“Connemara is a savage beauty”, as Oscar Wilde put it. Come with us and discover the raw landscapes and coast of Connemara.
The name Connemara is Irish for “Inlets of the Sea” and the coastal roads bear this out as they wind around the small bays and coves of this part of the Wild Atlantic Way, some with hidden beaches.
Connemara is a kaleidoscope of rusty bogs, lonely valleys, and shimmering black lakes. At its heart are the Maumturk Mountains and the peaks of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
Information on Connemara
Attractions
Connemara is a sporting paradise. With our temperate climate, most of our activities can be enjoyed all year round. And as there is just so much to do, we will have to try and condense it into a few lines.
There is golf and pitch and putt, both on magnificent links courses and stunning inland locations. Fishing on rivers, lakes, and the sea, could reward you with salmon, trout, cod, ling, and even tuna. Our quiet minor roads are perfect for cycling, and with many loops available you won’t have to see the same scenery twice, such a pity, but you can always go back again. With plenty of scope for horse riding and pony trekking, our equestrian visitors will find the mountain, bog, and seashore, a special place from the back of our renowned Connemara Pony.
How about walking or hiking, long and short waymarked tracks in some of the most unspoiled countryside, or along the ocean or through the tranquil bogs. An experience never to be forgotten. Then there are more challenging activities, rock climbing, scuba diving, sailing, mountain climbing, swimming in the sea, and in pools, to name but a few.
If being a spectator is your style, you can watch marathons being run through a landscape to take your breath away. Golf competitions, horse racing on the beach, and on wonderful open grassland. Gaelic football, rugby, and soccer can be watched, and tag rugby played on a beach is unique. Boat races and regattas take place throughout the summer and the wonderful curragh races have to be seen.
Camping and caravans allow you to experience the freedom of this area and bring you close to nature.
Getting close to nature is so easy in Connemara, unique flora and fauna, make it a paradise for botanists and ornithologists, and geologists can’t get enough of our rocks. And with such a range of habitats, in such a small area, we go from islands, deep oceans, interesting beaches, grassland, bog, lake, river, and mountain, you are bound to find something which interests you. We also have a range of beautiful and interesting gardens, which
display an almost subtropical style, due to the Gulf Stream, passing our coast. There is also ample opportunity for the artist, with wonderful scenery at almost every corner of the road.If all that activity is asking a little too much, you can slow down and experience the cultural side of Connemara, Traditional music, singing, and dancing can be discovered throughout the area, on a nightly basis, and then there are the internationally renowned arts festivals which take place during the year, a feast of music, art, poetry, and drama.
And talking of feasts brings us to food and drink. We have a range of superb restaurants, cafes and bars which serve a wonderful array of local dishes, especially, seafood and lamb. You will find something to suit all pockets and tastes.
If its history your after, you have come to the right place, around 5000 years to be discovered. We have megalithic stones, tombs, stone and earth forts, early Christian churches, castles, both ruined and inhabited, 19th-century houses and the Marconi Wireless Station, and the landing place of Alcock and Brown.
Lastly but by no means least, are the people of Connemara, young and old alike, always ready for a chat, to play music, or tell a story, all with a charm which is summed up in the Gaelic saying Cead Mile Failte, a hundred thousand welcomes.
Dining Out
O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar, Restaurant & Cafe
O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar, Restaurant and Café is located in the centre of Roundstone village overlooking the harbour with panoramic views over Roundstone Bay and the Twelve Bens. It has been run by the O’Dowd family for four generations since 1906. A bar has been operating on the premises since 1840 and it is widely regarded as the oldest pub in Connemara. It is now famous for its excellent fresh local seafood and it has one of the best pints of Guinness in the locality.
Jasmine Garden – Asian Restaurant
Jasmine Garden offers authentic Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. Experienced head chef Raymond Wong brings to you delicious Chinese dishes with that ‘homemade’ taste that will be sure to please all patrons. The restaurant has two spacious dining rooms which are tastefully decorated with exotic pieces of Chinese furniture to create that special ambiance.
