Getaway in Connemara

Here we are, close to nature, in the wild and rugged region of Connemara, made popular by French singer Michel Sardou and many others. With its Connemara National Park, the intensity of its scenery and the calm that reigns amidst its peat bogs, this is one of Ireland’s best-preserved treasures. Travellers in search of wild landscapes, sparkling lakes and stony moors will find here a true haven of peace. On the shores of the lakes, tranquillity and intensity combine to suspend time.

Must-see places in Connemara

Enigmatic Pollacapall Lough

To the west of Kylemore Lough, on the shores of another body of water, stands Kylemore Abbey. Majestic and mysterious, the building overlooks the dark waters of Pollacapall Lake and is reflected on its surface. In the heart of a dense and generous green setting, the abbey blends into this magical natural landscape. It’s easy to dream on the shores of this lake, which perfectly illustrates the spirit of Connemara: restful, fascinating and wild.

Here, you can imagine the mysterious monsters that meander in the depths of the lake and appear on the surface on certain summer evenings. A miniature version of Killary Fjord.

Wild Inagh Lough

Close to Derryclare Lough and at the foot of the Twelve Bens, the atmosphere is peaceful on the shores of Lake Inagh. Nestling in Connemara’s most beautiful valley, between mountains and vast heather-covered plains, the lake completes a natural picture of wild charm. Surrounded by uninhabited moorland that turns red in autumn, Lough Inagh is a haven of peace. With the Twelve Bens reflected in its waters, this lake is one of the region’s gems.

After a beautiful walk, you can have lunch overlooking the lake. And why not spend the night in a charming lakeside accommodation such as Ballynahinch Castle or Lough Inagh Lodge to soak up the atmosphere?

Derryclare Lough, the silent one

Sparkling, wild and peaceful, Derryclare lough is one of the symbols of Connemara. In the distance, the Twelve Bens stand out, while a solitary island covered in pine trees seems to float on the surface of the water. This unique, almost unreal setting makes you feel privileged.

This small islet, known as Pine Island, is reminiscent of Loch Eilt in Scotland, as seen in the latest instalments of the Harry Potter saga, and provides an ideal backdrop for photography. The mysterious waters around Pine Island invite you to relax, changing colour as the day progresses and revealing the reflection of the pine trees around the islet. You can contemplate this little treasure surrounded by peat bogs in silence.

Corrib Lough, the majestic

Dotted with small wild islands, Corrib Lough is the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. A paradise for fishing enthusiasts, its scenery is as grandiose as it is fascinating. Between walks, fishing and aquatic adventures, Lough Corrib is a place of discovery.

To the north of the lake, near Cong, Ashford Castle proudly displays its Victorian buildings. Expanded over the centuries, it is now a 5-star luxury hotel.

Lake Corrib can also be explored by boat, to enjoy the scenery as it gently glides by. For curious travellers, Inchagoill Island is a nugget lost among the hundred or so other islets in the lake. Venture out onto this wild little piece of land and you’ll discover the ruins of two ancient churches, for a trip out of time.

Connemara is an immense and sublime region. Dare to venture to this corner of Ireland for more than just a few days, you won’t regret it.

There’s something for everyone and all you have to do is plan your trip to Ireland by contacting one of our advisers.