Journey into Connemara on a day trip from Galway City and discover a region defined by its history and wild natural beauty. Cross the rugged landscapes, take in the views over the Atlantic, and choose to visit the National Park or Kylemore Abbey. After meeting your driver/guide, set off from Galway City and pass the historical fishing village of Claddagh. Continue to Salthill, home to the famous Blackrock diving tower and the Prom. Soak up the scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way and watch as the mountains rise in the distance. Stop for photos at the tumbling waterfall of Screeb, followed by a stop at Derryclare Lough at the entrance to the Inagh Valley. Arrive in the town of Clifden, the unofficial capital of Connemara. Fall in love with the brightly painted shopfronts, bars, and restaurants that line the narrow streets, and keep an eye out for local crafts and unique gifts. Then, follow the Sky Road route to a viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic Islands. Next, decide on either 3 hours to explore the Connemara National Park or 3 hours to explore the Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens. Option One: Connemara National Park. Nestled in the heart of Connemara, the park covers nearly 3,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expansive bogs, pristine grasslands, and enchanting woodlands. Explore the walking trails at your own pace or set off on a challenging mountain hike towards the summit of Diamond Hill (400 m). There are 4 marked walking trails, each beginning at the visitor center at the foot of the mountain. Option two is Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens. Discover the idyllic Kylemore Abbey, along with its lush surroundings and the serene Pollacapall Lough. Originally built as a private castle, today the Abbey is home to the Benedictine Nuns, and the 1,000-acre Kylemore estate offers the perfect setting for exploration and photography. Following the main stop, weave your way between the majestic Twelve Bens and Maumturk mountains as you cross the Inagh Valley. Take in the breathtaking views of peatlands, mountains, lakes, and glorious countryside where sheep graze freely. Stop for photos in the tiny village of Recess, home to the Connemara Giant. On the return to Galway, pass the famous Quiet Man bridge on your right-hand side.

Enjoy the unspoiled splendor of Connemara’s Killary Fjord on a 1.5-hour catamaran cruise, and discover Ireland’s only fjord. The all-weather, purpose-built Connemara Lady can accommodate up to 150 passengers, and offers maximum comfort and safety to all passengers. Once on board, enjoy uninterrupted views as you gently cruise the 9-mile (15-kilometer) inlet of Killary Fjord. Head for the top deck to experience Ireland’s great outdoors and feel the cool air on your face. Alternatively, the Connemara Lady has full bar facilities, and the galley serves a wide variety of hot and cold meals allowing you to enjoy a meal, snack or beverage as the natural beauty of Killary floats by.

Departing from outside the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road, Galway at 09:30 daily, your fully trained, local driver / guide will take you from the city of Galway (Gaillimh) out through the historical fishing village known as the Claddagh and onto Salthill, home to the famous Blackrock diving tower and the Prom. Our route to Connemara along the Wild Atlantic Way hugs the shoreline of the world-famous Galway Bay. The beauty of Connemara really begins to unfold before you, mountains start to rise up in the distance and the terrain becomes dotted with lakes separated by blanket bog and forestry. Your first scheduled stop is a photo-stop at the tumbling waterfall at Screeb. A chance to get out and capture some amazing images of the typical Connemara landscape. Your next photo-stop is at Derryclare Lough, a freshwater lake at the entrance to the Inagh Valley. Your pamper stop today is in the town of Clifden, the unofficial capital of Connemara, with brightly painted shopfronts, bars and restaurants lining the narrow streets, Clifden is a great place to find local crafts or unique special gifts. Next we follow the Sky Road route (Wild Atlantic Way – Discovery Point) to the viewing point for panoramic views over Atlantic Islands and to capture that perfect photo. On todays tour you have a choice of main stop. You can decide on either 3 hours to explore the Connemara National Park or 3 hours to explore the Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens. Option One is the Connemara National Park. – 3 hour stop. Nestled in the heart of Connemara, the park covers nearly 3,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expansive bogs, glorious grasslands and enchanting woodlands. Explore the walking trails at your own pace or set off on a challenging mountain hike towards the summit of Diamond Hill (400m). There are 4 marked walking trails, each beginning at the visitor Centre at the foot of the mountain. Option two is Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens- 3 hour stop. Best discounted entry / admission tickets to Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens can be purchased from your driver / guide upon arrival – cash only. A haven of history and serenity in an idyllic setting, Irelands most romantic building from the late 19th century, Kylemore Abbey was originally built as a private castle in 1867 as a token of love by Englishman Mitchel Henry for his wife Margaret. Today, the Abbey is home to the Benedictine Nuns and the 1,000 acre Kylemore estate is the perfect day trip destination. Following our main stop today, you will weave your way between the majestic Twelve Bens and Maumturk mountains through mountain-flanked Inagh Valley. It is a romantic valley which offers breathtaking views of peatlands, mountains, lakes and glorious countryside where sheep graze freely. Our next photo-stop in the tiny village of Recess, home to the Connemara Giant. Returning to Galway we pass the famous Quiet Man bridge on our right hand side.

