The Best Places to Stay in Connemara

It’s no secret that Connemara is one of Galway’s most popular visitor destinations. If you have a holiday here planned soon or are a local looking to spend a night away from home, this guide will advise you on the very best places to stay, whether you’re seeking indulgent comfort, a bit of adventure, or a taste of authentic Irish hospitality. With so much natural beauty and so many experiences on offer, finding the right base can make your Connemara adventure truly unforgettable.

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When it comes to places to stay, Connemara truly has something for everyone, from luxurious hotels and boutique retreats with breathtaking views to cosy, budget-friendly options that let you experience local life up close. Discover our guide to where to stay in Connemara right here..

above: Renvyle House Hotel & Resort 

North Connemara: Letterfrack, Renvyle, Cleggan, the Connemara Loop, Leenaun, Kylemore

Places of Interest; Kylemore Abbey, Connemara National Park, Killary Sheep Farm, Killary Fjord, The Twelve Ben Mountains, Inishbofin Island. 

Luxury: Renvyle House Hotel & Resort

What is it? - A four-star family-owned, historic country house resort.
Best for: couples/romantic getaways, families, (self-catering lodges), weddings, dog-friendly (small to medium dogs only).
Standout features: outdoor heated swimming pool & hot tubs, 1km of beach, bar & lounge, woodland & walks, meetings & events space, outdoor activities; kayaking, tennis, croquet and shore angling, Renew - treatment rooms.
Address: Renvyle, Renvyle Peninsula, Connemara Loop, H91 X8Y8
Book your stay here 
Set on a 150-acre estate along the Wild Atlantic Way, Renvyle House Hotel & Resort combines historic charm with a stunning seaside setting. Guests can stroll through gardens and woodlands, swim in the heated outdoor pool, or unwind in hot tubs overlooking the Atlantic. With a private lake for fishing and boating, 1km of beach, tennis courts, kayaking, and croquet, there’s plenty to experience. Add in an award-winning restaurant and bedrooms with views of the ocean, mountains, or Rusheenduff Lake, and it’s easy to see why Renvyle is a favourite for romantic escapes, family breaks, and unforgettable gatherings.

Unique: The Killary Lodge 

What is it? - A luxurious and sustainable self-catering lodge on the estate of the Killary Adventure Company.
Best for: groups, families, team building, hens/stags, (self-catering), small weddings, wellness & corporate retreats.
Standout features: on grounds of activity centre, events room, private access to beach, outdoor covered seating area with BBQ, two fire pits, lift to first floor of lodge, eco-conscious products and practices.
Address: Killary Lodge, Tullyconor, Leenaun, H91 A2RY
Book your stay here 
Set on the shores of the Killary Fjord, The Killary Lodge offers luxurious self-catering accommodation surrounded by mature native woodland. The lodge sleeps up to 36 guests and is exclusively yours during your stay. With stylish, spacious interiors, private outdoor areas, and eco-conscious amenities, it’s both comfortable and contemporary. Located on the Killary Adventure Company estate, guests have access to over 20 onsite activities, from kayaking to zip-lining. Adventure, relaxation, and a touch of luxury come together here for an unforgettable escape.

above: Otter Hostel 

Budget: Otter Hostel 

What is it? - A self-catering hostel set in a restored 200-year-old house.
Best for: backpackers, hikers, dog-friendly, groups, solo travellers.
Standout features: on grounds of activity centre, gear drying room, extra showers, en-suite bathrooms for all rooms both private and dorms.
Address: Derrynasliggaun, Leenaun, H91 TP63
Book your stay here 
Otter Hostel is a cosy, down-to-earth base for those seeking adventure with comfort. Housed in a restored 200-year-old building, the hostel combines charm with modern convenience, offering en-suite rooms, a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, comfy lounge areas, and a gear-drying room, essential after a day in Connemara’s unpredictable weather. Recognised on the Fab 50 List of the Best Places to Stay in Ireland 2025 by The Irish Independent, Otter Hostel is perfect for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, local hikes, adventure activities, and nearby food spots, all while enjoying a welcoming, social atmosphere.

