They say when you visit Connemara you “experience the real beauty of Ireland”. It’s located in the north west corner of County Galway and is an area of desolate beauty, incredible scenery and some interesting attractions, which combine to make Connemara a really beautiful place and a place close to the hearts of Irish people and visitors alike. Read on to find out what makes this corner of Ireland so special…

The distinct region of Connemara can be found in the north west corner of County Galway. Connemara is considered to be the land west of Lough Corrib. On the north side of Connemara is Killary Harbour, the south side Galway Bay and the west side the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting to Connemara is pretty simple. Just take the N59 from Galway city to Clifden town and you’ll drive right through the heart of Connemara countryside. Another popular route to take is the coastal route or the R336 from Galway city. This route is also known as the Connemara Loop - a 45km breathtaking drive of ever-changing landscape and scenery.

Probably the best way to explore Connemara is by car. With a car you can stop where and when you want and really get off the beaten track. You’ll know you’re in Connemara when you enter a vast beautiful bogland, but as you drive along you’ll notice how the landscape becomes a mixture of rivers, lakes, woodlands, rich meadowlands, rugged hills, dramatic mountains and as you near the coast you’ll stumble across a stunning unpolluted coastline of sandy beaches and blue waters.

You really get the feel that Mother Nature is ‘at home’ in Connemara and with such a beautiful unspoilt landscape, it’s no wonder that it’s a playground for outdoor activities. What better way to admire the scenery and take in the fresh country air than enjoying some horse riding, cycling or hiking in Connemara. Or how about some fishing, golfing, or watersports?

Connemara is also peppered with some very interesting attractions like the Alcock & Brown Memorial, Kylemore Abbey & Walled Victorian Gardens, Connemara History & Heritage Centre in Clifden, Glengowla Mines in Oughterard, Dan O Hara’s Homestead and the 40,000 acre Connemara National Park. You could also visit the set of the film ‘The Field’ in Leenane, which was directed by Jim Sheridan in the 1990′s.

The main town in the Connemara region is Clifden. It’s the quintessential Irish town with lots of quirky shops, restaurants and traditional Irish pubs. Clifden is a great base from which to explore the beauty and heritage of Connemara.

Connemara is the perfect destination if you want to relax and unwind and get away from the stresses of modern day living. It’s a place that will give you a true glimpse of rural Irish life and living. Connemara is a Gaeltacht area, which means it is Irish-speaking. The natives hold Irish culture, heritage and traditions very close to their heart so it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to experience all things Irish.

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Hope you enjoy your visit to the beautiful Connemara region! If you’ve any queries or need help booking accommodation just get in touch.