Market Street, Clifden, Co. Galway Tel: +353 (0)95 21174
The Central Bar
Fabulous food served daily until 9pm and the very best of Traditional music and song from Friday to Sunday
The Central Bar & Restaurant, Main Street, Clifden
Tel: 095 21430 Email: [email protected]
Eldon’s Hotel, Bar and Beola Restaurant
Eldons Hotel and Restaurant is a family-run 12 bedroom hotel situated in Roundstone village, overlooking Roundstone harbour. The Hotel has a wonderful backdrop view of the Twelve Bens Mountain range. It is situated on the rugged and beautiful Wild Atlantic Way coastline route, approximately halfway between Cork and Donegal. It is a perfect resting point along this route. The hotel location is an ideal base from where you can discover all that Connemara has to offer; fishing, golfing, walking, watersports and horse riding to mention just a few. The Beola Restaurant was first established on the site of one of Roundstone’s oldest buildings. In the early nineteen nineties, it was extended to include Eldon’s Hotel and Bar. Roundstone is a beautiful old fishing village which has for centuries provided fresh fish and shellfish to local residents and businesses. Fresh local produce such as crab, oysters, mussels and lobster are all featured on our Beola Restaurant Menus.
The Lodge Restaurant, Letterfrack
The Lodge Restaurant is a new boutique restaurant in the heart of Connemara offering an eclectic creative food experience. Locally sourced natural fresh ingredients and produce, majestic atmosphere, and an offbeat team of dedicated food professionals pushing the boundaries. The Lodge is all about a wonderful experience.
The Lodge Restaurant offers fresh local produce, Italian coffee and global wines in a laid back, chic atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8 am to 11 pm, seven days a week. A great option after a hike in the Connemara National Park and for those looking for a taste of Connemara with a twist!
We bake fresh bread and scones every morning and use only pure Irish butter. Our jam is made four miles away in Moyard. Our salads are 100% organic and grown beside the sea in Cleggan. We use Maldon sea salt on all our tables and in our kitchen. We use only Connemara Lamb. We grow our own mussels on Killary Harbour and know the people who catch our fish. Meats are provided by the village butcher. We hand-cut our own chips in-house. Almost everything on the menu is made from scratch. We use generations-old recipes that we’ve ‘borrowed’ with great stealth from crafty chefs over the years. With our expertise and dedication to good food we know you will remember your experience at the Lodge.
Tel: +353 (0)95 41222 Web: lodge.ie
The Marconi Restaurant
The Marconi Restaurant is a charming family-run restaurant managed personally by the Foyles for over a century. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally where possible, specialising in seafood and traditional Irish favourites. The Marconi is set in distinctive surroundings, full of artefacts covering the history of Connemara and the hotel. Expect a professional, friendly service and creative cooking offered at a fair price and in a relaxed ambience. A major part of the Foyles Hotel’s reputation is based on the excellence of its cuisine. As a dining venue the hotel is acclaimed by local and overseas visitors alike.
Doonmore Hotel (Inishbofin)
The Doonmore Hotel, Restaurant and Bar, owned and managed by the Murray family for three generations. This uniquely situated island hotel, with panoramic sea views, offers excellent food and friendly service, combined with comfortable accommodation and a welcoming atmosphere. Murray’s Bar is famous for its traditional music sessions and congenial atmosphere. Award-winning bar food menu served all day with delicious seafood and home-baked foods our speciality. Our restaurant offers an imaginative choice of food and wine in an intimate and memorable setting. Function and conference facilities with personalised service for your special occasion: your wedding day, family celebration, party, and we also cater for company/agency conferences. Gym facilities, angling, walking and diving facilities, with compressor bottle bank and drying room.
T: +353 95 45814/04
Off The Square Restaurant
P.J. and Maureen Heffernan welcome you to the spacious Off The Square Restaurant, one of the finest seafood restaurants in Clifden. Connemara is blessed with the best of natural produce: Oysters and Crab from Aughrismore, Scallops and Lobsters from Cleggan village, delicious lamb from the renown Connemara Blackface sheep, succulent fillets and sirloin of Connemara Beef, and much more. All of this produce goes into Off The Square’s fabulous meals.
No visit to Connemara is complete without a meal at Off The Square, be it our Full Irish Breakfast, Lunch Specials, or indeed our heart-warming Dinners. Wine is served by the bottle or glass, as is a variety of beers, and our Desserts are not to be missed! Spacious and welcoming, you can find us on Clifden’s Main Street – just ‘off the Square!’
Oliver’s Seafood Restaurant, Bar and B&B
Oliver’s is located in the heart of Cleggan fishing village overlooking the harbor. Our first-class restaurant specialises in the freshest of seafood, locally produced foods and cheeses, and the finest Connemara lamb and prime beef.
