- Aughnanure Castle - Our first castle visit is to Aughnanure Castle. This castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to Lough Corrib and village of Oughterard. Built by the O’Flahertys, one of Connacht’s most notable lord families in 1500 and standing on what is a rocky island on the shores of Lough Corrib. This castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. On this visit you will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and dry harbour. Grace O’Malley, the notorious west of Ireland sea pirate was married to Donal O’Flaherty.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden - Kylemore Abbey, first founded by English industrialist Mitchell Henry as a present to his wife and now a Benedictine monastery. The next few hours are up to you to explore this romantic abbey, its Victorian walled gardens and Gothic church. Choose to treat yourself to refreshments at the onsite café for lunch.
- Ballynahinch Castle - This castle is steeped in history and is connected to one of the 14 tribes of Galway the Martin family. Richard Martin was the founder of the RSPCA. Another Martin was Edward Martin who was very friendly with WB Yeats and Lady Gregory and later went on to establish the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. We take a short break to explore the castle and estate grounds including the newly restored walled garden before sitting down to some delicious castle tea & scones.
- Entrance to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens
- Admission to Aughnanure Castle
- Guided Connemara tour in a minivan
- Pickup and drop-off from Galway city hotels
- Tea/coffee and scones at Ballynahinch Castle or Kylemore Abbey
- Gratuities
- Lunch
Embark on a journey to the picturesque Connemara region, known for its untamed landscapes and breathtaking coastlines, with a pick-up service from your hotel included.
Our exploration starts with Aughnanure Castle. Constructed by the O’Flahertys in 1500, this castle is a remarkably well-maintained example of an Irish tower house.
Our sojourn then takes us to the charming village of Oughterard for a quick coffee break.
Proceeding through the scenic landscapes of Connemara, we next visit Kylemore Abbey. Established by English industrialist Mitchell Henry and currently a Benedictine monastery, spend some time immersing yourself in this romantic abbey, its Victorian walled gardens, and Gothic church.
Moving on to Clifden, known as the capital of Connemara, we get the chance to drive through the renowned Sky Road, weather permitting.
Our journey continues to Ballynahinch Castle where we’ll take a brief pause to tour the castle and its estate grounds including the walled garden. Relish tea & scones before heading back to Galway City.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
