Connemara is Ireland at its most majestic, wild, and beautiful. An essential stop along the Wild Atlantic Way, spend a few days, a week or even a month here. You might never want to leave!

Connemara

 

Easy sunday stroll to Diamond Hill with @lolkav87 😜 #connemara #connemaranationalpark #diamondhill #wildatlanticway #sunday #hiking

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The very name Connemara means” inlets of the sea”. This gives some indication as to just how stunning and rugged the countryside is. The Irish have been coming here for years for “holiday” and it is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise.The famous bogs and fields, gorgeous lakes, and rocky shores make it Ireland at its most quintessential. It is a beautiful place to not only drive through, but also to spend some time. There’s plenty to see and do here, and these are just 10 of the top things to do in Connemara during your next vacation.

1. Visit Connemara National Park

 

Aí você entende que Deus não demora, ele Capricha! Entenda que sempre depois da tempestade vem o arco íris e que as coisas que você passa estão te preparando para um futuro INCRÍVEL!!! #connemara #connemaranationalpark #irlanda #ireland #vidadeintercambista #intercambio #intercambionairlanda #galway #galwaygirl

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Connemara National Park has an area of some 2,957 hectares, within which are mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Opened to the public as a park in 1980, admission is free, and an interpretive centre explains some of the things to see and do there. Hiking is of course a popular activity in the Park, and there are great views of the ‘Twelve Bens’, a series of peaks over 1500 feet. The park is open daily between 9.00am and 5.30pm all year through.

2. Galway City at the Weekend

 

summer daze

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During the weekends a visit to Galway city is highly recommended. The medieval cobblestone streets seem to fill with life, and there is a mix of entertainers, music and markets. Highlights of a visit to Galway city include visiting the Spanish Arch and of course tasting the local cuisine, especially the traditional Irish cheeses. Don’t forget to have a pint of the local beers either. Galway Hooker is a favourite in the city.

3. Explore Kylemore Abbey

 

A magnificent Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of a former castle. The abbey was founded for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I. It is one of Ireland’s best loved tourist attractions @kylemoreabbey #KylemoreAbbey #Connemara #Ireland #castles #castlesworld

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The Benedictine Monastery of Kylemore was founded by Nuns fleeing the First World War in 1920, and built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle. The estate has an almost fairytale feel to it, and the castle is iconic. Take a tour here through the grounds and gardens, and learn about the bats in the belfry, as well as the somewhat tragic story of the families involved with the castle leading up to when it became an Abbey.

4. Visit Clifden

 

The churches of Clifden. Thank you @galwayviewfinder for this image #clifden #churhes #galway #wildatlanticway #landscape #ireland #clifdenartsfestival

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The charming coastal town of Clifton is the largest town in the region, and some people often refer to it as the capital of Connemara. There are plenty of boutique shops as well as authentic pubs for food and live music. Find yourself a cozy pub and listen to some traditional music whilst joining in the craic!

5. Visit the Aran Islands

 

@kiwi_exploring_the_world ・・・ ======> Panoramic image!! Please swipe to see Dún Aonghasa and Inismór. • #ireland #aranislands #dunaonghasa #inishmore #ireland_gram #inismor #galway #instaireland #dúnaonghasa #ig_ireland #visitireland #discoverireland #cliffs #loveireland #photography #inismór #insta_ireland #igersireland #atlanticocean #wanderireland #loves_ireland #wildatlanticway #landscape #explore #travelireland #irelandtravel #countygalway #cliff #huaweicreatives

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Many people choose to visit the nearby Aran Islands on a day trip, but we would recommend visiting for a few days or longer. Despite the daytrippers there is a feeling of stepping back in the past when you land. The locals are relaxed yet welcoming, and happy to give you directions if you need some when exploring the island. As no cars can be taken over on the ferries, it is best to get around the island either by hiking or bicycling. The Aran islands are a great destination for anyone that enjoys the outdoors life, and some excellent accommodation can be found at Aran Islands Camping and Glamping. The unique glamping pods based on the old stone hut design, offer comfortable lodging in an outdoor setting all the year around.

6. Ride a Connemara Pony

 

Chillin’ with Sparkle 🍀🐎🌊☀️💚

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The hardy breed of pony known as the Connemara Pony has really adapted to the tough and varied terrain of the Connemara region. As beautiful to watch in the fields as they are to ride, pony riding sessions are available at a number of equestrian centers in Connemara, offering a unique way to explore the rugged landscape.

