Trip created by Dawn Rainbolt
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Region: West – Connemara, Burren & Aran Islands
Trip Type: Self Drive
Comfort: Classic
Deposit From €137.50
Difficulty:
All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.
Download ItineraryConnemara is a land of raw, wild beauty. Open spaces, rugged mountains, pristine beaches, tiny inlets, teacup-sized islands and vast bogs await you on this getaway. Connemara is a place to escape from the busy world and enjoy the wonders of nature. While Connemara is one of Ireland’s popular regions, few venture beyond the cultivated trails and visitor centres. On this self drive trip, you’ll explore Connemara’s hidden gems and little-travelled corners.
Using our local knowledge, we’ll offer several suggestions, catered to your group’s ability level and preferences, to create a wonderful, off the beaten path holiday on Ireland’s west coast while you travel at your own pace. Expect rural communities, winding trails, stunning vistas, home-cooked dishes, and layers of history from Neolithic times to present on this idyllic getaway at the ends of the Earth.
This short break is perfect for a weekend escape to the wilds of Ireland’s west coast, or it can be added to a larger trip. Want a bit of city life? Add a Galway extension for the chance to visit one of Ireland’s liveliest cities. Looking for luxury? Upgrade your accommodations or even add on a night in Ireland’s most luxurious castle hotel, Ashford Castle.
From the rural Ireland West (Knock) Airport, pick up your hire car as you get ready for a Connemara adventure. Connemara is one of Ireland’s most wild places, and though certain spots are popular, the region holds many secret gems, perfect for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. After checking in to your cosy hotel, head out to explore one of our favourite – and under-rated – beaches of Connemara. The Connemara experience isn’t complete without ducking into one of the village pubs in Clifden for a pint, some trad music, and if you’re lucky, a bit of the Irish language. (B)
The coasts and mountains of Connemara are wild and spectacular. Though a popular region, few visitors head off the beaten path deeper into the mountains. Today, you have a choice in how you want to explore this amazing region. For those aching to head out to the heart of the hills, opt for a day-long guided hike of the region, customised to suit your fitness level. For those interested in learning more about the region, choose instead a private visit to a working oyster farm in the gorgeous setting of the shores of Connemara, and perhaps taste a few of these local shellfish yourself. Afterwards, you’ll have time for a short hike in the region. No matter which option you choose, you’re sure of stunning views from mountain to sea, fascinating flora and fauna, and a cosy pint at the day’s end.
*Optional Upgrade: Pottery Session
Please see Upgrades below for full details.
From mountains to ocean, today you have a multitude of beaches, coves and inlets to explore. Discover the southern shores of Connemara where we recommend taking your time to find a tiny hidden beach, perhaps dipping your toes in the turquoise waters. If you’re up for adventures further afield, head to the Aran Islands. Inis Mór is the perfect size to explore in a day, and is home to treasures such as the jaw-dropping cliffside prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, 5,00 year old Neolithic tombs, historic ruined churches and a close-knit community where the everyday language is Irish.
*Optional Upgrade: Guided Walk with Archeologist
Please see Upgrades below for full details.
You can choose to extend your stay, perhaps including a night in Galway, or head back to the airport. (B)
*Optional Upgrade: Galway Extension
Please see Upgrades below for full details.
To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this vacation, please complete the form below:
This self drive trip features accommodations chosen for their excellent location, service and comfort in Connemara. Expect small, comfortable and characterful lodgings. You will have the choice between cosy B&Bs or 3-star family-run hotels or guesthouses, with options and in towns or rural communities. Accommodation rooming is a choice of double or twin rooms, which are en-suite with a shower. You will also have the option to upgrade your accommodation standards to deluxe and luxury options in the same region.
Single Rooms
There is no supplement charged to solo travellers. However, if you request a double room for single occupancy, a supplement will be charged.
Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, single supplement can be limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis.
Each morning, enjoy a homemade breakfast of your choice at your accommodation. We will provide local suggestions for lunches and dinners, to be taken according to your own preferences.
Arrival Info
Departure Info
*Day 2 | Pottery Session
Rural Ireland has a strong heritage of crafting, from Aran jumpers to Donegal tweed to west coast pottery. Today, you’ll get the chance to meet a one such local, a ceramicist. Together in this gorgeous setting, you’ll learn how to make your own pottery, perhaps inspired by Connemara’s stunning backdrop.
*Day 3 | Tour With an Archeologist
Ireland has rich tapestry of history going back thousands of years. While on the Aran Islands, bastions of Irish culture, meet up with a fantastic and renowned west coast archeologist who will take you on an enchanting tour through the centuries, interpreting the layers of Irish history all the way back to the Neolithic era 5,000 years ago. Far from the dusty halls of a Victorian museum, trek out into the wilds to learn about history hands on, coming to life through your archeologist guide’s fascinating stories.
Galway Hooker Sailing Experience
The Galway hooker is a traditional boat typical to the Galway Bay. Discover the gems of Connemara’s southern shores by sailboat in this unique experience.
Extend Your Stay in Galway City
Galway – the city of Tribes, as its nicknamed – is one of the west coast’s most vibrant and colourful cities. It is full of pubs, shops, restaurants, markets, street art, and nightlife. For anyone looking for a West Coast of Ireland u201ccityu201d experience, there’s no better place than Galway. We can arrange transport, accommodations, and activities as requested.
Add a Final Night in Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle is one of Ireland’s top three luxury hotels, and is known for its gorgeous setting, historic building, and lush interior. Finish your trip off in the lap of luxury at Ashford Castle where you can avail of activities such as a spa, golf course, hawk walk, and more.
Accommodation Upgrades
After a day spent exploring the raw wilds of Connemara, perhaps you’d like to retire to luxurious settings. Choose to upgrade to deluxe or luxury accommodations to travel in style.
Car Hire
Planning to hire a car here in Ireland? Make your life easier by leaving the car rental process up to us. Just tell us your preferences and we’ll do the rest.
From scuba diving to motorbikes to hiking, Louise is no stranger to adventure! Born and raised in County Sligo, Louise has a love for Ireland’s West Coast u2013 particularly the northwest. Joining the Wilderness Ireland team in 2017 as an Adventure Consultant, Louise is one of the team’s expert trip designers u2013 ready to help you explore Ireland’s wild places! When not at work, Louise can usually be found underwater exploring Ireland’s unique coastlines or else zipping through the countryside on her motorbike!
- Louise Kavanagh
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