CONNAMARA
Oscar Wilde described it as a ‘savage beauty’ and its patchwork of brooding lakes, rugged mountains, and windswept bogs certainly gives a sense of splendid isolation. But Connemara is also home to some of Ireland’s finest beaches, with wide stretches of pure white sands lapped by turquoise seas, and to picturesque fishing villages, tranquil coves, dramatic islands and some of the richest culture and traditions in Europe. The incredible landscape and vagaries of nature mean that Connemara remains wild at heart. Embraced by craggy mountains and protected by its relative isolation, the region has remained a bastion of tradition and is home to Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area). Traditional music, dance and crafts are celebrated in a series of lively festivals and on the islands of Inishbofin and Aran you’ll get a rare insight into how life in Ireland once was, their rich heritage embodied in the stone-walled fields and ancient monastic remains.
Inland, you’ll share the deserted valleys and breath-taking scenery with no more than the odd flock of sheep, the expansive views and gentle calm instilling a real sense that you have left the rest of the world behind. The unhurried pace of life is one of the region’s hallmarks and the warm welcome you’ll receive stems from local pride and a genuine desire to share what is best about the area with anyone lucky enough to make it here. Stretching from Galway Bay in the south to Killary Harbour in the north, Connemara takes in the rugged peaks of the Twelve Bens, the slate-grey waters of Lough Corrib, and the desolate beauty of the Inagh Valley. Wherever you go you’ll find spectacular opportunities to discover the great outdoors with scenic cycling on quiet, twisty roads; magnificent walking on dramatic hills; bracing horse riding on pristine beaches, prize angling, championship golf and a range of adrenaline fuelled adventure activities that make the most of the dramatic surroundings. Connemara has a bewitching mix of attractions on offer. It’s the kind of place that warms your heart and steals your soul. A place that fuels the fondest of memories and beckons you back year after year. One trip and you’ll never forget it.
The area called Connemara is too big to be seen in one day. If you only have one day however we suggest the following: Take the N 59 to Maam Cross turn left once you cross over the Maam Bridge, proceed to Leenaun at the mouth of Killary Harbour. Stop for coffee in one of the small pubs or restaurants, visit the Sheep and Wool centre. Have some fresh crab and brown bread in Hamiltons pub (highly recommend) or alternatively look for the Misunderstood Heron food truck located just outside Leenaun at Derrynacleigh There is also the Killary Boat Fjord Cruises , a 90 minute trip to enjoy uninterrupted views of the breath-taking scenery on the Killary - Ireland's only fjord and the Killary Adventure Centre for the adventurous sports enthusiast. Leaving Leenaun behind you will find the world famous Kylemore Abbey located 8 miles along the main Clifden Road. The Abbey itself is a building of remarkable beauty and the newly opened Victorian Gardens are a must see with a coffee/craft shop within the premises also. Further along this route you will find The Connemara National Park which is an ideal spot for a picnic or a scenic walk.
Finish your journey in Clifden where you can take the’ Sky Road’ drive , a sixteen km drive known for its spectacular beauty . Very few places can match its beauty and mystery. Back in town enjoy the wonderful food and music this town has to offer. Check out ‘What’s on in Clifden’ to see what is going on as many well-known artists, poets and musicians regularly entertain in this charming town. Remember to visit the Alcock and Brown memorial site where the first transatlantic flight landed on May 21st 1027.