7. Enjoy time on the beach in the sun… No promises!

 

🌊👌 #whitesandbeach #whitesand #beach #ireland #irishbeach #connemara #connemarabeach #bluesea #cloudysky #clouds #beautifulday #bluelagoonbeach #paradise #perfect

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If you are lucky enough to be visiting Connemara on a nice warm sunny day, you should spend some time on one of the beaches! There are some very pretty sand beaches nestled between the rocky coastline if you know where to look. Ballyconneely’s Coral Strand, Dog’s Bay and Gurteen beaches are all great examples. Even if the weather isn’t ideally suited for soaking up the sun, they are still worth visiting, as they are certainly very photogenic.

8. Whilst you are at the seaside…

 

No words needed…. #roundstone #odowds #odowdsbar #connemara #wildatlanticway #galway #galwayfood #locationlocationlocation #ireland

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Ireland has some pretty seaside villages and Roundstone is amongst the prettiest. It has been the location of many different films due to its brightly painted pubs and incredible coastal views. There’s no better place in Ireland to enjoy a pint and some seafood such as mussels or seafood chowder, and you can also visit some craft shops, particularly inside the Franciscan Monastery.

9. High tea in a castle

 

Thank you to Maria McCormick for sending in this wonderful photograph taken during her stay last week #Connemara #scenery #Ballynahinch #countygalway #ireland #ballynahinchcastle

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The fairytale Ballnyahinch Castle has been converted into a remarkable four-star hotel. You can either choose to stay the night, or simply pop in for high tea or a drink by the fireplace. Set in grounds of over 450 acres, you can stroll along the paths from the Lake and Owenmore River. The 12 Bens mentioned earlier can be viewed from here, with Ben Lettery being the most prominent.

10. Killary Fjord

 

This view rocks. Like Ireland. You’re looking at the Killary Fjord famous for its shellfish and Killary Sheep Farm (somewhere on the left), where we were. . “Perfect Harmony” . “All things exist here In perfect harmony. People, things, elements — You don’t see this normally. You just stare at it, Your heart slowly skips a beat. Your mind has no other choice, But to admit defeat. There is such a beauty That one cannot comprehend, Not every day you find it Just around the bend.” (own) . “Tökéletes egység” . “Itt mindennek rendje van: Egy tökéletes egység. Ember, dolog s az elemek — Ilyet soha nem látsz, tessék! Ámulsz csak mélán, S a szíved is kihagy. Elmédnek nincs esélye, Azt sem tudod, ki vagy. Van ám olyan szépség, melyet meg nem érthetünk. De mindig ott, ahol az életterünk.” (saját) . . . . . . . #travelinspiration #inspiringplaces #instapoem #igpoets #perfectharmony #thisviewtho #natureart #panoramic #killaryfjord #countygalway #connemara #bestdestinations #loveireland #visitireland #irelandroadtrip #alwaysonthego #ontheroadagain #roadtrippers #travelholic #travelphotographer #landscape_lover #landscapephotography #cloudysky #topirelandphoto #ireland_gram #mountainsarecalling #sonyalpha6000

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At 16 kilometers in length, and a depth of 45 metres in places, Killary fjord is in fact Ireland’s only fjord. It is best seen on a Fjord boat tour which reveals the dramatic landscape at its finest. The boat tour takes about 90 minutes, and is an enjoyable way to soak up the beauty of the surrounding Connemara countryside. Another option is to follow it via road, stopping off in the small towns and villages along the way.

More information

For more information on what to see and do in Connemara, as well as how to get to the Aran Islands, contact Aran Camping and Glamping. We will be happy to share our knowledge of the local area, and of course encourage you to visit Inis Mor, the largest and most beautiful of the magnificent Aran Islands!

Many people think that you can only go glamping during the summer months, but there are 3 more seasons to the year! With glamping sites open all the year around, you can enjoy the great outdoors whenever you want.

Glamping is for all seasons

Everybody loves their summer holiday, and wants to make the most of the best weather possible, but summer is not the only season in which to take a vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts know that the spring and autumn months are excellent times of year for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, and photographers love exploring the countryside in winter for those unique, crispy shots.

