. Located right beside it, The Olde Castle B& B offers guests a unique opportunity to stay within the shadow of this historic site, immersing themselves in the rich stories and wild beauty of Connemara’s coastline.
Location that is steeped in History
Set in the heart of Renvyle in north-west Connemara, the bed and breakfast is surrounded by a landscape rich in history, legend and rugged natural beauty. From ancient tower houses and clan strongholds to stories of seafaring clans and the legendary Grace O'Malley, this coastline has long been shaped by centuries of heritage and folklore.
Today, guests can experience this sense of place firsthand, where windswept shores, quiet country roads, and historic landmarks create a unique connection to Connemara’s past, all from the comfort of a peaceful, authentic local stay.