Overview
About 80km northwest of Galway, this 2,957-hectare national park epitomizes the wild west of Ireland. The Twelve Bens mountains, vast bogs, glacial lakes, and free-roaming Connemara ponies have made the area a setting for countless films including The Quiet Man and P.S. I Love You. The Diamond Hill hike (442m, about 3 hours round trip) is the most popular trail, with endless views. Nearby Kylemore Abbey — a Victorian Gothic Revival abbey reflected fairytale-like in its lake — pairs perfectly with a national park visit. Free entry (Abbey separate). About 1.5 hours from Galway by car or tour bus.
Opening Hours
Park 24 hours (visitor center 09:00-17:30)
Travel Tips
A Connemara + Kylemore Abbey day tour is the most efficient option. Mountain weather changes fast — bring a windproof jacket and hiking shoes.
Hotels near Connemara National Park
Hotels and guesthouses in Galway, Connemara, County Galway
Other attractions in Galway
Cliffs of Moher
Atlantic-facing cliffs over 200 m high - Ireland's most stunning natural landscape.
Aran Islands
Atlantic limestone islands where Gaelic language and traditional culture still thrive.
Galway Latin Quarter
A charming district of cosy shops and pubs at the heart of Galway.
Spanish Arch
The last remnant of Galway's medieval walls (built 1584) — a riverside gathering spot.
Galway Cathedral
Ireland's last great stone cathedral, completed in 1965 — a Renaissance dome with Byzantine mosaics.
Salthill Promenade
A 2km seafront promenade along Galway Bay — sunsets and views of the oyster beds.
Eyre Square
Galway's central square — site of the JFK memorial and the city's tribal flags, a gathering spot.