Our restaurant overlooks the busy fishing harbour of Cleggan where most of our fresh fish comes from. Sample a wide range of fresh local fish and meat dishes, complemented by the finest vegetables and salads. Seasonal highlights of the food produced in the area are the wild salmon, Connemara lamb and several delicious varieties of flatfish. You can also pick your own live lobster from our chilled seawater tank in the restaurant.
Enjoy a vintage from our Wine List, specially selected to complement our cuisine. And why not finish off a perfect meal with Irish cheese or one of our homemade desserts?
For Reservations dial: +353 95 44640. Restaurant opening times are seasonal, so please check ahead.
Station House Restaurant
The Station House Restaurant at the Clifden Station House Hotel in Connemara is a must during your visit to Clifden. Our award-winning chef has combined the very best of local produce from both the land and sea, creating unique menus that will make your visit to our restaurant one to remember.
Breakfast: served daily 7.30 am to 10.30 am in the main dining room is sure to get your day off to the very best of starts, with a fantastic choice from our buffet table, including pastries, fresh fruit salad, and much more, as well as our famous Irish breakfast, or indeed why not try our pancakes made right in front of you!
Dinner: Served daily from 6.30 pm with last sittings at 9 pm, the staff look forward to welcoming you, and helping to make your dining experience very special. Why not treat yourself to a bottle of fine wine from our extensive menu, and be sure to ask for the specials.
Derryclare Restaurant
Our mission is simple: homemade, organic and sustainable food straight to your table. Enjoy our seasonal menus, locally sourced artisan food and craft beers.
Derryclare Restaurant is a family-run, family-friendly restaurant well situated on Clifden’s bustling square, walking distance from the town’s playground, craft shops and bars. They offer the best of what Clifden and Connemara has to offer: local seafood such as Connemara smoked salmon, Cleggan crab and Atlantic sea bass; Connemara lamb, Irish beef and Clifden’s very own award-winning black pudding. To accompany this mouthwatering local cuisine they serve local craft beers, ales and ciders, and a carefully selected wine list from The Vineyard Wine, Galway.
The Beach Day’s Bar (Inishbofin)
Very well located on Inishbofin’s waterfront, our bar in Inishbofin has been established for the best part of a century, has passed through four generations and has always had a warm welcome for landlubbers and seafarers alike. The bar has a lovely warm welcoming feel to it, with an open fire, a great pint of Guinness, a selection of beers and spirits from all over the globe and an ever-expanding list of wines from the old and new world with something to please every wine lover. Bar food is served from noon till late every day.
Cloverfox Restaurant, Bar, Craft Shop and Hostel, Letterfrack
A warm welcome awaits you at the friendly, family-run Cloverfox Connemara Holiday Hostel, located in the centre of Letterfrack village at the pedestrian entrance to the Connemara National Park.
Cloverfox Connemara Holiday Hostel is located just 10km from Clifden, at the beginning of the exceptionally picturesque Renvyle Peninsula. It is an ideal base for a diverse range of activities such as walking, cycling, hiking, sailing, fishing and boat trips and is the closest budget accommodation to the iconic Kylemore Abbey Estate and Walled Gardens.
Nearby attractions also include outdoor adventure centers, Scubadive West, and all that the renowned Connemara National Park has to offer, including the popular Diamond Hill hike.
12 newly refurbished en suite rooms offer great value, comfortable budget accommodation, and provide an ideal base for exploring Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way.
2, 3, 4, 5 and 6-bed rooms are available to accommodate any sleeping arrangements requested when possible. Our spacious rooms include guest kitchen, dining and lounge areas.
Mitchell’s Seafood Restaurant
Winner of Best Seafood Restaurant in Ireland 2015. Since opening almost twenty years ago, this family-run restaurant has long attracted visitors for its excellent seafood and imaginative cooking of the freshest fish and shellfish. There is also a great choice for non-seafood eaters. Open daily 12-10pm from March to October.