Explore Connemara's Beauty and Traditions: Galway City to Connemara, a Sheepdog Show, a Medieval Castle, Cong Village, and more! This fully guided premium day tour is perfect for people looking for an authentic and immersive experience in the West of Ireland. Starting Point: Galway City Our adventure begins at 10.30 am outside The Hyde Hotel in Galway City. You'll hop onto our comfy bus, and we have friendly drivers to take care of you. As we drive, you'll see Connemara's pretty landscapes - hills, lakes, and big mountains. A guide will tell you cool stories about the area, making the ride more interesting. Aughnanure Castle: A Trip Back in Time Our next stop is Aughnanure Castle in Oughterard, 16th century medieval castle that was once the western stronghold to The Ferocious O'Flaherty's; a notorious Galway native clan. While visiting this historic site, guests will get a 1 hour long guided tour with an expert local historian. Step into a world of knights and nobles, wandering through stone walls, spiral staircases, and concealed chambers! Connemara: Untamed Nature Traverse the stunning Connemara countryside, where the Twelve Bens mountains dominate the skyline and mirror-like lakes such as Lough Corrib and Lough Derryclare captivate your gaze. Our guides bring the history and culture of Connemara to life, unraveling ancient legends and resilient communities that define this region. The intimacy of our small group allows for a more personal connection with Connemara's untouched beauty. Leenane: Quaint Village We'll visit Leenane village, between Counties Mayo and Galway. There are tall mountains all around, perfect for pictures. You can also enjoy tasty Irish food at local cafes. You can take your time exploring the village and enjoying the views. Sheep Dog Show: Smart Dogs in Action Witness a cherished Irish tradition as we visit a traditional Connemara sheep farm. Under Joe's skilled guidance, experience the remarkable Sheep Dog Demonstration—a true spectacle of canine intelligence. Watch as highly-trained sheepdogs effortlessly herd sheep, showcasing the age-old bond between man and dog. Engage with sheep and dogs, gaining insight into Connemara's culture and heritage. Cong Village: History and Peace Next is Cong Village, on the border of Counties Galway and Mayo. You'll visit a place called Cong Abbey, which is very old. Our guides will tell you all about its history. The village is pretty too, with cozy shops, pubs, and nice river views. This special tour shows you the best of Connemara - its beauty, history, and traditions. With our friendly guides, comfy bus, and exciting plans, you'll have a day you won't forget. Don't wait - book your Connemara trip now and be part of the fun!

First, visit Aughnanure Castle, a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. Find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and dry harbour.  Stop in the quaint village of Oughterard with its thatched cottage pub for a short coffee break. Continue with stops at the Quiet Man Bridge and the legendary Connemara Giant and on through the desolate Inagh Valley. The next castle stop is Kylemore Abbey, now a Benedictine monastery. The next few hours are up to you to explore this romantic abbey, its Victorian walled gardens and Gothic church.  After the break, head to the capital of Connemara, the colourful market town of Clifden. En route (weather permitting), join the famous Sky Road (part of the Wild Atlantic Way) viewing the ruins of Clifden castle and taking in the panoramic views.  After departing Clifden we travel to view old Ballynahinch Castle on the lake. This castle is steeped in history and is connected to one of the 14 tribes of Galway the Martin family. Richard Martin was the founder of the RSPCA. Another Martin was Edward Martin who was very friendly with WB Yeats and Lady Gregory and later went on to establish the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. Finally, make your way back through storybook villages. passing green fields marked by dry stone walls, and see sheep, cows, Connemara ponies and blanket bogs, before returning to Galway City.