Glamping sites around the world stay open throughout the year, and Aran Islands Camping and Glamping is no exception. Our thoughtfully designed glamping units are warm and cosy thanks to their heating systems, and we welcome visitors keen on staying on Inis Mor during the winter months.

Not sure if glamping at any other time of the year than summer is for you? Let’s take a look at each season, and see if we can persuade you!

Winter

Winter is not a season that most people associate with camping. Perhaps it is because of distant memories from their childhood of trying to stay warm in the cold and the rain in an inadequate tent. Glamping is of course completely different to camping!

There is no need to worry about being cold or uncomfortable at night, as the special ‘Cochlans’  or ‘Tigin’s’ on Inis Mor are snug, warm, and cosy. The heating system will ensure you are never cold, and you will be completely shielded from the elements once inside.

This then gives you the perfect base from which to explore the island during the winter months. With far fewer tourists, it’s also an ideal time to really experience island life as the locals do. You can visit the main attractions as normal, but make sure to spend some time in front of the fireplaces of a pub or two, listen to some live music, and get chatting with people. It will feel a world away from your regular life!

 

Spring

New life starts to appear during the spring. The days start getting longer, the temperatures gradually improve, and flowers start to appear. If you had made a New Year’s resolution to be more active, Spring is the season where you can quite literally spring into action!

In addition to being able to get some hiking done, Spring is also the start of the festival season on the island. You can check out our other blog post about festivals on the Aran Islands, and see if you can time your holiday to coincide with one! The St. Patrick’s Day Parade (although technically in winter) is certainly one not to miss, and takes place on March 17th. Some people have described this as the most Irish thing you will ever see. You will have to experience it for yourself, and let us know what you think!

Summer

Of course, summer is the most popular time to visit the Aran Islands. This is when the majority of the day-trippers come over to Inis Mor, and also when the greater numbers of tourists seeking accommodation arrive. Aran Camping and Glamping is in full swing at this time of year, and it is advisable to ensure that you book your glamping accommodation well in advance.

All of the island’s main attractions are open, and the long summer days provide plenty of time to see them all. Explore the ancient stone fortresses, discover the locations of the Puffing Holes, take a look at the Worm Hole, and cycle from one end of the island to the other. You’ll love your time on Inis Mor during the summer, and you are likely to get some decent beach time!

Autumn

Finally, we come to the autumn, a time when many families choose to take their last vacation together during the half-term period. Nature is at her finest in the autumn, with a changing of colours and misty landscapes.

Wandering around the island on a fine autumn day really makes you feel at one with nature, and being able to return to the comfortable lodging at the glamping site is a just reward for an active day. You might still be able to have the last meals of the year outside on Inis Mor in the autumn, and enjoy a glass of wine or two underneath the stars.

What to do on Inis Mor in all 4 seasons

The island is open for locals and visitors alike all the year through. The main highlights and things to do on the island include:

Visiting Dun Aengus (Dun Aonghasa)

A stone fort positioned on a cliff edge, and semi-circular in design. There are spectacular views of the fort itself, the coastline, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Dún Dúchathair (Black Fort)

Similar in design and style to Dun Aengus, but much less visited. It is a good place to visit on bicycle as part of a tour of the island.

The Worm Hole

A curious natural rectangle carved out of the rock below a cliff, which looks a little like a swimming pool. Red Bull holds a cliff-diving championship here. Don’t try it yourself though!

Aran Sweater Market

Where else in the world would you buy a quality Aran sweater from?!

The Puffing Holes

Ask the locals for direction to the Puffing Holes. Water is forced up by the pressure of waves from sea level, and spouts out in large plumes. It’s quite a sight to see, but don’t stand too close, or you might get caught by surprise!

Inis Mor Camping and Glamping

Whatever time of year you decide to visit Inis Mor, we are sure you will have an enjoyable and memorable time. If you would like to find out more about the island and how to book a glamping pod, contact us today, and we will be more than happy to be of assistance.

Are you thinking of visiting Galway City in Ireland? Let’s take a look at some of the top things to see and do there.