Luxury: Rosleague Manor Hotel 

What is it? - An exquisite manor house hotel with old-world charm.
Best for: couples/romantic getaways, weddings, special occasions.
Standout features: fine dining restaurant, sea or forest views from all the bedrooms, located on 30 acres of its own private woodland.
Address: Rosleague, Letterfrack, H91 CK26
Book your stay here 
Set on 30 acres of private woodland near Letterfrack, Rosleague Manor House Hotel is a regency-style retreat that exudes old-world charm and understated luxury. Each room is uniquely appointed with original antiques and thoughtful touches, many with stories of their own, while all offer serene views of the sea or surrounding forest. With a fine dining restaurant, cosy drawing rooms with open log fires, and a Victorian conservatory perfect for afternoon tea, Rosleague Manor House Hotel is ideal for getaways that stay with you long after your visit.

above: Old Monastery Hostel

Budget: Old Monastery Hostel

What is it? - A quirky self-catering hostel surrounded by nature.
Best for: backpackers, hikers, groups, solo travellers.
Standout features: every room has its own unique theme, location, camping ground which overlooks Ellis Wood and the bays/inlets, open air pub with dining areas.
Address: Letterfrack, H91 TK50
Book your stay here
Tucked away in the scenic surroundings of Letterfrack, Old Monastery Hostel is a quirky, self-catering stay full of character and charm. Each room is uniquely themed, while cosy interiors, warm fireplaces, and shelves of books invite you to unwind after a day exploring Connemara National Park and the surrounding coastline. Guests can enjoy an open-air pub, al-fresco dining, and a camping ground with stunning views over Ellis Wood and the nearby bays. Originally built by Quakers in the 1840s, this peaceful property offers both comfort and a truly authentic local experience, making it a favourite for backpackers, hikers, groups, and solo travellers alike.

above: Abbeyglen Castle Hotel 

Capital of Connemara: Clifden

For even more information on where to stay in Clifden please visit our article that explores them more in-depth here. 
Places of Interest; Sky Road, Alcock & Brown Landing Site, Clifden Castle, John D’Arcy Monument, Omey Island, Eyrephort Beach, Mannin Bay.

Luxury: Abbeyglen Castle Hotel 

What is it? - A luxurious four-star castle hotel located on Clifden’s famous Sky Road.
Best for: couples/romantic getaways, special occasions.
Standout features: helicopter landing pad, beautifully maintained gardens, piano bar, spa/treatment rooms, open fireplaces, bedrooms with four poster beds and free-standing claw-foot baths.
Address: Sky Road, Church Hill, Clifden, Connemara, H71 NX28
Book your stay here 
Clifden’s Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is a four-star retreat that blends luxurious comfort with timeless charm. From four-poster beds and claw-foot baths to open fireplaces and beautifully maintained gardens, every detail is designed to make guests feel like royalty. Run by brothers Ronan and Brian Hughes, the hotel offers a warm, personal touch, whether it’s welcoming you in the piano bar with a complimentary glass of bubbles or sharing local stories and history. With spa treatments, a helicopter landing pad, and an atmosphere that perfectly balances grandeur and intimacy, Abbeyglen is ideal for romantic getaways and special occasions.

above: Clifden Station House Hotel 

Family: Clifden Station House Hotel 

What is it? - A popular family hotel with onsite self-catering apartments.
Best for: families, dog-friendly, (self-catering apartments), groups, hens/stags,
Standout features: onsite 200-seat theatre, spa & leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool and a free kids club, wheelchair accessible apartments, bar & restaurant.
Address: Galway Road, Clifden, H71 AK52
Book your stay here 
A favourite for families visiting Connemara, Clifden Station House Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and plenty of fun. Guests can choose from hotel bedrooms or deluxe self-catering apartments, perfect for longer stays or family getaways. A huge benefit of staying here is the amount of complimentary facilities you can enjoy during your stay. All hotel guests can enjoy full use of these facilities which include free parking, onsite bar and restaurant, swimming pool, Renew Spa and leisure centre, as well as access to the free kids club which runs during school holidays. With so much to do both on-site and nearby, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring Clifden and the surrounding countryside.

