Here’s Why Stunning Clifden Is Galway’s Best Kept Secret

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Ah, Clifden.

The spectacular spot in Connemara that locals flock to and tourists dream about. It seems like every road is a scenic route (it is) , and every spot is a hidden gem (they are), but it’s the combination of everything that makes it simply unmissable.

Let us catalogue the reasons we love it so.

1. The views

I mean, come on…

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2. The Clifden Station House Hotel

And where to capture these insane views? The ultimate getaway that is the Clifden Station House Hotel.

It’s the perfect mix of old and new, being just minutes away from Kylemore Abbey, Connemara National Park, Killary Fjord and the landing point for the first transatlantic flight from pilots Alcock and Brown, as well as boasting an award winning spa & leisure centre and four star self-catering apartments.

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3. Connemara National Park

Spanning 2,957 hectares of scenic mountains, expansive bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands, Connemara National Park is one of the most breathtaking areas in the country.

It boasts an array of mountains to climb (or say you climbed), view, and photograph, such as Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, all part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range.

You can also catch a glimpse of the truly exquisite Kylemore Abbey Estate.

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4. Sky Road

The clue is in the name, as this is one of the highest points along the west coast. The Sky Road is absolutely perfect for a scenic drive, walk, cycle or run.

And it looks like this…

5. Kylemore Abbey

You may have seen this place before. Either in news feeds, on Instagram or possibly in your dreams, because it’s maybe the most heavenly spot in all of Ireland – and that’s saying something.

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6. Roundstone Farmers’ Market

Fresh, local produce being sold in one of the most picturesque places on the planet. What’s not to love?

In the market you’ll find homemade and artisan cheese, eggs, the freshest of fish, organic vegetables and fruit, breads, pastries and all sorts of deadly crafts.

The market is open from Easter to October, then every Sunday in June, July and August. As well as additional markets in support of local events.

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7. The Beaches

Connemara’s beaches are all so different, yet so incredible.

The Coral Strand in Ballyconneely is famed for its golden coral sand. Mannin Bay boasts white sandy beaches as far as the eye can see. Dog’s Bay and Gurteen, which lie back to back to one another, are both absolutely mystifying. And Glassilaun, in Renvyle, is where scenes of the movie Tristan And Isolde were filmed.

Mannin Beach — Photo cred: Connemara.net

8. And finally, Lavelle Art Gallery

The Lavelle Art Gallery has been representing artists in Connemara since opening back in 1988. It’s situated in a two-storey yellow townhouse on the Main Street, a house that has been in the Lavelle family for six generations.

It houses an eclectic and vibrant array of Irish and international artists, those who are drawn to work in the dreamy region of Clifden, due to its outstanding natural beauty and heritage.