Sitting on the west coast of Ireland, and therefore the very edge of Europe itself, is the unspoiled area sometimes referred to as ‘the real emerald of Ireland’, Connemara. Boasting landscapes that range from the tranquil to the dramatic, and encompassing mountains, bogs, beaches and villages, it is a genuinely magnificent setting within which to explore and enjoy the kind of warm welcome the people of Ireland have always been proud of offering to visitors.
Whether you wish to sample the culture and ambience of the villages and towns which nestle within the lush green countryside, get away from it all by exploring the mountains and remote valleys themselves or even take to the water and enjoy the tranquillity of the many islands which sit in the wild and exhilarating Atlantic Ocean, Connemara offers a wealth of experiences and attractions.
Nature in Connemara
The area around Connemara offers stunning examples of rural Ireland at its very best, featuring no fewer than fifty mountains as well as rivers, lochs and bogs. There is so much to discover here amidst the variety of flora and fauna. You can experience the peace and quiet of a stroll through a deserted bog or be exhilarated by the Atlantic waves lashing the long golden beaches of the coastline.
Breathtaking views reward those with the stamina to tackle the peak of Diamond Hill. Sitting in the Connemara National Park, Diamond Hill rises 500 metres above the village of Letterfrack and offers a hill walking experience designed to appeal to hikers with every level of experience. Elsewhere in the National Park, visitors can enjoy a tea room, children’s playground and the chance to interact with the famous Connemara ponies.
Sport in Connemara
You might choose to spend your stay in Connemara relaxing, chatting to the locals and sipping pints of Guinness in the warmth of a genuine Irish pub, but for those of a more energetic and sporting frame of mind, the area offers the chance to sample a wide range of activities.
Golfers can tackle gorgeously landscaped inland courses or the more rugged challenge of links golf.
For those keen on fishing you will be spoilt for choice: you can cast your line in rivers, lochs or the ocean, netting yourself salmon, cod and trout.
The ocean itself is a natural playground in its own right, offering you the chance to explore it by sailing, swimming or scuba diving.
In addition there are miles of roads along which you can cycle through stunning countryside, and fields and hills over which you can walk, run, hike or ride a horse or pony.
Attractions in Connemara
Although the wonder of nature lies at the heart of Connemara’s appeal, it is by no means the end of the story. Stay here and you can sample history in the form of Kylemore Abbey or Clifden Castle, shopping which ranges from traditional Irish knitwear to cutting edge boutique fashion and a cultural scene which encompasses traditional singing and dancing as well as festivals of art, poetry and drama throughout the year.
Staying at Connemara will mean never being stuck for something to do.
