Connemara & Kylemore Abbey Full-Day Guided Tour in Galway

Are you visiting Galway and want to explore some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery? If so, the Connemara & Kylemore Abbey Full-Day Guided Tour in Galway may be perfect for you. This tour offers amazing photographic opportunities as you take in some of Ireland’s most stunning mountain backdrops, lakes, and beaches. Plus, you’ll be able to experience Kylemore castle and Abbey, once the 19th-century home of the Duke and Duchess of Manchester.

The Highlights of this Tour

This full-day guided tour is the perfect way to explore one of the most picturesque areas of Ireland – Connemara and Kylemore Abbey. You’ll be taken on a journey that includes numerous stops to explore different facets of the area including:

• Lough Inagh Valley – With its stunning mountain backdrop, take a stroll along the Fairy Forest path to get amazing views of Lough Inagh Valley and forge beautiful memories.
• Kylemore Abbey – Enjoy a privately guided tour of Kylemore Castle and Gardens. Learn the abbey’s turbulent history, the legacy and contribution made by its various owners.
• Connemara – Discover Connemara’s beauty and charm as you travel through sheltered bays and long sandy beaches, enjoying points of interest along the way.
• Clifden – Visit Clifden, a pretty little town nestled beneath a steep mountain backdrop.

What You Can Expect On This Tour

This tour departs from Galway, so first, you’ll have a 45 minute drive northwest through scenic countryside before arriving at Lough Inagh Valley. This area has gained fame for its stunning backdrop and is a great spot for taking photos. Next, you’ll travel across a wild and rugged landscape to Dublin Pass. Throughout the journey, you may even stop for a photo at one of the numerous scenic stops along the way.

Leaving Dublin Pass, you’ll move onto Letterfrack where your Guide will explain how locals lived off the land during hard times in years gone by. You’ll then make your way to Connemara where you’ll marvel at sighs such as Kylemore Lough, Blaskets Bay, Killary Harbor, and Dog’s Bay.

Before long it will be time to arrive at Kylemore Abbey. Your guide will take you on a pleasant walk through 100-year-old gardens which are among the finest gardens in Europe before exploring the castle’s interior. You will learn about the castle’s 20th-century history and have time to shop for souvenirs in unique boutiques. After this amazing experience, you’ll make your way to the picturesque town of Clifden where there will be time for lunch and for exploring by your own. Finally, it’s time for the journey back to Galway where your tour will come to an end.

What’s Included?

• Tours are 4 hours in length – 8am – 12pm
• Entrance fee to Kylemore castle and abbey
• All facility entrance fees
• Transportation by an air-conditioned coach aboard a spacious Mercedes Benz or a similar model.
• Voice Over Headset System in a variety of languages: English, French, Spanish, German & Italian
• Live professional driver/guide

The Benefits of Doing This Tour

In addition to seeing one of Ireland’s most remote and beautiful places, travellers on this tour have the benefits of:

• Experienced local guide who can answer questions and point out facts that untrained eyes may miss.
• Time of convenience – this tour has been designed to fit into regular holiday cycles.
• Cost savings – taking part on this tour avoids considerable expense by cutting down on costs usually associated with car rental, overnight stays, navigation fees, and petrol.
• Safety – there is no need to worry about mechanical breakdowns or getting lost; the experienced guide will do all that for you.

All in all, it’s an amazing and memorable experience that should not be missed if visiting Galway. If all of this have got you interested and you’re looking to book this tour I can highly recommend GetYourGuide. Their range of prices, excellent customer service, and selection of activities make them a great choice for anyone looking for a great experience in Galway.

An Insider’s Guide to Galway

Galway is a vibrant and captivating city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. If you want to experience the city like a local, then exploring the hidden gems of Galway is the perfect way to start. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Galway.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Galway has many popular tourist spots that are certainly worth visiting, there are some hidden gems that only the locals know about. One such place is The Hall of the Red Earl, the remains of a 13th-century Hiberno-Norman stone house located beneath the streets of Galway. Another hidden attraction is the beautiful Kirwan’s Lane, where you can find charming old-style buildings, cafes, and boutiques. Finally, explore the medieval arches of St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, the largest medieval parish church in Ireland still in use today.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Galway has a rich and diverse culinary culture, and it’s worth exploring to find some hidden gems. Visit Kai Cafe & Restaurant for a taste of the Galway oyster, or Ard Bia at Nimmos for a fresh and locally sourced brunch. The city is also famous for its fish and chips, and you can get some of the best at McDonagh’s, a traditional family-run seafood restaurant that has been in business since 1902. You can also experience the local pub culture and enjoy authentic live music at Tig Coili and The Crane Bar.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace the City’s Heritage

Galway is renowned for its vibrant artistic community and unique cultural experiences. The Galway International Arts Festival is one of the largest and most successful multi-disciplinary arts events in Ireland, attracting artists and performers from around the world. If you’re interested in local traditions, the Galway Races and the Galway Oyster Festival are must-visit events. Take a trip to the Aran Islands and experience the traditional Irish lifestyle, with its language, customs, and unique natural landscape.

Local History: Fascinating Tales from Galway’s Past

Galway has a rich historical heritage dating back to the medieval period. In the 13th century, the city was ruled by the Hiberno-Norman Burkes, and their influence can still be seen in the castle ruins and fortified walls throughout the city. The Battle of Aughrim, one of the most significant battles in Irish history, was fought near Galway in 1691. The city also played a crucial role in the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to have a unique experience in Galway, then try hiking in Connemara National Park, which offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland. Take a boat trip to the beautiful Aran Islands, where you can explore ancient ruins and experience the traditional Irish way of life. Alternatively, explore the Claddagh, a historic fishing village adjacent to Galway city that’s full of character. For adventurous souls, learning to surf at Salthill Beach is a must.

Conclusion

Galway is a city brimming with hidden gems, local cuisine, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, sampling its delicious food, or taking a trip to the Aran Islands, Galway has something to offer everyone. So, come and explore the city like a local and create unforgettable memories.