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston station (Customer Service Desk) for 7:00 departure of InterCity train to Limerick (breakfast available). We join our coach here for a short tour of Limerick City and then to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park(admission included). Next we visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, Black Head, the Burren and Galway Bay overnighting in the heart of Galway City(3 star hotel accommodation - bed and full Irish breakfast) Day 2 At 10:00h we head into magnificent Connemara where John Ford filmed "The Quiet Man" in 1951, taking in Clifden, Kylemore Abbey (reduced admission rate applies to Abbey itself), Leenane and Killary Harbour or Roundstone, the Coral Beach and the Sky Road. See lots of breathtaking wild Atlantic coastline. We return to Galway for our return InterCity train to Dublin Heuston arriving at 21:00h. Prices are per person sharing - single room supplement applies Departs Daily (Monday - Saturday)

Day 1: From Dublin, journey north to Belfast, known for its industrial history and tumultuous past. Explore the city's highlights on a short tour covering its triumphs, tragedies, and essence. Afterwards, enjoy lunch and discover the Titanic Quarter, where the famous ship was constructed in 1911. Explore the Titanic museum, board the HMS Caroline, or take a black cab tour. Leaving Belfast, marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Continue along winding roads to reach the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway, where history and myth collide amidst stunning geological formations. Conclude the day in Portrush, a picturesque fishing village where you'll spend the night. Day 2: Go to the walled city of Derry, designated a UK City of Culture in 2013. Enjoy some free time to explore the old city center, and visit one of the many museums or galleries. Then cross the border to the Republic of Ireland, traveling into one of the most remote and unspoilt areas of the country. Explore County Donegal’s dramatic scenery and Gaelic culture. Pass through Glenveagh National Park and the Errigal Mountains, before following the coast through traditional fishing villages. Stop for nature walks along the way, and soak up the local culture before checking into your overnight accommodation in Donegal. Day 3: In the morning, head south along the coast near Donegal into County Sligo, known for its stunning views of the majestic Benbulben mountain. Just outside Sligo Town lies Carrowmore, home to the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, some dating back over 6000 years. Continuing westward into County Mayo, a region marked by the Great Potato Famine, you'll navigate winding roads through picturesque farmlands, bogs, and open moors, with glimpses of distant hills and the Atlantic coast. Stop at Achill Island to soak in its rugged sea views and tranquil beauty before a short drive to Westport, your base for the next two nights.. Day 4: Today’s itinerary is weather dependent, and your guide will advise the best things to see. Explore the beautiful house and grounds of Kylemore Abbey, or marvel at the wilderness of Connemara National Park. Go to Clifden to see where the first transatlantic flight landed. Other options include the scenic Sky Road and 12 Bens of Connemara. Return to Westport for an evening at leisure, and the chance to sample some local seafood in one of the many excellent restaurants. Day 5: Enjoy a leisurely start to the day, before leaving Westport and going inland through the heart of Connemara. Visit the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib to see where the classic movie “The Quiet Man” was filmed. Explore Cong Abbey, or the Quiet Man Museum, before driving through the Maam Valley to Galway City. Enjoy free time sampling the town's seafood before heading to Kilbeggan Distillery, Ireland's oldest licensed distillery, for a tasting and museum visit. Return to Dublin.

Day 1 You’ll take the fast road from Dublin west through the farmland and peat bogs of counties Kildare and Offally. The destinations today are on Ireland’s dramatic Atlantic Coast and the goal is to get you there as quickly as possible! The first stop is the village of Kinvara, where you’ll have a chance to admire Dunguaire Castle, perched on a rocky outcrop looking out over Galway Bay. From here it’s just a short drive to The Burren, which is one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. The Burren is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. Spend a few hours exploring this unique area, stopping in one of the pretty local villages for lunch. After The Burren you’ll head to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop nearly 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Walk along the cliff-top trails, watch the many seabirds, or visit the award-winning environmental exhibition. From here the tour follows the coastal road, and you’ll have stunning views across Galway Bay back to Galway City itself, which is your base for the next 2 nights. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants! Day 2 Galway lies at the edge of Connemara, which is the area you’ll explore today. Travel inland through the Maam Valley to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib. It is here that the classic film, The Quiet Man, was made. Visit the Quiet Man Museum or Cong Abbey. Continue through the heart of Connemara and stop to tour the lovely grounds and house of Kylemore Abbey. Continuing on, you’ll experience the majesty of Connemara National Park. Go to Clifden, where the first trans-Atlantic flight landed, and then drive along the Sky Road and take in the views of the 12 Bens of Connemara. Day 3 After a relaxed start to the day you’ll leave Galway behind and take some of the back roads through central Ireland on the way back to Dublin. The first highlight of the day is the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise, featuring a collection of churches, stone crosses and round towers beautifully situated on the banks of the mighty Shannon River. Following lunch in a local village the tour continues through an area of unique peat bog scenery that is typical of this part of Ireland. Your guide will explain both its environmental and economic importance to the country. The final stop on the tour is Kilbeggan Distillery, reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey and discover the true spirit of Ireland! From here you’ll continue east to Dublin, arriving at around 7:00PM.