Unique: Clifden Eco Beach Camping & Caravanning Park 

What is it? - An eco-friendly camping and caravan park.
Best for: campers, hikers, backpackers, dog-friendly, surfers.
Standout features: off-the-grid vibes, well-maintained facilities, private secluded beach, bike hire, eco-campfires.
Address: Claddaghduff Road, Wild Atlantic Way, Grallagh, Clifden, H71 W024
Book your stay here 
For a truly off-the-grid escape, Clifden Eco Beach Camping & Caravanning Park offers a unique eco-friendly experience on a private beach along the Wild Atlantic Way. Perfect for campers, hikers, surfers, and backpackers, the park combines well-maintained facilities with a back-to-nature vibe, including eco-campfires and bike hire. Days can be spent swimming, surfing, or exploring the rugged coastline, while nights invite stargazing far from city lights. With a chance to unplug, connect with fellow travellers, and embrace the simplicity of life, this is the ideal spot for slowing down and soaking in Connemara’s wild beauty. This is one of Ireland’s coolest eco-beach experiences.

above: The Central House Hotel 

Location: The Central House Hotel

What is it? - A boutique 12-bedroom hotel located in the heart of Clifden town.
Best for: families, solo travellers, couples.
Standout features: newly refurbished, location, private shower rooms, hassle-free self check-in and check-out.
Address: Main St, Clifden, H71 K283
Book your stay here 
With just twelve individually designed rooms and a location that places you in the very heartbeat of Clifden’s vibrant coastal town, The Central House Hotel is the perfect place to stay to explore all that Connemara has to offer. Each individually designed room features soft furnishings and private shower facilities, with options ranging from cosy doubles to spacious family suites. Newly refurbished and offering hassle-free self check-in and check-out, it’s an ideal base for exploring Connemara’s highlights, from Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park to the scenic Sky Road and nearby coastal towns. With the vibrancy of Clifden on your doorstep, this boutique hotel offers both a cosy retreat and easy access to adventure.

Luxury: Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa

What is it? - A boutique and family-run hotel & spa by Mannin Bay.
Best for: couples, families, groups, (self-catering cottages).
Standout features: direct access to Mannin Bay beach, seaweed spa, outdoor beach sauna, hot tub & cold plunge, wheelchair accessible rooms, beach views, bar & restaurant, eco-conscious practices.
Address: Mannin Bay, Derrygimlagh, Ballyconneely, H71 TY79
Book your stay here 
Nestled between the Twelve Bens mountains and the white sands of Mannin Bay, Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa is a family-run boutique retreat that combines luxury, wellness, and stunning natural surroundings. The hotel offers sea-view rooms, suites, and self-catering cottages, along with direct access to Mannin Bay beach. Guests can unwind in the seaweed spa, outdoor beach sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge, or simply enjoy the tranquil Atlantic setting. With a sustainable approach to all they do, fresh local cuisine, and a warm, personal welcome, Connemara Sands is the ideal base for relaxing, exploring, and immersing yourself in the heart of Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way.

above: Connemara Coast Hotel

South Connemara: Rossaveel, Inverin, Lettermullan, Roundstone, Carraroe, Gorumna

Places of Interest; Aran Islands from Rossaveel Harbour, Coral Strand, Lettermullan Island, The Fisherman’s Cottage, Dog’s Bay & Gurteen Beach.

