MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Connemara

Day Trips from Connemara

Connemara County Galway, Ireland Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

These locations are easily reached from Connemara for a rewarding day trip. Consider booking your excursions in advance through GetYourGuide's day trip section for convenience and peace of mind.

Explore Inishmore (Inis Mór), Inishmaan (Inis Meáin), or Inisheer (Inis Oírr). Discover ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, miles of stone walls, and traditional island life.

Aran Islands

  • Take a ferry from Rossaveal or Doolin.
  • Tours from Galway often combine ferry and island bus travel.
  • Independent travel allows bike rental for self-paced exploration.
  • A full-day excursion (8-10 hours).

Explore More

Galway City

Explore Eyre Square, the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, its lively pubs, and street performers in the Latin Quarter.

Details

  • Drive or use Bus Éireann / Citylink.
  • Half to full day for exploration.
  • A good starting point for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

Westport County Mayo

A lively and attractive Georgian town north of Connemara, near Croagh Patrick and the Great Western Greenway cycling trail.

Details

  • Approximately 1.5 hours north of Clifden.
  • A full day to explore the town or cycle the Greenway.
  • Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain, nearby.

Natural Escapes & 10.3 Cultural Excursions

Iconic Natural Wonders

  • Cliffs of Moher: Iconic sea cliffs, over 200 meters high.
  • Part of UNESCO Global Geopark. (2-2.5 hrs from Clifden)
  • The Burren: Unique karst limestone landscape.
  • Features ancient dolmens and rare flora. (Adjacent to Cliffs)

Local Heritage & Industry

  • Connemara Marble Factory: Learn about distinctive green marble crafting.
  • Shop for authentic marble products. (Near Galway City)
  • Glengowla Mines: Explore a former lead and silver mine.
  • Underground tours on 19th-century mining life. (Near Oughterard)

Multi-Day Extensions

  • Wild Atlantic Way:Extend north towards Mayo & Donegal.
  • South Towards Clare & Kerry:Continue south for iconic landscapes.
  • North Route:Connemara to Westport, then onto Donegal.
  • South Route:Connemara to Galway, Cliffs, then to Kerry.
  • Logical Next Destinations:Donegal for wild coastal scenery.
  • Transportation Connections:Good road networks link these regions.
  • Buses:Available, but a car is preferred for flexibility.
  • Cong Village:Famous for "The Quiet Man" and Ashford Castle.

Travel Tip:

For longer journeys, a car provides the greatest freedom to discover hidden gems along Ireland's stunning routes.

More Beyond Connemara

Extend your Irish exploration with additional regional discoveries.

Killary Fjord

Ireland's only fjord, a stunning natural inlet perfect for cruises and water activities.

Kylemore Abbey

A Benedictine monastery set against a mountain and lake, with a beautiful Victorian Walled Garden.

Diamond Hill

A popular hiking trail in Connemara National Park with panoramic views.

Connemara National Park

A large expanse of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands in west County Galway.

Park Features

  • Part of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
  • Various hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
  • Home to Connemara Ponies, red deer, and diverse birdlife.

Roundstone Village

A picturesque coastal village known for its traditional music scene and beautiful beaches.

Village Highlights

  • Proximity to Dog's Bay and Gurteen Beach.
  • Home of Roundstone Music & Crafts, makers of traditional bodhráns.
  • Excellent seafood restaurants and pubs.

Other Local Gems

Clifden Town:The "Capital of Connemara," with shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Sky Road:A scenic coastal loop offering panoramic views near Clifden.
Clifden Castle:Ruined Gothic manor, a short walk from Clifden.
Derrygimlagh Bog:Historical site of Alcock & Brown's transatlantic landing.
Maam Valley:A quiet, serene valley with traditional villages and a scenic drive.
Quiet Man Bridge:Filming location from "The Quiet Man" near Cong.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: Numerous trails for all levels, including Diamond Hill.
  • Cycling: Connemara Loop, Sky Road, Great Western Greenway.
  • Kayaking: On Killary Fjord or along the coast.
  • Horse Riding: Available at various equestrian centers.
  • Fishing: Lakes and rivers teem with salmon and trout.

Discover the West

Connemara provides a great starting point for wider exploration of the Irish west.

Art & Craft Trail

Connemara has a arts and crafts scene, with local artists inspired by the landscape.

Artistic Exploration

  • Visit art galleries in Clifden.
  • Discover handmade crafts in Roundstone.
  • See marble products at the Connemara Marble Factory.

Local Food Experiences

Enjoy the freshest seafood and traditional Irish dishes throughout the region.

Culinary Delights

  • Fresh seafood in coastal towns like Clifden.
  • Traditional pub food and lively music sessions.
  • Try Connemara Smoked Salmon.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, Connemara holds many less-traveled spots.

Off the Beaten Path

  • Explore smaller coastal villages.
  • Discover quiet beaches and coves.
  • Hike less-known trails in the Twelve Bens.

Photography Hotspots

Connemara's dramatic landscapes and changing light provide endless photographic opportunities.

Capture the Beauty

  • Sunrise over Diamond Hill.
  • Sunset from Sky Road.
  • Reflections in the many lakes and fjords.

Special Events & Festivals

Connemara hosts various events throughout the year, celebrating its culture, food, and heritage.

Clifden Arts Festival

Ireland's oldest arts festival, usually in September.

Clifden Community Connemara Pony Show

Celebrates the native Connemara Pony, in August.

Clifden Oyster & Seafood Festival

A September festival for seafood enthusiasts.

Event Planning:

Check local tourism websites for up-to-date festival dates and times when planning your trip.
← Previous
Things to Do in Connemara
← Back to Connemara
Next →
Connemara Travel Tips

Next Up: Connemara Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Continue to Connemara Travel Tips