5 (153)
Galway
Connemara & Kylemore Abbey Day Tour from Galway
540
Overview
From Galway, the guided tour of Connemara with a 3-hour stop at Kylemore Abbey lets people see the beautiful Irish countryside. This bus tour takes everyone on a fun day trip to see nature and wildlife.
Travelers will start at Kinlay Hostel in Galway and see places like The Claddagh and Salthill Promenade. The tour goes through Barna and Furbo, and then Spiddal (An Spideal). People can learn about the area as they pass the Former Residence of Bruce Ismay. The bus will also drive through the Connemara countryside, where visitors can see Derryclare Lough. The bus goes to Clifden, where they will hear about John Darcy's Legacy and see the Sky Road. People can pick between stopping at either Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey for three hours to explore the attraction. The bus also goes through Inagh Valley, Recess, and past The Quiet Man Film Locations.
The tour includes a local guide, driver, air-conditioned vehicle, and live commentary. Food and drinks are not included. Gratuities and entry to Kylemore Abbey are also not included, but tickets can be bought from the driver (cash only). The tour does not include hotel pickup. 
Highlights
See Connemara's Best Spots: Visit top places like Kylemore Abbey and the Connemara National Park.
Comfortable Bus Ride: Enjoy a ride on an air-conditioned bus with live commentary.
Learn from Local Guides: Hear stories and facts from friendly local guides.
Choice of Main Stop: Pick between a 3-hour visit to Kylemore Abbey or Connemara National Park.
Sentiment Analysis
Most visitors thought the tour was a great way to see Connemara's beauty and history. They really liked the guides and the main stops, but some wished for more included items and longer visits at each location.
Travelers loved the beautiful views of the Irish countryside.
The guides were knowledgeable and shared interesting stories.
Many visitors enjoyed the Kylemore Abbey stop.
The bus was comfortable for the full-day tour.
Some felt that the Kylemore Abbey entry fee should be included.
A few people wanted more time at certain stops.
The Journey
Kinlay Hostel, Galway
Begin your adventure at the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road, Galway, the starting point for your tour into the heart of Connemara. This vibrant location serves as a convenient meeting place before you set off to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural gems of western Ireland. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes early to begin your journey into the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Claddagh
Step into the historic Claddagh, once a traditional fishing village, and discover St. Mary's Church, a Dominican sanctuary for nearly five centuries. Embrace the romantic legacy of the Claddagh Ring, a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship, perfect as a memento of your Galway visit. This iconic ring embodies the enduring spirit of this ancient community.
Salthill Promenade
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Salthill, overlooking the stunning Galway Bay. Stroll along the famous 4km promenade, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the bay, the Clare Hills, and a series of charming beaches interspersed with rocky outcrops. Salthill's lively ambiance and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Barna and Furbo
Venture along the scenic coast road, meandering westward through the picturesque villages of Barna and Furbo. As you journey towards Spiddal, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the moorlands and the wild Atlantic Ocean, experiencing the authentic charm of Ireland's coastal communities.
Spiddal (An Spideal)
Discover Spiddal, a charming Gaeltacht village nestled on the shores of Galway Bay. Immerse yourself in the rich Irish language and culture as you explore traditional thatched-roof homes, scenic coastlines, and beautiful beaches. Spiddal offers a unique glimpse into a heritage that values the traditions of the Gaeltacht.
Former Residence of Bruce Ismay
Pass by the former residence of Bruce Ismay, the CEO of White Star Lines and a survivor of the Titanic disaster. Reflect on the historical significance of this location as you journey through the landscapes of Connemara. His story offers a poignant connection to a pivotal moment in maritime history.
Connemara
Let the rugged beauty of Connemara inspire you, just as it has inspired countless artists and musicians, including Michel Sardou, whose famous song 'Les Lacs du Connemara' captures the essence of this enchanting region. Experience the landscapes that have fueled creativity and imagination for generations.
Derryclare Lough
Capture the breathtaking beauty of Derryclare Lough, a freshwater lake at the entrance to the Inagh Valley. This popular viewpoint offers stunning photo opportunities, particularly of Pine Island, making it a must-stop destination for visitors seeking to immortalize the scenic splendor of Connemara.
Connemara Countryside
Escape the ordinary and delve into the wilds of Connemara with your expert guide. Travel in luxury through stunning landscapes, passing charming coastal villages, traditional thatched cottages, and expansive bog lands. Discover the untamed beauty and hidden gems of this enchanted region, revealing the heart of Ireland's natural splendor.
Clifden
Explore Clifden, the unofficial capital of Connemara, a vibrant town nestled between mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1812, Clifden boasts historical connections to Marconi, Alcock, and Brown, adding to its unique charm. Discover why this town is the central hub for the entire Connemara region.
John Darcy's Legacy
Reflect on the legacy of John Darcy, the founder of Clifden, as you journey through the town. His vision shaped this thriving community, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape and culture of Connemara. Understanding Darcy's role adds depth to your appreciation of Clifden's history.
Sky Road
Embark on a breathtaking drive along the Sky Road, a 16km circular route that is a Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Ascend high above the Atlantic Ocean, reveling in spectacular panoramic views. On a clear day, the vista from the Sky Road is an unforgettable experience, showcasing the raw beauty of the Irish coastline.
Connemara National Park
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Connemara National Park. Hike the Diamond Hill trails for an idyllic experience, climbing through wild uplands to be rewarded with breathtaking views across the region. This accessible and richly rewarding park offers a deep connection with the unique Connemara landscape, showcasing its rugged charm and serene beauty.
Kylemore Abbey
Discover Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Built in the 1860s by Mitchell Henry as a wedding gift to his wife Margaret, this magnificent castle boasts a dramatic setting and captivating history. With discounted admission available, Kylemore Abbey is a must-see in Connemara, offering a glimpse into a romantic past and architectural grandeur.
Inagh Valley
Marvel at the Inagh Valley, one of the most scenic valleys in all of Ireland. This romantic landscape offers breathtaking views of peatlands, mountains, lakes, and glorious countryside where sheep graze freely. The Inagh Valley is a visual symphony of natural beauty, offering an idyllic escape into the heart of Connemara.
Recess
Visit the tiny village of Recess, nestled on the edge of Glendalough fishing lake. Discover the Connemara Giant, or Con MacNamara, a statue overlooking the village car park. Recess is a charming stop that adds a touch of local character to your Connemara adventure.
The Quiet Man Film Locations
While not explicitly stated to be a stop on this itinerary, consider the opportunity to see the countryside of the 1952 film 'The Quiet Man.' The film's lush photography of the Irish countryside and its iconic fight scenes helped to create an enduring romantic image of Ireland for moviegoers.
Know Before You Go
This guided tour includes a local guide providing live commentary, a driver, and an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. Gratuities are also not included. Entry to Kylemore Abbey is excluded, but tickets can be purchased from the driver for cash at a discounted rate. Hotel pickup is not offered for this tour. The tour starts at Kinlay Hostel, Galway and explores The Claddagh, Salthill Promenade, Barna and Furbo, Spiddal (An Spideal), Former Residence of Bruce Ismay, Connemara, Derryclare Lough, Connemara Countryside, Clifden, John Darcy's Legacy, Sky Road, Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey, Inagh Valley, Recess, and The Quiet Man Film Locations.
Hot Tip
Travelers suggest bringing cash for Kylemore Abbey tickets and snacks since they are not included. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the stops.
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