Lunch Menu until 6 pm – Special Value Menu Every Evening
(excludes Saturdays and Bank Holidays)
Mitchell’s Seafood Restaurant, Market Street, Clifden, Co. Galway Tel: 095 21867
Shopping
Avoca
The Avoca store in Connemara, on Ireland’s dramatic Atlantic coast is situated right on the shores of Ballinakil Bay on the main Clifden – Westport road at Letterfrack. A must-see for visitors to Connemara, the shop combines the very best of Irish crafts, gifts, clothes and soft furnishings, all with a view out across a magnificent rugged coastline and rolling hills of Connemara National Park. It is the ideal place to pick up gifts or something special for yourself. There’s something for everyone from womenswear to outdoor gear to delicious food from the Avoca Pantry range, perfect for that beach or mountainside picnic on the Twelve Pins.There is also a large selection of scarves, rugs and throws in fine mohairs, lambswool and cashmere in many cases woven at the family Mill in Avoca Village, Co Wicklow. Working for many years with talented Irish craftspeople, the store provides an exciting selection of exclusive gifts and accessories including glass, leather, pottery, silk, ironwork, jewelry, organic farming produce, perfumes and candles. Avoca is an Irish family-run business that spans one of the world’s oldest surviving manufacturing companies and Ireland’s most exciting stores. The beautifully bright and airy café is also worth a visit to rest tired legs after a morning of sightseeing.
https://www.avoca.ie
Stanley’s
Stanley’s is a sixth generation family-run business which has been in operation since 1824 when the town of Clifden just began.
They specialise in ladies and mens casual clothing, Irish knitwear, tweeds and a large selection of outdoor clothing and footwear. Stanley’s is a one-stop shop for all your needs – well worth a visit!
Tel: +353 (0)95 21039. Join them on Facebook
Lowry’s Sweater and Gift Shop
Lowry’s Sweater and Gift Shop is one of Clifden’s family establishments offering an extensive range of the finest Irish merchandise. Traditional style sweaters and accessories, grandfather shirts, t-shirts, retro hoodies, hats, caps, Guinness branded clothing range and souvenir gifts, Thomas Joseph sheep themed gifts and Wacky Woolly gift range.
Tel: +353 (0)95 21139. Email: [email protected] Join them on Facebook.
All Things Connemara
Local Crafts & Artisan Produce
Connemara has a wealth of artisan producers making everything from pottery, baskets, sea-weed based cosmetics to knit ware and paintings. There is no better way to get the flavour of a place than by Sampling the local produce. You will find them here at All Things Connemara.
Take some time in All Things Connemara before you set out and we can help you plan a family adventure that’ll leave you with memories that will stay with you forever. Connemara has a wealth of artisan producers making everything from pottery, baskets, sea-weed based cosmetics to knit ware and paintings. You will find them here at All Things Connemara. There is no better way to get the flavour of a place than by Sampling the local produce.
Find us:
Bike Electric Connemara at All Things Connemara,
(Open 7 days a week) Market Street (beside the bus stop),
Clifden, Connemara, Co. Galway Call: +353 (0)95 22630
www.bikeelectric.ie Email: [email protected]
Cottage Handcrafts
Irish Knitwear, Gift and Craft Shop
Cottage Handcrafts is an Irish knitwear, gift and craft shop. Each year we go out and source the best of Irish craft. This involves many trips around the country visiting craft workers and manufacturers and attending craft fairs with the aim to showcase the best of Irish creativity and design.
Cottage Handcrafts is a family run business stocking a wide selection of Irish knitwear, from the traditional handknit Aran sweater to cosy, contemporary knits and woolen accessories, handmade jewellery, handmade pottery and glass, knitting wool and patterns, local crafts and paintings.
Cottage Handcrafts, Moyard, Co. Galway (5 miles from Clifden on the Westport Road)
Tel: +353 (0)95 41029 Web: www.cottagehandcrafts.ie Email: [email protected]
Joyce’s Craft Shop & Art Gallery
Located in Recess village, 13 miles from Clifden on the main N59 road to Galway City, Joyce’s Craft Shop and Art Gallery is one of the best craft shops in Ireland, as well as being the home of the famous Connemara green marble. Wide range of knitwear, rare books, antiques, hand-made jewellery and original gifts. Touch the hand of the ‘Connemara Giant’ across the street.
Tel: +353 (0)95 34604
Connemara Smokehouse
Share the Roberts family’s incredible passion for handmade quality food
Ireland’s first Food Économusée, this family-run business offers regular tastings of the best quality traditional smoked salmon. Visitors are welcome at anytime.
Tours every Wednesday at 3pm during June, July and August (booking advisable, children half price). Private tours available all year (booking essential).
