CONNEMARA

Connemara stretches west of Galway city to the Atlantic ocean and encompasses an area rich in wonderful, wild landscapes, natural heritage and historical sites. 

PLACES TO VISIT 

From Grasshopper Cottage, it is a drive of an hour or less to see  the Sheep and Wool Museum, Leenane; the Connemara National Park at Letterfrack; Dan O'Hara's Heritage Centre, Kylemore Abbey and Garden. 

Spend a day on one of the many sandy beaches dotted around the west coast - Glassillaun Beach, White Strand, Coral Strand. Explore sites of archaeological interest including Omey Island.

EXPLORE THE OFFSHORE ISLANDS

Take a ferry to one of the islands off the coast of Galway and Mayo including the Aran Islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Óirr with their remnants of ancient cultures, rocky landscapes, connections with the Irish language and wonderful flora.  

Hire a bike or wander on foot on Inisboffin with magnificent views back to the Twelve Bens and Connemara. 

Further  north in County Mayo, take the ferry from Roonagh Pier and explore Clare Island, in Clew Bay, stronghold of Grace O'Malley (Granuaile) known as the Pirate Queen. 

CLIFDEN

Clifden is the capital of Connemara and a popular tourist destination with a variety of shops, pubs and restaurants to tempt the visitor.  It is home to many artists, musicians and writers and hosts the annual Arts Week in September.  Great views are to be had on the drive along the Sky Road outside the town.