Eight beaches and lakefronts in Galway have been received Blue Flag awards for 2023, retaining all of the city and county’s top spots.
In Galway City Silverstrand and Salthill beaches have both retained their Blue Flag status.
Out in the county, Blue Flag awards have again gone to Bathing Place at Portumna, Loughrea Lake, Trá Inis OÃrr, Trá Mhór in Indreabhán, Trá an Dóilin in An Ceathrú Rua, and Cill Mhuirbhigh on Inis Mór.
Eight Green Coast awards have also been awarded for Galway in 2023, with all of last year’s prize spots retaining their accolades.
In the city Salthill and Silverstrand have been awarded the Green Coast accolade, along with An Trá and Trá Poll na gCaoirach on Inis Oirr, Renvyle Beach, East End Bay on Inisboffin, Dumhach Beach and Aillebrack/Silver Hill.
The Blue Flag, which is organised by An Taisce in Ireland, aims to raise environmental awareness and promote sound environmental management of beaches, marinas and eco-tourism boats around the world.
The Green Coast award recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty that attracts visitors.
