Letterfrack:
Letterfrack is a quaint small village set in the heart of Connemara in direct vicinity to some of Connemara’s main attractions. It is easily accessible from the capital of Clifden which is just a short ten minute drive away. Letterfrack is located at the foot of the Connemara National Park which creates a sense of atmosphere. There are 3 pubs, a grocery shop, hair-dresser and takeaway in Letterfrack Village. Veldons Seafarer, Cloverfox and The Lodge serve delicious food throughout the day and in the evening time. Don’t forget to make a trip to Avoca! Situated just outside Letterfrack village!
For less experienced walkers and families, the Diamond Hill Trail in the Connemara National Park is well sign-posted and highly accessible and those who make it to the top are rewarded with expansive panoramic vistas across Connemara. There are four trails in Connemara National Park. A must when you visit Connemara. There is also a lovely on-site coffee shop and great playground for the kids.
Kylemore:
Irelands most visited tourist attraction – Set in the dramatic Connemara landscape, Kylemore Abbey is the no. 1 “must-see” attraction in the west of Ireland. The castle was originally built by Mitchell Henry in 1867 as a romantic gift for his beloved wife. In 1920 the Benedictine Community came to Kylemore and Kylemore castle became Kylemore Abbey. The 1000 Kylemore estate is steeped in history with tales of tragedy and romance, engineering initiatives, model farms, royal visits, spirituality and education.
Visit the estate and experience the Victorian atmosphere of the restored rooms of the Abbey, miniature Gothic Church and Head Gardener’s House. There are many nature trails, woodland and lakeshore walks and a children’s play trail waiting to be discovered. Explore the magical 6 acre Victorian walled garden where onyx Victorian verities of flowers and vegetables are grown.
Leenane:
Looking for adventure? Leenane is the place for you! Here you can participate in the following activities:
– Take a cruise along Killary Harbour, Irelands only Fjord!
– Learn how to dive at Scuba Dive West
– Spend the day at The Killary Adventure Centre! Activities on offer include rock climbing, abseiling, hill walking, bungee jumps, orienteering, archery, kayaking, sailing, wind-surfing and water-skiing
Leenane is also home to some very lovely pubs and eateries. Here you can also visit the Killary Sheep Farm!
Renvyle Peninsula
Renvyle peninsula is located at the far western edge of Ireland and is a place in which to enjoy the fresh sea air, peace, beauty and closeness of nature. Amidst this alluring landscape, you will find Derryinver Quay and Ballinakill Harbour, one of the loveliest harbours in the world, from where you can enjoy a scenic coastal cruise. The peninsula has been described by Augustus John as “the most beautiful landscape in the world” and it has inspired some renowned works of art by Yeats, Gogarty and Oscar Wilde.