Private Castles of Connemara Tour
Galway
Explore majestic castles, historic abbeys, and stunning landscapes on the Private Castles of Connemara Tour. Discover the rich heritage and breathtaking views of Connemara.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Aughnanure Castle - The home fearsome O’Flaherty family, whose motto was ‘Fortune favours the strong’, ruled west Connacht for 300 years from this fine six-storey tower on the shores of Lough Corrib. O’Flahertys joined forces with the Mayo O’Malleys when Donal married Grace O’Malley, later known as Granuaile, the formidable pirate queen. The O’Malley motto, ‘Powerful by land and by sea,’ showed the awe in which that family, too, was held.

At Aughanure today you hear the past stories, and inspect the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the three species of bat that now live in the castle.

  • Quiet Man Bridge - We stop The Quiet Man bridge from the movie of same name 1952 American romantic comedy-drama film directed by John Ford. It stars John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara, Barry Fitzgerald. we here the movies tales
  • Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden - Kylemore Abbey is a haven of history, beauty and serenity and is centre to Connemara Wild Atlantic Way. Home to a Benedictine order of Nuns for the past 100 years, Kylemore Abbey here we embrace the magic of the magnificent 1,000-acre estate. Colleen is a former student of this magical places. Castle was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman, for his wife. You can view the victoria walled gardens and enjoy so lovely freshly prepared food .
  • Sky Road - The Sky Road is one of the most popular places to visit in Galway and is the most popular of the many things to do in Clifden.
  • Ballynahinch Castle - Ballynahinch has been intertwined in the history of Connemara and its people for centuries, from the recorded battle between the O’Flahertys and O’Malleys, in 1384, to the visit by all the Lord Mayors and Mayors of Ireland and some from overseas, to celebrate the Quincentennial year of Galway city receiving its charter.
    Ballynahinch i.e. Baile na hlnse, means ‘household of the Island’, and refers to the O’Flaherty Castle built on an Island in the lake.
  • Clifden Castle - This built by John d’Arcy in a Gothic Revival style between 1812 and 1815. In the latter half of the 19th century due to famine and a change in the D’arcy family fortunes Clifden Castle fell into disrepair.
What's Included
  • Entrance fee into Aughnanure Castle
  • Fully guided tour of Connemara
  • Entrance fee into Kylemore Abbey
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Welcome to Castles of Connemara Tour. On this tour we visit some of Connemara majestic castles. Aughnanure castle is the ancestor home of O’Flaherty Clan, and connections to Grace O’Malley. Our journey continues through the 12 Bens mountain range and unspoilt Connemara landscape. The next stop is Kylemore Abbey and Victoria Walled Gardens, were you can explore the beautiful grounds, as its nestled between mountain and lakes. You can take in the fabulous views of the scenic sky road on route to Clifden.

  • Transportation time is already included in the total duration of the tour.
Location
Galway Cathedral
Gaol Road
We meet guests at the door facing the river and Salmon weir bridge and new foot bridge.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1
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June 2024
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