Connaucht Hospitality Group is set to open a five-star hotel overlooking Galway Bay in spring 2026, the first new property of its kind in the city for more than two decades.
The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is being developed on a coastal site west of the city.
According to the group, the design was influenced by the native hawthorn trees that surround the location, aiming to combine natural landscapes with contemporary architecture.
Similarly, interiors of the property will focus on calm, understated spaces, with an emphasis on natural materials.
Connaucht Hospitality stated that the hotel would offer “a new standard of luxury” for the region. The cost of the development has not been disclosed.
Ahead of the launch, the group has appointed John Keating as general manager.
Keating has more than 30 years’ experience in luxury hospitality, with senior roles in the Caribbean, Asia and Scotland.
He previously oversaw projects focused on sustainability, staff development and service standards.
Keating said: “I’m delighted to return to Ireland to lead the opening. My priority would be to build a team capable of delivering exceptional service rooted in Irish hospitality traditions.”
