Discover peace amid the mountains of the Western Way trail, then take to the high seas to explore
one of the most beautiful islands of the Connemara coast. For independent walkers we offer the
chance to combine these pleasures, on our self-guided, Connemara Ramble tour.
Discover peace amid the mountains of the Western Way trail, then cross the sea to explore one of the most beautiful islands of the Connemara coast. The unspoiled Connemara landscape is one of the great wildernesses of Europe but with magnificent views, interesting villages and ancient historical sites, whilst your hosts each day will offer you a warm welcome. You can choose to stay in either hotels or B&Bs, with en-suite rooms and excellent breakfasts along the route.
Price:
Hotel 7/6/5 night option £760/£720/£660 per person sharing.
B&B Accommodation 7/6/5 night options: £625/ £580.00/ £540.00 per person sharing (6 nights option only 1 night in Cleggan, 5 nights tour finishes in Cleggan)
Single supplement: on request
Included:
Not Included:
Departure Dates:
April to end of October
Day 1:
Arrive in Connemara. Settle in to your accommodation, meet our local representative who will explain your route notes, provide you with maps, and answer any questions you have about your tour.
Day 2:
After a sustaining full Irish breakfast, you walk from the foothills of Maumeen, up the pilgrims trail to St. Patrick’s church in the heart of the Maumturk Mountains. St. Patrick rested here on his way to Croagh Patrick, one of Ireland’s holiest mountains, located in County Mayo. A holy well, said to have healing powers, is nearby. (16K 300m climb)
Day 3:
Today the Twelve Bens & the Maumturk Mountains accompany you along the Western Way and the Inagh Valley. Note the remains of ruined farms, a reminder of the Great Famine. Now you will have views across Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, as you make your way into the charming village of Leenane. (15K 100m climb)
Day 4:
Follow a famine relief road built in 1846 along the southern shore of Killary harbour. This was built during the 19th century famine and you will clearly see the ruins of famine villages and’ lazy beds’, the name given to the potato ridges where the farmers tried to provide food for their families. Today mussels are raised in the fjord; and you might catch site of frolicking seals and dolphins. Second night in Leenane.
Day 5:
Today you have the option of exploring Kylemore Abbey. Today the estate is open to visitors, who may visit the Abbey, Gothic church, Victorian Walled Gardens, as well as enjoying lake and woodland walks. Letterfrack and the Connemara National Park are a short distance away – you can take the path up to climb Diamond Hill with its dramatic view across Connemara. This evening a transfer to the fishing village of Cleggan where you can either stay overnight or take the ferry to Inishboffin, depending on your accommodation choice.
Day 6:
Today explore the enchanting island of Inishbofin, with its sandy swimming beaches, its country tracks and wildlife, including the rare corncrake. Inishbofin has a strong musical tradition and musical ‘sessions’ take place most nights during the summer.The island has several fascinating loop walks, each with interesting histories and spectacular blow holes and sea stacks en route. You may stay a second night on the island or return to Cleggan, according to your accommodation choice.
Day 7:
Today’s walk takes you along quiet back roads to the tiny village of Claddaghduff and the island of Omey, situated on the far western edge of Connemara and only accessible by causeway at low tide. It was a place of devotion to Saint Feichín, one of the most important of the early founders of Irish Christianity. Here there is a Holy Well and the ancient church, for long buried in the sands but preserved thanks to the efforts of the parish priest. From here you transfer to Clifden, the ‘capital of Connemara’, for a relaxing evening in this colourful little town.
Day 8:
Departure after breakfast.
