Connemara and The Islands, a place known to many for its white sandy beaches, remote walking trails and unique cultural offering is set to reopen this June. Just in time for summer fun and memorable family holidays.
Connemara, a region of great variety, both geographically and culturally, stretches from Galway Bay to Killary Fjord. It also take in the Aran Islands and Inishbofin and lies at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
A new website has been launched (www.connemara.ie) which features a range of special offers for families, short visits and longer stays. Connemara’s diversity is of particular appeal this summer as staycation tourists seek out safe environments due to Covid-19. From stony fields to island life, its people, literary culture, arts, music, outdoor activities and amenities will appeal to many.
Unique Experiences
Connemara’s unique identity is its strongest selling point for those seeking memorable holiday moments this summer. The region is home to the cultural heartland of an Ghaeilge, where old traditions and heritage are at their strongest.
Connemara offers accommodation for all tastes, including glamping, self catering stays, award-winning country houses, five-star hotels and guesthouses. Whether it is a secluded area, an quaint village or at the beach, there is something for everyone. The new Connemara website features a range of accommodation pages and special offers. It links in with local activities and attractions like sea angling, boat cruises and sightseeing tours.
The Top Attractions
Kylemore Abbey
This year, Kylemore Abbey have extended their outdoor dining area at the main Café and the Garden Tea House will be open, providing a takeaway/outdoor service until restrictions allow for indoor dining to resume.
The Kylemore Woodlands Trails and Tales takes visitors into previously unseen parts of Kylemore’s 1,000-acre estate. Visitors can see the rich tapestry of wildlife that thrives in this diverse pocket of Connemara. Admission is free for Under 16’s and there is more than ever for the younger family members to enjoy. There’s also a new Kylemore Icecream cart on site for those sunny summer days.
Killary Fjord Boat Tours
Daily tours are available from June 3rd. This cruise starts at Nancy’s Point, just west of Leenane Village, on the south side of the Killary. From there, the cruise sets off towards the mouth of the Fjord. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Towards the mouth of the fjord is a small island, which has a Victorian range marker on it. This is the point at which dolphins typically emerge if they are in the vicinity. They like to swim alongside the ship, offering spectacular views. A great family adventure to enjoy this summer.
Eile Mental Activity Park
Eile Mental Activity Park, set in beautiful Connemara, is an outdoor activity park offering Laser Tag, Paintball, Archery, Disc (Frisbee) Golf and Orienteering. For ages 10 and over.
The Sea Hare
Winner of ‘Pop-up of the Year’ in 2019, the Seahare restaurant in Cleggan has received national acclaim for its menu style, sourcing the freshest of local ingredients with a quirky twist.
Guests will be served pre-dinner canapés, followed by a delicious starter, local freshly caught main course & a belt-tightening dessert with tea, coffee & truffles.
Wildlands
Wildlands is a new, state-of-the-art outdoor activity centre on the banks of Ballyquirke Lake, near Moycullen. Set in 20 acres of mature woodland, they’ve got a huge range of heart-pumping and adrenaline-racing ventures. Try Zip ‘n’ Trek, Fun Walls, Disc Golf, Bushcraft, Archery, Fairy Trails, a Sports Hall, Yoga & Wellness centre and, much more.
The Islands
Connemara is home to a number of special islands including Inisboffin. Hop on the ferry at Cleggan, enjoy the white sandy green flag beaches, discover Iniswallah Food Bus, and an evening with Stand Up Paddle-boarding SUPBoffin to enjoy the turquoise waters of the island. Top it all off with an unforgettable night in Ireland’s most westerly hotel – The Doonmore. Bike hire is available on the island as well as a great range of accommodation from self catering to guest houses, and hotels.