Tours include filleting and slicing demonstrations along with explanation of salting and smoking techniques, followed by a tasting of smoked salmon. Open Mon-Fri 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm (closed weekends). The Connemara Smokehouse products are also available in some local shops.
Standun
A famous tourist destination for over 65 years, Standún in Spiddal, County Galway is a store steeped in tradition known for its huge selection of Aran sweaters and well known Irish fashion labels.
The Standún family have owned and managed this department store for three generations and built a reputation for the range of quality Irish goods including hand knits, delicate pottery, traditional tweeds and stunning hand-cut crystal.
Standún was the first business to export the Aran sweater to the US, supplying large department stores such as Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor. At one stage there were over 700 women around the country knitting pieces of Aran sweaters that were then assembled in the store. Today, Standún still provides a selection of great value Aran sweaters.
As well as the range of Irish products available, visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee and some home baking overlooking stunning views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands.
Alan Gaillard Stoneware Pottery
Handmade Tableware, Lamps, Giftware, One-off Ceramics, Felt Artwork
Gaillard Pottery was first created in the early 1970’s in Dublin and Wicklow by Alan Gaillard and re-opened in 2009 at his new purpose-built studios in Clifden, Connemara. Using all natural raw materials for his glazes Alan produces a range of high-fired stoneware ceramics, including table and ovenware, lamps, giftware and also individual one-off pieces that are ideal for wedding presents or as gifts for special occasions. Alan’s unique work also combines intricate beach-combed driftwood and 4000 year old bogwood uncannily moulded by the sea into life-like forms, with hand-built ceramic bases.
Alan Gaillard Stoneware Pottery, Wool & Felt Art Studios, The Stone House, Westport Road, Clifden
Visitors are most welcome to visit us at our studios situated only 2 km from Clifden on the main N59 road to Westport, where you can also see the felt art landscapes by Alan’s wife Sandra.
Hehirs of Clifden
Ladies, Gents and Children Fashion
Hehirs of Clifden is a family-run business, specialising in quality Irish knitwear. They also stock a wide range of footwear, outdoor clothing and souvenirs.
Brian and Michele welcome you to their store and are more than happy to help you with your shopping requirements. They will post your goods home for you and will refund your VAT in store.
For a shopping experience with that personal touch, please call and visit Hehir’s Woollen Store, located in the heart of Clifden, the capital of Connemara. It is a treasure trove of ladies and gents fashion, knitwear and footwear – you never know what you might find!
The Bens Music and Picture Framing
Come and visit The Bens Music and Picture Framing shop in Clifden.
Personalised Irish bodhrans designed.
The best collection of traditional Irish music available.
Wide selection of Irish traditional, folk, ballads, and country C.Ds and DVDs available. Albums of almost all Local Musicians available.
- Musical Instruments and accessories.
- Bodrans can be personalised with family crests/coat of arms and custom designs.
- Personalised Gifts and Picture Framing.
- Selection of frame mouldings and mountings etc.
Contact John at 09522680/0861031154
The Craft & Design Shop at Kylemore Abbey
Your ultimate shopping experience in Connemara
At the Craft and Design Shop at Kylemore Abbey you will find a huge variety of Irish and international souvenirs, giftware, fashions and jewellery. Now stocking brands such as Barbour, Magee, Genesis, Timberland, Guinness clothing and Orla Kiely.
Also available are soaps and body lotions produced by Sister Genevieve from the Bendictine Community as well as a wide variety of clothing, accessories, books, postcards, jewellery, pottery and tempting delights. Kylemore is also renowned for its finest Jams, Marmalades and Chutney produced to an age old recipe, generously bestowed by the Benedictine Community.
The exclusive Kylemore Jams, Marmalades, and Chutney, which are available throughout the year, make a wonderful small gift and are presented in flavours to suit all palates such as Plum & Brandy, Lingonberry (wild cranberry) and Apple & Mint chutney.
You’ll discover fantastic value in all areas from the high quality fashion ranges, and the unique pottery to the tempting and exclusive Kylemore foodstuffs.
Joyce’s Craft Shop & Art Gallery
Located in Recess village, 13 miles from Clifden on the main N59 road to Galway City, Joyce’s Craft Shop and Art Gallery is one of the best craft shops in Ireland, as well as being the home of the famous Connemara green marble. Wide range of knitwear, rare books, antiques, hand-made jewellery and original gifts. Touch the hand of the ‘Connemara Giant’ across the street.
