This gorgeous national park encompasses over 2,000 hectares (4,940 acres) of mountains, bogs, grasslands, and hiking trails. Some of the best trails lead through the peaceful Gleann Mór (which means “Big Glen”), through which flows the River Polladirk, or up to the Twelve Bens (also called the “Twelve Pins”), a small, quartzite mountain range north of the Galway-Clifden road. None of the Twelve Bens rises above 730m (2,392 ft.), which makes their summits quite accessible to those who don’t mind walking at a steep incline. Nearby are the lesser-known, equally lovely Maumturk range and the breathtaking Killary Fjord—the only fjord in Ireland, indeed this entire region of Europe. Frequent rainfall produces dozens of tiny streams and waterfalls, and the views are spectacular. The excellent visitor center south of the crossroads in Letterfrack dispenses general information on the park, as well as providing sustenance in the form of tea, sandwiches, and fresh baked goods.
Connemara
Travel Guide
Connemara› Attraction
Connemara National Park
Visitor center signposted from N59, Letterfrack, Co. Galway, Ireland
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Clifden-Westport rd. (N59), Letterfrack, County Galway
Hours
Visitor center: Mar–Oct daily 9am–5:30pm (closed Nov–Feb). Park: Daily year-round
Phone
076/100-2528
Prices
Free admission
Web site
http://www.connemaranationalpark.ie
Map
Visitor center signposted from N59, Letterfrack, Co. Galway Ireland ConnemaraNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.