Family: Connemara Coast Hotel 

What is it? - A four-star award-winning hotel overlooking Galway Bay.
Best for: weddings, couples, families, corporates.
Standout features: EV charging points, coastal walks & gardens, cabaret concerts, restaurants, outdoor hot tub, interconnecting rooms, The Coast Club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym and two all weather tennis courts.
Address: Cushmaigmore, Furbogh, H91 KX27
Book your stay here 
Overlooking Galway Bay, Connemara Coast Hotel is an award-winning retreat set just 15 minutes from Galway City and perfectly placed for exploring Connemara’s dramatic scenery. With landscaped grounds that sweep down to the water’s edge, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the Bay, the Burren, and the Aran Islands. Renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent dining, and outstanding service, it’s a popular choice for staycations, conferences, and leisure breaks alike, blending coastal tranquillity with easy access to city life.

Location: O'Domhnaill's Guesthouse - Lig Do Scíth 

What is it? - A family-run guesthouse with all the comforts of home.
Best for: families, couples, solo travellers.
Standout features: private bathrooms in every room, garden and terrace with picnic area, BBQ facilities.
Address: Carrowroe South, Carraroe South, H91 YW74
Book your stay here 
Only 2.6km from Coral Beach, O'Domhnaill's Guesthouse – Lig Do Scíth is a charming, family-run retreat offering homely comfort and modern conveniences. Perfect for all kinds of holidaymakers, the guesthouse features ensuite rooms, a garden and terrace, picnic and barbecue areas, and both Continental and full Irish breakfast options. Guests can enjoy cycling, fishing, hiking, or walking tours in the surrounding area, then return to relax in the shared lounge or garden, making it a cosy and convenient base for exploring Galway and the coastline.

Location: An Crúiscín Lán Hotel

What is it? - A family-run sea-front hotel along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Best for: families, solo travellers, couples.
Standout features: rooms with sea views, Spiddal angling school, all rooms are en-suite, restaurant.
Address: Spiddle West, An Spidéal, H91 F853
Book your stay here 
In Spiddal village along the Wild Atlantic Way, An Crúiscín Lán Hotel offers cosy, comfortable accommodation just steps from the Old Pier and beach with panoramic views of Galway Bay, The Burren, and the Aran Islands. The hotel has 14 ensuite rooms (doubles, twins, and family rooms) all with free Wi-Fi, digital TV, and tea and coffee facilities. With traditional pubs, music, and craft shops right on the doorstep, plus free parking on-site, this welcoming hotel is perfectly placed for exploring Spiddal’s charm and the wider Connemara coastline.

above: Ballynahinch Castle Hotel 

Mid Connemara: Recess, Lough Inagh, Ballynahinch, Maam Cross, Screebe

Places of Interest; Lough Inagh, Derryclare Lough & Derryclare Nature Reserve, Roundstone Bog, Screebe Waterfall, Glengowla Mines, Quiet Man Bridge, Hill of Doon Viewing Point, Derrybeg Bridge, Mám Éan statue of St. Patrick, Castlekirk. 

Luxury: Ballynahinch Castle Hotel & Estate 

What is it? - A stunning castle hotel in the heart of Connemara.
Best for: couples/romantic getaways, (self-catering accommodation),
Standout features: four-poster beds, interconnecting rooms, guided tours & walks, the walled garden, picnics, woodland sauna, falconry, fly fishing & tutorials, fisherman’s boat trip, pub, restaurant and terrace.
Address: Ballynahinch, Recess, H91 F4A7
Book your stay here 
Set on a 700-acre estate of woodlands, rivers, and trails, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is a luxury retreat with an authentic yet unpretentious charm. Overlooking its famous salmon fishery and framed by the Twelve Bens mountains, the castle offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites, along with an award-winning restaurant led by acclaimed chef Danni Barry. Guests can enjoy guided walks, fishing, and outdoor adventures, or simply relax by one of six open log fires. Perfectly located on the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s also an ideal base for exploring Connemara’s stunning highlights, from Killary Harbour to the Sky Road.