Tel: +353 (0)95 34604
The Clifden Bookshop
Local Interest, Irish History, Guide Books, Maps, Postcards, Fiction, Bestsellers
The Clifden Bookshop, situated on Main Street in Clifden, capital of Connemara, opened its doors in December 1997. It was set up to cater for a niche market of visiting tourists and a broad range of local customers who have continued to be loyal and steadfast in supporting their local bookshop. There is a comprehensive range of titles in store with particular emphasis on local Connemara history, Irish Literature, guide books, maps and memoirs. There is also a wide selection of Artist’s materials, Cards and Stationery in stock at all times.
The Clifden Bookshop also offers an ordering and mail-order service alongside this web-site facility. Whilst we may have a small retail space, we offer exceptional service and product knowledge. If you find yourself in beautiful Clifden in Connemara, do pop in to say hello or drop us a note online, we would welcome your comments and observations.
Local Interest, Irish History, Guide Books, Maps, Postcards, Fiction, Bestsellers The Clifden Bookshop, situated on Main Street in Clifden, capital of Connemara, opened its doors in
Gannon Sports
Located in the heart of Clifden on Market Square, Gannon Sports is a multisport and outdoor store stocking all the leading brands including Quiksilver, Roxy, Helly Hansen, Adidas and Centerburg. They also provide t-shirt printing and embroidery services. Leading Irish brands including ONeils of Dublin are also available.
- Tax-free shopping and credit cards accepted. Join them on Facebook.
- Tel: +353 (0)95 22268. Email: [email protected]
Millars Connemara
A unique shopping experience in luxurious surroundings.
Millars Connemara has been trading in Clifden for well over a century. The store houses designer clothing, homeware and a large selection of gifts for him, for her or for home – including famous Irish and international labels such as Oska, Bi Ti Mo, Gabi Lauton, John Hanly, Dubarry and Foxford.
We invite you to see our new Dubarry in-store
Dubarry collection includes outdoor wear, sporting jackets, yachting apparel and footwear for both ladies and gents.
Millars Connemara, Main Street, Clifden, Co. Galway
Ohh! By Gum
Ohh! By Gum is one of Ireland’s first Eco-Chic Boutiques – supplying many fair trade and sustainable fashion labels for kiddies and grown ups. Chosen as “The Best Boutique in Ireland” by the Irish Times and their readership. Ohh! By Gum has two outlets in Clifden, County Galway: at the heart of the Clifden Station House Courtyard, and also uptown on Market Street, Clifden. You can also shop online at ohhbygum.ie
Open 7 days, Monday-Saturday 10-6 and Sunday 12-5.
“The Best Boutique in Ireland”
voted by the Irish Times and their readership
“One of the Best 30 Shops in Ireland”
Design Platform
An absolute must when visiting Clifden
Design Platform has been in business for over 10 years and has built up a large clientele from all over the country who know that a trip to the shop is an ‘absolute must’ when visiting Clifden. Design Platform is well known for its unique collections, spacious shop and luxurious changing rooms.
The shopping experience in the Design Platform is completely stress-free and you will enjoy our excellent customer care. We are constantly on the look out for those new and exciting labels that has made Design Platform a shopping destination for so many customers over the years.
Fashion without limits
Our labels include Sarah Pacini, Eva Kayan, Annette Gortz, Lillith, Lunn, Stills, Noa Noa, Out of Exile, Amazing Woman and many more that incorporate in their collections that smart casual look with a twist, and also offering evening or special occasion pieces.
O’Dalaigh Jewellers
Steeped in Celtic History
The West coast of Ireland where we live is steeped in Celtic history from the earliest times. Ireland is one of the last places in Europe where the Celtic traditions, language, and way of life survived, mainly because the Romans did not invade it.
Jewellery and Commission Metal Work
We have been making jewellery and commission metal work since the early seventies, and also make one off, unique pieces to your design. We have expertise in wedding rings, sculptural wax carving, metal carving, etching, fabrication, stone setting, we work in any metal and any carat, and would be delighted to give you a price quote on any project you might have in mind. The Family tradition is being carried on by our son Jonathan who is trained as a jeweller, and is working in our family run jewellery shop, O’Dalaigh Jewellers in main street Clifden, Co Galway. This shop is closed from January to March 17th. We also have our second jewellery shop at the newly renovated Cliffs of Moher Experience, we are one of the six craft units besdie the Cliffs of Moher centre, Co Clare. This shop is closed from Nov to March. You can Fax +353-91-632296 or email your design to us.
