It’s somewhere that sticks with you long after you’ve left. Lush landscapes, breathtaking coastline, charming villages and stunning scenery, Connemara is easy to fall in love with and hard to let go. Located along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the Connemara region is packed with incredible experiences for every kind of traveller. From outdoor adventures to hidden gems we’ve got all the best things to do in Connemara laid out for you right here. (Scroll to the end for an easy-to-follow map to all these places!)
above: Diamond Hill, courtesy of Tourism Ireland
Hike the Trails of Connemara National Park then Treat Yourself to KABO Coffee
There’s no better way to start a Connemara adventure than with a wander through Connemara National Park, where the landscape is almost as breathtaking as the hikes themselves. Rugged mountains rise above wide-open boglands, winding trails cut through heather and stone, and every turn seems to open up another view you didn’t expect. If you’re up for it, the climb up Diamond Hill rewards you with sweeping panoramas that stretch out over the Twelve Bens and beyond, making every step worth it.
Once you’ve soaked up enough views, head just down the road to KABO Coffee for a proper reset. This is a cosy little dog-friendly speciality coffee spot in the heart of Letterfrack, serving great coffee, homemade treats, and a lovely mix of Irish-made gifts and local goodies. No matter if you're sitting in for a bit or just passing through, do pop in and make yourself at home.
(Bonus: This combo is ideal to do with your dog by your side, walkies and a puppuccino? When you bring your pup with you to KABO Coffee it even earns you a 20 cent discount off your coffee order!)
above: Oileánra Seaweed Baths, by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Go for a Soak at Oileánra Seaweed Baths
Seaweed bath and sea swim anyone? If there’s one thing South Connemara does effortlessly, it’s embracing its relationship with the Atlantic, and Oileánra Seaweed Baths is a perfect example of that connection. Here you’re met with baths of mineral-rich water and hand-harvested seaweed that’s been part of Irish wellness traditions for generations. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, your skin will thank you.
The experience is best paired with the soothing warmth of their state-of-the-art sauna (it invites total relaxation). The contrast between seaweed bath and sauna is addictive in a way that’s hard to explain until you’ve tried it. You leave feeling equal parts refreshed, grounded, and very aware that you’ve just done something properly Irish. A dip in the nearby Atlantic itself is also well worth doing during your visit - if you’re feeling brave enough to bear the cold, that is.
To book your session and for more information visit oileanra.ie
above: Kylemore Abbey, courtesy of Kylemore Abbey
Spend a Day at Kylemore Abbey
Few places in Ireland feel as instantly cinematic as Kylemore Abbey, where gothic architecture meets a mirror-like lake and rolling grounds. Year round, visitors are welcomed onto its 1,000 acre estate to experience the magnificence and romance of the Abbey, neo-gothic church, mausoleum and of course the beautiful Victorian walled garden. That’s not all there is to do however because the entire estate is covered with woodland and lakeshore walks that will take you on a journey through Kylemore.
Kylemore Abbey has quite the history too, with its origins as an elaborate love token by a wealthy surgeon and MP, Mitchell Henry to his wife Margaret, to being the home of Benedictine Nuns who, after fleeing war torn Belgium, created a space of reflection, education and welcome which is enjoyed still by all visitors to the estate - let’s just say Kylemore has its fair share of intriguing tales! Whether you’re there for the history, the architecture, or just the atmosphere, Kylemore has a quiet, timeless quality that makes you slow down without even realising it.
For tickets and more information visit kylemoreabbey.com
above: Spiddal Craft Village, courtesy of Stephen Duffy
Bring Home some Souvenirs from Spiddal Craft Village
Full of colour, character and coastal charm, Spiddal/Ceardlann Craft Village is a celebration of local creativity right on the edge of the Gaeltacht. Here, studios and workshops showcase everything from handmade pottery to intricate textiles, all shaped by the hands of local artists. There’s a real sense of pride in every piece, and some days you can watch crafts being made in real time.
It’s not just about browsing either because it offers a chance to connect with the maker behind the work. Even a quick visit tends to turn into a slow wander, and more often than not, you’ll leave with something you didn’t plan to buy but couldn’t quite walk away from. Shure, why wouldn’t you, really?
above: Cromwell's Fort on Inishbofin, courtesy Róisín Murray and Imelda Reid
Hop on the Ferry to Inishbofin Island
A short ferry ride away from mainland Connemara lies Inishbofin Island, (Island of the White Cow), where life feels like it slows down the moment you arrive. The journey is only a 30-minute crossing away from Cleggan, a lovely little village that is only a short drive from Clifden town centre.
Inishbofin can be visited on a day trip or alternatively you can spend the night with one of the island’s accommodation providers and enjoy seeing the night sky without the light pollution for a change. There are loads of things to see and do on the island, from its phenomenal landscapes and sea views to the delicious local food and drink scene, we are certain that you’ll love absolutely everything you come across on Inishbofin Island. Every year, at the start of May, the island hosts the Inishbofin Arts Festival which welcomes a plethora of events centred around the arts and local community. It’s always super fun and we highly recommend you experience it at least once!
