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      Self Drive

      Connemara Escape

      Deposit From: €255€255
      Region: West – Connemara, Burren & Aran Islands
      Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

      Accommodation: Classic

      Grading: Your Own Pace

      Carbon Footprint: 35kg ? What does this mean?
      Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

      All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      icon-download Download Itinerary

        From: €990.00 Book Now

        Trip Overview

        Created by: Louise Kavanagh

        Connemara is a land of raw, wild beauty. Rugged mountains, pristine beaches, teacup-sized islands and heather-topped 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. The minimum group size is 2.

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        Day by Day
        Itinerary

        Day 1 – Failte - Welcome to Ireland Read More

        Day 1

        Failte - Welcome to Ireland

        From your arrival airport, pick up your hired car as you get ready for your 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 explore routes less frequented. After checking in to your cosy hotel, head out to explore one of our favourite – and underrated – 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 – after all, Connemara is home to many pockets of the Gaeltacht, communities where Irish is the spoken language.

        Meals Included: None

        Day 2 – The Mountains of Connemara Read More

        Day 2

        The Mountains of Connemara

        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 a private visit to a working oyster farm in the gorgeous setting of the shores of Connemara instead, 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 se the Upgrades section below for full details

        Meals Included: Breakfast

        Day 3 – Connemara From Shore to Island Read More

        Day 3

        Connemara From Shore to Island

        From rugged mountains to the swirling ocean, explore a multitude of Connemara beaches, coves and inlets. 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, 5,000-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 the Upgrades section below for full details.

        Meals Included: Breakfast

        Day 4 – Depart Read More

        Day 4

        Depart

        You can choose to extend your stay, perhaps including a night in Galway, or head back to the airport.

        *Optional Upgrade: Galway Extension

        Please see the Upgrades section below for full details.

        Meals Included: Breakfast

        Download Itinerary

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        Self Drive
        Connemara Escape

        To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

        Fields marked with * are mandatory

        The phone number field is not required but if you would like us to give you a call to help find the trip for you, then enter your telephone number including the country code.

        Book Now

        Price from: €990

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        Self Drive
        Connemara Escape

        For private departure enquiries, please complete the form below:

        Trip Details

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        Accommodation Read More

        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.

        Meals Read More

        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.

        Inclusions Read More

        This trip includes the following:

        • 3 nights accommodation in hand-picked, 3-star family-run guesthouses, B&Bs & boutique hotels
        • Meals: All Breakfast (Meals included indicated as B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
        • Activities stated in the itinerary, incl. Private oyster farm visit or day-long guided hike
        • Detailed itinerary, route notes and map
        • Hiking route suggestions customised to your preferences and ability levels
        • Expert local suggestions for restaurants, activities
        Grading Read More

        At Your Own Pace

        On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle, low-level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready.

        On the other days of the trip, you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

        Travel - Arrival and Departure Read More

        Arrival Info

        Your adventure starts in Connemara where the closest airport is Ireland West Airport Knock. Shannon Airport is a bit further away but is also within a reasonable driving distance to Connemara. Car hire is available at either airport, or opt for one of the Optional Extras we have listed and hire a car with Wilderness Ireland. Of course, you are welcome to use your own car if preferred.

        Departure Info

        Drop off your hire car at the airport on the final day of your trip

        Speak to an Expert

        Louise Kavanagh

        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, particularly the northwest. Louise is one of the team’s expert trip designers, 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.

        Ask Louise a Question

        Difficulty Grades Explained

        At Your Own Pace

        On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle, low-level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready.

        On the other days of the trip, you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

        Find Out More

        Our holidays reviewed
        in your own words

        Wilderness Ireland staff were so helpful from the minute that I enquire do about the trip and throughout the booking process. Nothing too much trouble!
        The trip was so memorable in many ways. Lovely walks,food, accommodation and company.

        John Barrett
        Hiking - The Wicklow Way
        Reviewed on 18/07/2019

        Rated 4.94 out of 5 based on 1,453 reviews

        Read More Reviews
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