Connemara Blue Hand-Crafted Glass
Kiln-formed fused glass by Ben Crow
Kiln-formed fused glass by Ben Crow, inspired by the colours and moods of the spectacular landscape of Connemara. The infinite blues of the sky, rivers, lakes and sea inspired the name ‘Connemara Blue’.
Fused Glass Process
Creating fused glass involves shaping pieces of glass and firing them in a hot kiln (typically 740-810C) to access the fluid qualities of the material at those temperatures. Preparing the glass can be painstaking and demanding of both time and patience. Shaping and cutting the glass and then assembling the components can be very satisfying, but hours of work (on what is a very brittle and unforgiving material when cold) can be wasted with one small slip of the cutter.
About Ben Crow
As a young man I went to see some works by the Catalan painter, sculptor and ceramicist, Joan Miró (1893-1983). Now, decades later, in designing for the kiln I have discovered a liking for the chaotic geometry I found in his surrealist paintings.
I find the gentle curves, flowing lines and varying colours of the Connemara landscape enjoyable to represent in glass. While the predominant colours of Connemara are green and brown, there is also a need to represent the colour blue. The infinite blues of the sky, rivers, lakes and sea are the reason I call my work Connemara Blue.
The Pink House, Market Square, Clifden
Nightlife
Guy’s Bar & Snug
Guy’s Bar in Clifden is the number 1 spot for food, drink, music and nightlife in Connemara! One of the oldest bars in Clifden, mixing old and new traditions, with all day bar food until 9 pm. Snug available for private parties. Seafood, real coffee, live music. Guys Bar is worth visiting.
Relax in a warm and friendly atmosphere where old and new traditions meet. Our extensive food menu includes summer seafood specials, soups, chowder, BLTs, wraps, paninis, baps, club sandwiches, traditional fish & chips, beef and Guinness stew, homemade house burger, salads, homemade desserts and gluten-free options.
We also serve take-away pizzas, cappuccinos, lattes, espresso and herbal teas. Breakfast served until 1pm and all day on Sunday.
Oliver’s Seafood Restaurant, Bar and B&B
Oliver’s is located in the heart of Cleggan fishing village overlooking the harbour. Our first-class restaurant specialises in the freshest of seafood, locally produced foods and cheeses, and the finest Connemara lamb and prime beef.
Our restaurant overlooks the busy fishing harbour of Cleggan where most of our fresh fish comes from. Sample a wide range of fresh local fish and meat dishes,complemented by the finest vegetables and salads. Seasonal highlights of the food produced in the area are the wild salmon, Connemara lamb and several delicious varieties of flatfish. You can also pick your own live lobster from our chilled seawater tank in the restaurant.
Enjoy a vintage from our Wine List, specially selected to compliment our cuisine. And why not finish off a perfect meal with Irish cheese, or one of our homemade desserts?
For Reservations phone: 095 44640 (Int 353-9544640) Restaurant opening times are seasonal, so please check ahead.
Lowry’s Traditional Irish Music & Whiskey Bar
Lowry’s Bar Clifden is an Iconic Irish pub, famous throughout Connemara, Galway and beyond for its warm and friendly atmosphere, legendary Irish Music, inviting character and vibrant mix of both locals and visitors.
As a recent winner of the “Best Traditional Bar in Ireland” at the prestigious National Hospitality Awards, Lowry’s Bar Clifden can rightly claim to be one of the best traditional bars in the Country! With live Irish music 7 nights a week in season and a famous whiskey selection as recommended on the renowned Irish Whiskey Trail, coupled with consistently top class reviews on Tripadvisor.ie, Lowry’s Bar Clifden is a must for anyone looking to experience a true Irish pub.
Lowry’s Traditional Irish Music & Whiskey Bar, Market Street, Clifden, Co. Galway
Tel: +353 (0)95 21347
Mannion’s Bar
Mannion’s Bar is one of Clifden’s longest established family-run bar and restaurant, serving food daily from 12 to 9pm and specialising in locally sourced seafood.
Try the fresh Seafood Chowder, Connemara Smoked Salmon, Traditional Fish and Chips or Killary Mussels.