 

All signs point to Christmas in the Latin Quarter.. . . . . #LatinQuarterGalway #ShopStreetGalway #Galway #GalwayCity #Ireland #Christmaslights #Christmas #KingsHead #latinquarterchristmaslights #Evergreen #ItsBeginningToLookALotLikeChristmas #ThisIsGalway #VisitGalway #VisitIreland #DiscoverGalway #DiscoverIreland #TourismIreland #GalwayTourism #ceilingoflights #CladdaghRing

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Charming Galway is an historic city located on the West Coast of Ireland, and an essential stop when traveling along the Wild Atlantic way. A popular tourist destination, Galway city has a lot to offer. With a youthful and even Bohemian atmosphere, this really is a place you need to spend time in if you want to soak up the atmosphere.

 

Our amazing troupe at #StPatricksDay in #Galway this afternoon! 📷: Christine Costolloe

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Unsurprisingly Galway has a lot to see and do. We’ve put together 10 of the best things to do in Galway city during your next visit.

 

Galway.. always in my heart 💚 #galway #streets #ireland🇮🇪 #irelandaily #irelandpassion #lastnight #sadness #galwaygirl #christmaslights #pubs#shopstreetgalway #wanderlust #best#experience#ever #dublin#tomorrow

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1. Take a walking tour around Galway City

 

#galway #galwaycity #galwaycityphotographs #eyresquare #pádraicóconaire #padraicoconaire #walkingaround #walkingtour

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Perhaps the best way to experience everything that Galway city has to offer is by taking a walking tour. In the company of a local guide you will get to see all the main sights and also get an insight into what life is like here as a local. Along the way you’re sure to pass by most of the iconic sites which include the Cathedral, Eyre Square and of course the Spanish Arch. A walking tour of Galway city is also a good way to orientate yourself and plan out what to see and do if you’re spending more than a single day there.

2. Visit the Spanish Arch

 

Happy Friday! ⛵️Photo: Orla Buckley. #galway #galwaycity #westofireland #ireland #claddagh #happyfriday #weekend #summer #august #nature #photooftheday

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The Spanish Arch is perhaps the most iconic of Galway’s landmarks. Constructed in 1584, it overlooks the River Corrib, and was once used to get to the quays from the town. In fact it was part of Galway’s medieval wall system, and in Galway’s trading heyday a lot of shipping passed to and fro to unload goods from Spanish and Portuguese ships. When Cromwell conquered Galway in the 17th century, the port lost its importance, and today the Spanish Arch is all that remains of the walls. No trip to Galway is complete without taking at least one selfie here!

3. Cruising on the River Corrib

 

Comórtas an Aoine ar Facebook #RosnaRún ! Friday Competition time #Win #CorribPrincess #Galway #Tickets over on our Facebook page

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A river boat cruises The River Corrib and sails along the river with lush countryside surrounding it to the left and right. During the cruise you will pass by ancient castles and ruins, and of course you can enjoy an Irish coffee on board!

4. Check out the Galway Hooker boats

 

Swanning around! Thanks to Orla Buckley for this shot. #galway #galwaycity #westofireland #ireland #swans #summer #july #photooftheday

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A type of traditional fishing boat known as the Galway Hooker was in common usage in the 18th century. Today many of these boats have been restored by enthusiasts, and some can even be seen during a yearly festival. If you are a beer connoisseur you might also notice a locally brewed beer of the same name in almost every pub in the city.

5. Beer and music

 

Frankie Gavin Johnny Ringo and Brian Mcgrath playing yesterday in Tig Coili #dedannan #tigcoili #tigchoili #bestpubingalway #traditionalirishmusicgalway #traditionalmusicgalway #dedannanreunion

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As we’ve already mentioned beer once, we should probably mention that there is plenty of traditional music to be enjoyed with it in Galway City! Quay Street is the most popular place to go for pubs, restaurants and cafes.

 

🎭🤹‍♀️ It’s a fair bit colder tonight ❄️❄️❄️ Repost from @mcwhaaat It’s exactly two degrees out and this barefoot guy with a man bun has almost set himself and the audience on fire twice. Cheers. ❤️ If you want me to show any of your videos, please tag me 🎻🤹‍♂️ #xmas #weihnachten #market #keller #bier #supportgalwaybuskers #galway #galway2020 #ireland #buskers #streetperformer #arts #music #bohemian #irishmusic #bordfailte #galwaygirl #heartofgalway #instaireland #thewildatlanticway #instaireland #latinquartergalway #lovinggalway #welovegalway

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The sounds of traditional live music fill the air in places such as The Spanish Arch Hotel and the Quays. Enjoy a Guinness or Galway Hooker and join in the craic!