To book your ferry to Inishbofin and to begin planning your trip visit inishbofinferry.ie
above: Killary Fjord, courtesy of Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark
Activities Galore Await You at Killary Fjord and Killary Adventure Centre
As Ireland’s only glacial fjord, visiting Killary Fjord is a truly unique experience. In order for you to get the most out of your time here, the 9-minute sightseeing tour offered by Killary Fjord Boat Tours are not to be missed. Complete with an informative commentary outlining the natural and social history of the Fjord as well as the ancient mythology surrounding these waters and uninterrupted views of the “savage beauty” of North Connemara’s spectacular scenery, the tour will take you to the mouth of the Fjord, the gateway to the majestic Atlantic coast beyond, and offer unrivalled views of otherwise impossible to reach sections of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.
Nearby, Killary Adventure Centre adds a burst of adrenaline to the scenery. Ideal for families, groups, corporates, hens and stags, Killary has awesome options for both land and water based activities. With high adrenaline activities to gentler pursuits all available on-site, they have something for everyone. Activities include; kayaking on the fjord, ringo rides, their famous Turf Challenge, high ropes, archery, clay pigeon shooting and much more. All activities take place on-site led by a team of experienced instructors, with all equipment and safety gear provided, simply show up and let the fun commence.
Visit killaryadventure.com to book your next great adventure and visit killaryfjord.ie to book a guided tour of this unique fjord.
above: Alcock & Brown Landing Site, courtesy of Galway County Council
Visit the Alcock & Brown Landing Site
Who would have imagined that one of the most important aviation sites in the world can be found marked by an egg-shaped monument in a bog near Clifden town?
Out in the open bogland near Clifden town is the historic Alcock and Brown Landing Site, a place that marks one of Ireland’s most remarkable historical moments. It was here that the first non-stop transatlantic flight crash-landed in 1919, and standing there today, you still get a sense of the scale of that achievement. With the Atlantic stretching out in one direction and the rugged Connemara landscape in the other, it’s easy to imagine just how daring that journey must have been.
The landmark is easily accessible on foot thanks to the 5km Derrigimlagh bog loop walk which will take you right to the landing site while telling you the complete story of the event via seven stop points along the way. The (crash) landing site of the first non-stop transatlantic flight by aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown was a monumental moment in aviation history. On the morning of Alcock and Brown’s landing in Clifden, they were greeted by a local farmer, Tom “Cork” Kenny who asked them: “Are you flying or sailing?” They replied “flying”, and with that Kenny helped them out of their aircraft and brought them home for some breakfast - Talk about a céad míle fáile!
above: Connemara Golf Links, courtesy of Connemara Golf Links
Navigate the Fairways of Connemara Golf Links
Looking for a golfing adventure with a side of jaw-dropping scenery? Connemara Golf Links in Creggoduff, Ballyconneely, delivers just that! Set right on the edge of the Atlantic, Connemara Golf Links is one of those places where the scenery nearly outplays the sport itself. The course winds through dunes and coastal grassland, with the wind constantly reminding you who’s really in charge out here. Every hole feels exposed to the elements in the best possible way, making it as much about adapting to nature as it is about your swing.
Even if you’re not an experienced golfer, it’s worth a visit and round just to take in the setting. Open for visitors year-round, Connemara Golf Links and its spectacular surroundings promise adventure, natural beauty, and a few incredible stories along the way.
For more information and to book some tee time visit connemaragolflinks.com.
above: Real Adventures Connemara, courtesy of Real Adventures Connemara
Explore the Great Outdoors with Real Adventures Connemara
For those who like to get properly stuck into the local surroundings, Real Adventures Connemara is the place to do it. This is Connemara at its most hands-on, coasteering along rocky shores, sea kayaking as the sunsets, rock climbing on actual rock and exploring parts of the coastline you simply wouldn’t see otherwise. Their adventurous team can help you organise a day’s itinerary full of challenging and enjoyable activities, all tailored to your preferences. It’s adventurous, a little unpredictable, and guaranteed to leave you with a grin you can’t quite shake.
For more information and to book your activities visit realadventures.ie/connemara/
above: Dog's Bay Beach & Gurteen Beach, courtesy of Gareth McCormack
Work on your Tan on Dog’s Bay Beach & Gurteen Beach
Just outside Roundstone along the Wild Atlantic Way, the twin beaches of Dog’s Bay Beach and Gurteen Beach look like they belong somewhere with a far warmer climate. With their pale white shell sand and turquoise waters, they curve into a horseshoe shape that feels almost surreal on a sunny day. If you want to enjoy a beach day in Connemara this spot should absolutely be on your radar.
The area surrounding the beaches has international importance for its rare and interesting ecological, geological and archaeological features. The sand and grassland habitats are of particular interest as the sand was not formed from rocks, but rather from shells. The grasslands themselves also are considered rare and are found only on the west coast of Ireland and Scotland.
Connemara - Bus it and Tour it with Lally Tours
If you would prefer to leave the planning up to someone else, let Lally Tours’ Connemara Tours handle the itinerary and simply show up for the ride. With local guides who know every bend in the road and every hidden viewpoint, they offer an element of storytelling that is as immersive as the sightseeing.
You can sit back, take in the changing landscapes, and let someone else handle the route while you focus on the views. It’s an easy, comfortable way to experience Connemara’s wild beauty while still feeling connected to everything you’re passing through. Spending a few days in Galway? Take advantage of the bundle discounts and special offers to see even more of the west with friendly local experts who genuinely love sharing their home with you.
For more information and bookings visit lallytours.com
Main image courtesy of Fáilte Ireland.
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