Introducing Connemara
Think of the best crumble you've ever had, one with a craggy crust that accumulates hollows of perfect flavour. Similarly, the filigreed coast of the Connemara Peninsula is endlessly pleasing, with pockets of sheer delight awaiting discovery.
The name Connemara (Conamara) is Irish for 'Inlets of the Sea' and the coastal roads bear this out as they wind around small bays and coves, some with hidden beaches. A succession of seaside hamlets entice.
Connemara's interior is a kaleidoscope of rusty bogs, lonely valleys and shimmering black lakes. At its heart are the Maumturk Mountains and the pewter-tinged quartzite peaks of the Twelve Bens mountain range, with a network of scenic hiking and biking trails. Everywhere the land is laced by the seemingly endless stone walls you're glad you didn't have to build. It's dazzling at any time of day but especially when the sky and waters sparkle azure, the hills shine green, and bright yellow blooms abound.
Activities in Connemara
Clifden & Around
Connemara's 'capital', Clifden (An Clochán), is an appealing Victorian-era country town with an amoeba-shaped oval of streets offering evocative strolls.
Oughterard & Around
The writer William Makepeace Thackeray sang the praises of the small town of Oughterard (Uachtar Árd), saying, 'A more beautiful village can scarcely be seen'.
Connemara destination guides
Letterfrack & Around
Founded by Quakers in the mid-19th century, Letterfrack (Leitir Fraic) is ideally situated for exploring Connemara National Park, Renvyle Point and Kylemore Abbey.
Hotels in Connemara
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Connemara
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Connemara
Inishbofin
By day sleepy Inishbofin is a haven of tranquillity.
Need to know
Entertainment in Connemara
Roundstone
Clustered around a boat-filled harbour, Roundstone (Cloch na Rón) is one of Connemara's gems.
Shopping in Connemara