ATTRACTIONS – cultural and historic

Athenry Castle - Athenry is one of the most notable medieval walled towns surviving in Ireland, owing its foundation to Meiler de Bermingham who built his castle there c.1250. 

The battlements are original 13th century work with tall arrow loops or slits in the solid sections or merlons. Imagine yourself back in history with a visit to this castle!

Aughnanure Castle - Built by the O'Flahertys c.1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib.  Standing on what is virtually a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. In addition, visitors will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour.

Dun Aonghasa - visit this attraction for an outdoors tour of the largest of the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands. Perched spectacularly on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic ocean, this is one to wrap up for beforehand! Members get Group Rate at all OPW Heritage sites.

Patrick Pearse's Cottage - Patrick Pearce (leader of the 1916 Rising) used this small cottage as a summer residence and summer school. Overlooking the breathtaking lakes and mountains of Connemara, this restored cottage is a piece of Irish history. Members get Group Rate at all OPW Heritage sites.

Portumna Castle & Gardens - Built before 1618, this great semi-fortified house at Portumna was by Richard Burke or de Burgo, 4th Earl of Clanricarde. Portumna Castle is surrounded by the towns' local attractions - Lough Derg, the River Shannon and Portumna Forest Park. Members get Group Rate at all OPW Heritage sites

Dan O'Hara's History Centre - Travel back in time and see Dan O'Hara's homestead and which is built on the original site of the home of Dan from Connemara renowned in the popular ballad.  This award winning Connemara heritage and history centre is real eye-opener as to how life in the West of Ireland was for those without the luxuries of today!

Erislannan Riding Centre - at Errislannan Manor in Clifden Riding and trekking on the famous Connemara ponies takes place by the hour each morning from Monday to Friday inclusive. For members the price is only €30 per person for 1 hour ride, trek or lesson including free garden visit

Kylemore Abbey - the number 1 tourist attraction in the West of Ireland – Kylemore Abbey is a truly stunning sight. With a Gothic church, incredibly maintained walled gardens, tearooms and the magnificent abbey itself – this is an attraction not to be missed!  Don’t forget your camera!

Use your Hostelling International Membership card to receive discounts in the following attractions in the area:

•    Athenry Castle

•    Aughnanure Castle

•    Dun Aonghasa

•    Patrick Pearse's Cottage

•    Portumna Castle & Gardens

•    Aran Island Ferries

•    Dan O'Hara's History Centre

•    Errislannan Riding Centre

•    Kylemore Abbey

ACTIVITIES

Watersports:

Fishing:

Golf:

Hiking/Walking: 

1. Killary Famine Walk

2. Leenane Walk

3. Connemara National Park-Diamond Hill Loop, Letterfrack to Cregg Walk

4. The Western Way

Horse Riding:

Other activities:

Nightlife and Eating out: The Connemara Hostel has a cosy resident’s lounge, with views along Killary fjord to the open ocean, and the mountains which lift to the sky on the opposite side. It is a breathtaking spot to relax with a coffee or pint by the log-fire, listen to some music from the juke-box or have a few games of snooker. The comfortable TV room with its large couches and table for playing board games (available at reception) also boasts an open fire - the perfect spot to chat, read a book or plan the next day’s activities!

Gaynors Bar: Local pub in the village Tel: +353 (0)95 42261

Hamilton’s Bar: Local pub in the village Tel: +353 (0) 42266

Ask at the Reception for some ideas on where to go during your time in Connemara!