6. Treat your tastebuds

 

Biteclub Disco Brunch Garden Party is happening right now over on Abbeygate St. Get in touch with them for ticket availability on the Poitin Masterclass that’s on later! galwayfood #thisisgalway #bia #food #longweekend #wildatlanticway #ireland #galwayfoodfestival #gff17 #thisisirishfood #galway #biteclub #brunch #gardenparty #discobrunch

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Be sure to treat your taste buds during your visit to Galway City. Farmhouse cheeses at Sheridan’s, the amazing McCambridge food emporium, and the incredible bread from the Griffins Bakery which has been in operation since 1876 will ensure you never go hungry!

7. Explore Kirwan’s Lane

 

Neighbourhood watch, cats got your back! @yes_flowers @thesheepgalway @latinquartergalway @galway_now @galway2020 #shopdisplay #bike #bikes #blackcat #blackcats #kirwinslane #latinquarter #claddagh #localshop #localflorist #ilovemytown #wildatlanticway #galwayartist #galwaygirl #photography #photographer #streetphotography #streetstyle #streetart #streetview

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Kirwan’s Lane is named after one of Galway’s 14 so called ‘tribes’. The Kirwans had helped develop Galway into a busy commercial center during the 1500s, and so it is only fitting the lane has been restored, pumping new life into the city once more. Enjoy your time here wandering along, looking at the cafes, craft shops, and studios.

8. Spend some time at the Galway City Museum

If you really want to get to know about the city, you should spend some time at the Galway City Museum. Here, you can learn about the city’s history which stretches all the way back to the Norman invasion. There are a number of exhibitions both permanent and temporary which showcase the city and surrounding area’s heritage and archaeology. Spread out over three floors, the museum contains numerous artifacts, some religious items and an interesting maritime collection. It’s certainly worth a good hour or so of your time.

9. Eyre Square

 

Love Christmas in Galway. Some vibe.. #galway #funtimes #ireland #travelireland #xmas #market #eyresquare

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The chances are that you will pass by Eyre Square more than once during your stay in Galway city. Also known as the John F Kennedy Memorial Square, the two major landmarks here are the Browne Doorway and the Quincentennial Fountain. As a pedestrianised area, it is a central focal point from where to orientate yourself, and a nice place to simply take some time out to enjoy a nice sunny day.

10. Galway Cathedral

 

#Repost @mickael.jurado (@get_repost) ・・・ 🇮🇪 Galway Cathedral by night ! (10.08.2017) #galway #irland #irishtrip #igersgalway #cathedral #galwaycathedral #nightphotograhy #longexposure #lumixgx8 #panasonic

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Completed in 1965, Galway Cathedral is the last stone Cathedral to have been built in Europe. It is an impressive sight, and is jointly dedicated to St. Nicholas and Our Lady Assumed into Heaven. The cathedral is of course open to the public and there are Sunday masses.

 

@thewildatlanticway ・・・ Scattered along Ireland’s west coast are a myriad of islands. Hundreds are uninhabited, but on many you’ll meet islanders keeping the culture and traditions of their land alive.picture by @walterbiggins #aranislands #wildatlanticway#loves_ireland #loveireland #wanderireland #inspireireland_#bestirelandpics #discoverireland #irishpassion #ireland_groom #viewireland #Clare #green #cliffs #sea #irishphotographers #photographersofireland #sky#instaireland

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On leaving Galway City….
Galway City is a good place to access the nearby Aran Islands. The regular ferry service leaves from Ros a’ Mhíl just a few miles up the road on a regular timetable that allows for both day trips and overnight stays. Whilst some people choose to visit for a day trip, spending a couple of days or longer on the islands is the perfect way to really get away from everything.

Inis Mor is the largest of the islands, and has a range of accommodation, including the excellent Camping and Glamping site. You could choose between taking your own camping gear or simply reserve one of the unique glamping units for the duration of your stay. Once on the island, you will feel a world away and much closer to nature. If you love the Great Outdoors and getting back to nature, spending some time on the Aran Islands will really help you to complete your Wild Atlantic Way adventure!