Clifden is the capital of the scenic Connemara region, 80km west of Galway, Ireland. The town itself is the largest in Connemara with a population of over 800 people.
This picturesque town sits at the tip of Clifden Bay and spans the Owenlin River, with quaint houses tightly packed into winding streets, only the town’s church and steep spires of any height. architecture.
The town is set against the backdrop of the Twelve Burns Mountains to the east of the town, and it is this scenery and location that makes Clifden an ideal base for those exploring Connemara. The area offers a great opportunity to enjoy an outdoor vacation, with plenty of fishing options, walking routes, more adventurous mountaineering and, of course, great displays of nature and wildlife.
Many visitors to Connemara choose to experience the countryside by bike. It’s the ideal way to explore the countryside at a pace that keeps pace with the relaxed pace of life in the area. There are many places in town where bikes can be rented.
The nearby Connemara Walking Centre offers guided walks to the area’s geographic and natural attractions. The center also provides maps and route details for ramblers and cyclists.
For those looking to engage in less demanding outdoor activities, Errislannan Horse Riding Centre (3km south of Clifden) rents ponies to ride along Clifden Beach, or head to the hills around the village. Beginner courses are also available.
After all these outdoor activities, you’ll no doubt have an appetite, and Clifden’s variety of options won’t disappoint.
EJ Kings is located on the plaza in the heart of the city, and can enjoy hearty pub food all year round in their bar, or slightly more formal dining in the adjoining restaurant. Seafood lovers will love Clifden’s dining options. Salmon Leap Seafood Restaurant and O’Grady’s Seafood Restaurant are two excellent options in town, and O’Grady’s is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Galway County.
Accommodation options in and around town range from hotels and B&Bs in Clifden to a variety of year-round inns (all IHH related).
Buses Eireann runs daily from Galway to Clifden and Westport, although schedules can easily change with the seasons so be sure to get a bus from the Clifden Tourist Office (Market Street; open March-October ) or the Galway Tourism Office for this or other information.
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