Budget: Ben Lettery Hostel 

What is it? - A self-catering hostel with onsite glamping accommodation.
Best for: backpackers, solo travellers, groups, hikers.
Standout features: glamping bell tents, cabin, walking & cycling maps, travel shop.
Address: Ballynahinch, Connemara
Book your stay here 
Just a ten-minute drive from Clifden, Ben Lettery Hostel offers a perfect base for adventurers seeking both comfort and the great outdoors. Nestled between Maam Cross and Clifden, the hostel caters to backpackers, hikers, solo travellers, and groups, with options ranging from double rooms to 8-bed dorms, and the ability to book the entire hostel for up to 42 guests! Their other accommodation option, The Hollows glamping bell tents, blends rugged Connemara camping with modern comforts, making it ideal for unpredictable Irish weather. With walking and cycling maps, a travel shop, and a welcoming, social atmosphere, Ben Lettery is all about great value, great vibes, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

above: Screebe House

Luxury: Screebe House

What is it? - One of Ireland’s finest Victorian country homes.
Best for: couples/romantic getaways.
Standout features: every room has either bay or garden views, fine dining restaurant, the spa lodge with heated indoor salt-water swimming pool, fitness area, a large sauna, seaweed baths, steam room, treatment room and an outdoor hot tub, bike hire, tours - hiking, photography, kayaking, hunting, fly-fishing.
Address: Rosmuc, Connemara, Screebe, H91 X5WY
Book your stay here 
Originally built in 1872 as a fishing lodge and lovingly restored by the Burkart family in 2010, Screebe House is one of Ireland’s finest Victorian country homes. With open fireplaces, high ceilings, and heritage décor, the house exudes timeless elegance while offering modern luxury and comfort. Set in the idyllic surrounds of Camus Bay, guests can enjoy breathtaking scenery, explore Connemara’s wild landscapes, or simply relax with a book or a glass of wine by the fire. Perfect for those seeking tranquillity, charm, and easy access to outdoor adventures, Screebe truly lives up to its name, meaning “destination” in Irish.

Unique: Lough Inagh Lodge Hotel

What is it? - A four-star Connemara hotel on the shores of Lough Inagh.
Best for: weddings, pet-friendly, special occasions, golf enthusiasts.
Standout features: lake views, mountain scenery, on-site fine dining, activities on-site, open log fires in the library, oak-panelled bar.
Address: Connemara, Recess, H91 E3Y8
Book your stay here 
Set on the shores of Lough Inagh, Lough Inagh Lodge Hotel is surrounded by the majestic Twelve Bens and Mam Turks mountains.The hotel combines old-world charm with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy spectacular lake and mountain views, on-site fine dining, and easy access to hill walking, fly fishing, cycling, and golf. All 13 ensuite rooms (4 deluxe and 9 superior) are elegantly furnished, named after famous Irish wordsmiths, and offer cosy seating areas and contemporary comforts, making this a serene base to explore Connemara or simply unwind in nature.

Luxury: Currarevagh House

What is it? - A Victorian country house known for its tranquillity.
Best for: weddings, couples/romantic getaways, solo travellers, corporates.
Standout features: eco-friendly practices, wood fired sauna, private walks, picnics, clinker larch boats for guests use, bar billiards table, croquet on the lawn, hatch bar dating from 1890.
Address: Glann Rd, Glann, Oughterard, H91 X3C2
Book your stay here 
Set in 180 acres of private parkland and woodland on the shores of Lough Corrib, Currarevagh House is a gracious early Victorian country house offering a tranquil and intimate escape. The property blends old-fashioned charm with exceptional personal service, eco-friendly practices, and luxurious comfort. Guests can enjoy a wood-fired sauna, lakeside walks, beautifully maintained gardens, and bespoke dining experiences. Run by the same family for 130 years, Currarevagh offers a warm, authentic welcome, a sense of timeless elegance, and an undisturbed natural setting perfect for relaxing, exploring Connemara, Galway, and beyond.

Main image courtesy of Ballynahinch Castle Hotel.