The Quay House

Tel : +353 (0)95 21369 www.thequayhouse.com

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Gaeltacht Regional Area

Ireland’s second-largest Gaeltacht (Irishspeaking region) is located in South Connemara, and maintains to this day an indelible link to a different time. While Gaeilge is the day-to-day language, the people of this community can switch to English effortlessly if needed. Visitors are therefore not only welcome, but they will find in this heartland an emphasis on traditional culture and customs that is enriching to behold.

Inishbofin Island

Long before you walk along its tapestries of meadow, its ancient ruins, sea cliffs and rocky coves, not to mention two Green Coast Awardwinning beaches, the adventure of Inishbofin has already begun the second you board the ferry at Cleggan for the journey out. Hence the reason this welcoming island escape has been a go-to family day out for generations of visitors to the West. Ferry times are listed on page 32.

Jewellery Workshop

Wander into O’Dalaigh Jewellers on Clifden’s Main Street and you might find it difficult to leave. This family-run outfit crafts finery inspired by the golden age of Celtic jewellery that embraces modern sensibilities. Drop by their open-plan workshop to see these master exponents in their element. You’ll come away with some secrets of this ancient craft – and perhaps more, besides.

Killary Adventure Centre

If you’re aged 8 or over and in need of a shot of adrenaline to break up the sightseeing, book in with Killary Adventure Company, located at the famous fjord. Among its range of land and water pursuits (half and full days available) are sea kayaking, an inflatable waterpark, a highropes course, climbing tower, and its famous Turf Challenge. Drop off the kids or descend on the place as a group, the choice is yours.

Kylemore Abbey And Gardens

Kylemore Abbey was originally built as a Castle in 1867 as a romantic gift. The Abbey and surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history, myth, and legend. Experience the beautifully restored rooms of the Abbey and Gothic Church, explore the magic of the Victorian Walled Garden, Woodland Trails and Tales, Café, Tea House and shop. This is the ideal destination for a family day out.

Le Petit Spa At The Twelve Hotel

Residents and day-visitors in search of me-time should find themselves suitably melted once Le Petit Spa has had its way with them. Full-body, hot-stone, and Indian head massages are on the menu, as are a range of organic beauty and detox treatments using local products such as Voya seaweed. Taking pride of place among the latter are its Nourishing Marine Cocoon Wrap and Detox Seaweed Bath.

Accessible by car or foot at low tide (check the tides on page 32), Omey is one of the more beguiling locations to be found in the Clifden area. The huge strand near Claddaghduff is beloved by locals and visitors alike as a leisure amenity, with a famous race meeting taking place in summertime. The low-lying island itself, meanwhile, offers incredible Atlantic views, rich wildlife and centuries-old ruins.

Playgrounds

OK, it’s time to face facts – no amount of dramatic scenery, fresh seafood, and cheerful locals will be enough for “certain people”. When grumbles escalate from the backseat and impatient frowns start to rear their ugly head, the best thing for everyone might be a hasty retreat to a playground. Take comfort, then, in the fact that you don’t have to travel too far in Connemara without coming across one.

Sands Seaweed Baths And Spa

Sumptuous seaweed baths by Voya, the world’s first producer of certified organic seaweed-based skincare products, are among the wide range of treatments at this soothing coastal spa in the Connemara Sands Hotel. Located right by the crystalline waters of Mannin Bay in Ballyconneely, a “Sea Swim & Sauna” thermotherapy experience is also available, which is good news for the stiffjointed among us. Booking is essential.

The Point Pony Trekking

The world looks different from horseback, revealing things you might otherwise have missed. With 25 years of experience, this equine company located close to the Connemara Championship Golf Links and the dreamy white sands of Aillebrack beach will show you how. All treks are accompanied by qualified staff, with safety equipment included free of charge. Closed on Sunday.

Western Way

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the wilds of Connemara, this long-distance walking trail is just the ticket. Traversing quiet bog roads, forestry tracks, mountain paths and timber bridges, you begin in Oughterard, heading north towards the Maumturk mountains, the Inagh Valley and onto Killary Harbour. Waymarked and accessible, this route speaks to walkers seeking a sense of wilderness.

WILDLANDS – FAMILY DAY OUT

Just minutes from Galway on the Clifden road, the village of Moycullen has become a hotspot for thrill-seeking thanks to this versatile and weather-resilient activity centre. Wildlands welcomes all ages and levels of excitability to its popular Zip ‘n’ Trek course, new Ninja course, Cloud Climb Combo, fun walls, archery, bushcraft, fairy trails, and tonnes of other indoor and outdoor frolics on its 20-acre site.

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