Connemara is a wonderful place to visit because of the huge variety of things to do and see. Particularly in the summer there are some great things going on, many of these are absolutely free yet still a great way to spend some time in Connemara.
Here are some of our favourite things to do which will not cost you a penny, but are a great way to pass the day, and keep everyone interested.
Go to a Reggatta: There are some very well organised events on the west coast and Roundstone Regatta is one of our favourites, they have a great attendance of magnificent traditional boats, along with Curragh racing and lots of things to do and see. A great way to spend an afternoon. This year Roundstone Regatta takes place on the 21st-22nd July. Clifden Regatta takes place at Clifden Boat Club on the 10th and 11th August
Go Horse Racing: Omey Races is a very Connemara day out. There is a huge area of sand between Omey Island and the mainland that dries out at low tide, leaving more than enough room to create a race track. Horses come from all over Ireland and the competition is intense, and young jockeys compete to win these unusual races. Being only feet away from a field of horses thundering along on the sand is a unique sensation and certainly not to be missed. There is always a great atmosphere. This year it takes place on Sunday 4th August.
Go for a Hill walk: If you would like to do some hill walking but are not sure about routes and places to walk head for the Connemara National Park where the walking routes around the Diamond Mountain are very well laid out and there are several different routes that you can choose from according to your ambition or fitness levels! This is a great way to wear the kids out, and there is nature walk and other things for the kids to do. Once you have done this walk you will be more familiar with the Connemara hills and be able to venture further afield. There are lots of guide books available, Clifden Bookshop stocks many of them.
See Ballinahinch Walled Garden: Kylemore Abbey Walled Garden is world famous, but is often very busy and there is a cost. Ballinahinch Victorian walled garden has recently been restored and is now a unique and beautiful garden that provides fresh organic vegetables and cut flowers for the Hotel and its Kitchens. Once you have seen the Victorian garden there are a lot of other marked and well laid out walks in the grounds of the Castle and there is the start of the Connemara Greenway that you can walk or cycle three miles or so towards Recess.
A Beach: The quintessential Connemara pass-time and the very best thing to do for free in Connemara. There are so many amazing beaches in the area that you really don’t need to walk the same one, but everyone has a favourite they return to again and again. Having said that there is always a secret beach to discover and call your own! There are many beaches in the area that have won awards and been in top ten lists, but it is an impossible task to say which beach is best, as there is always another one to find!
Whenever you visit Connemara you are guaranteed the there will be lots to do and see, and most of the time it wont cost you a penny!
