Local Attractions and Things to Do in Connemara
Ballynahinch is an ideal base for a golfing holiday in Ireland. There are several golf courses in the area. The most renowned Golf Course being the Connemara Championship 18 Hole Links Course in Ballyconneely.
There are numerous other 18 hole golf courses in the county such as The Barna Golf Course, The Galway Bay Course in Oranmore and the Oughterard Golf Course. The hotel will be happy to make advanced bookings for tee times and confirm any other arrangements for you.
There are many activities in the West of Ireland that can be enjoyed to the fullest while staying at Ballynahinch Castle.
Ballynahinch Castle is centrally located for one to enjoy the landscape, scenery and people of the Connemara area, which will refresh your very senses.
Clifden is the largest town in the area with several shops, a bank, pretty craft and coffee shops. Clifden is a 15 minute drive from Ballynahinch Castle and is a good starting to enjoy the scenic Sky Road Drive.
This drive will take you back onto the N59 and take you towards, Letterfrack, the Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey.
Kylemore Abbey was originally built in 1868 and is now the home to the Irish Benedictine Nuns. Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor's centre, restaurant, Gothic church, gardens, lake and mountain walks, pottery, craft and souvenir shop Connemara National Park & Visitor Centre at Letterfrack, includes an exhibition on the boglands of the West of Ireland, an audio-visual introduction to the Park and nature trails.
Roundstone is a pretty fishing village just a 15 minute drive from Ballynahinch, here you will find craft shops including Malachy Bodhrán, a famous Bodhrán and Instrument maker. As well as the well-known beach, Dog's Bay and Gurteen Bay, from which on a lucky day one might be able to spot a dolphin swimming.
The Irish speaking Aran Islands are well worth a day trip; people here are renowned for their unique way of life where age old traditions co-exist comfortably with modern living. The islands have a rich history, which can be seen from their ancient monuments, from both prehistoric and Christian times. You may take a 20 minute ferry crossing from Rossaveal on the Connemara coast.
One can also head out to Inishbofin Island for the day and enjoy the historical ruins dating back to the Cromwellian period. Please ask at reception on arrival if there are any festivals, events or activities that we can recommend during your stay.