If fish is not your dish, Mannion’s are also famous for their Connemara Lamb Irish Stew and fresh 100% Irish Beef Burgers. Large groups and families catered for with a children’s menu available.
Wi-Fi is available. Live traditional Irish music every evening at 6:30 pm.
Don’t miss Mannions’ lively traditional Irish music sessions!
Tel: +353 (0)95 21780
Signal Bar at Clifden Station House
Nestled in the charming town of Clifden surrounded by the majestic beauty of Connemara The Clifden Station House is Galway’s most popular family hotel. Immersed in the heart of the Wild Atlantic way a stay at The Clifden Station House is one that will live in your memories forever and we guarantee you will return time and time again.
In the center of the Station House Courtyard in Clifden is the tastefully restored station master’s house and train platform, a period building offering a place to relax and enjoy superb food, drink and hospitality.
The menu at the Signal Bar, served from 12-9 pm daily, features mouth-watering dishes made with the finest, freshest ingredients, among which are daily specials of fish caught in the surrounding waters.
Live music on selected nights.
O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar, Restaurant & Cafe
O’Dowd’s Bar has a special traditional pub atmosphere which has remained unchanged for decades. The bar is small & intimate with its traditional turf fire & beautiful views over Roundstone Harbour and the Twelve Bens. You can watch the fishermen unload their catch or just relax in the calm tranquility overlooking Roundstone Bay. Our friendly local staff will be delighted to answer any questions the visitor may have in relation to what to see and do in the area.
Breakfast is available in the bar from 10 am to noon and our full bar menu is available from noon till 9 pm (9.30 pm in summer). We now have a range of excellent Irish craft beers and over twenty different premium Irish whiskeys for you to sample.
Griffin’s Bar
It’s said that Griffin’s Bar serves the best pint of Guinness in Clifden!
Our food is all homemade, and our friendly staff welcomes locals and visitors alike. And when it comes to evening entertainment Griffin’s is where the music is great, from traditional Irish to Country to straight-ahead Rock but its the craic that’s always mighty!
A must for every visitor to Clifden and Connemara!
- Traditional Music Nightly, 8pm till late
- Lunch Served Monday-Saturday 12-5pm
- Large Heated Beer Garden with Big Screen TV
- Fully Air-conditioned
- Pool Table
- 4 Large TV Screens with Sky Sports HD and Big Screen in Back Bar
Main Street, Clifden Tel: +353 (0)95 21370
Eldon’s Hotel, Bar and Beola Restaurant
Eldons Hotel and Restaurant is a family-run 12 bedroom hotel situated in Roundstone village, overlooking Roundstone harbour. The Hotel has a wonderful backdrop view of the Twelve Bens Mountain range. It is situated on the rugged and beautiful Wild Atlantic Way coastline route, approximately halfway between Cork and Donegal. It is a perfect resting point along this route. The hotel location is an ideal base from where you can discover all that Connemara has to offer; fishing, golfing, walking, watersports and horse riding to mention just a few. The Beola Restaurant was first established on the site of one of Roundstone’s oldest buildings. In the early nineteen nineties it was extended to include Eldons Hotel and Bar. Roundstone is a beautiful old fishing village which has for centuries provided fresh fish and shellfish to local residents and businesses. Fresh local produce such as crab, oysters, mussels and lobster are all featured on our Beola Restaurant Menus.
Sweeney’s Strand Bar and Shop
The Omey Experience, done it?
Omey is a beautiful tidal island with a 7th-century church, archaeological sites, a vast strand to explore, wildflowers, bird life – a great family outing!
After a great time exploring Omey, visit Sweeney’s Strand Bar and Shop in Claddaghduff. Enjoy fresh homemade seafood lunches, cold craft beers and pints of creamy Guinness.
Panoramic Views of Omey Strand and Beach from the Bar – Tide Info – Food To-Go – Wine and Beer
Just 15 minutes from Clifden, Omey is a tidal island, please check tide times or ask in the bar for more information.
Sweeneys Strand Bar and Shop
Claddaghduff, Co Galway
Telephone: +353 (0)95 44673
Mullarkey’s Bar (Foyle’s Hotel)
Mullarkey’s Bar is one of Clifden’s premier music venues regulary featuring traditional Irish music and international music acts.
We are located within Foyle’s Hotel but open to the public (the main entrance for the bar is on Church Hill).
Mullarkey’s Bar offers an interesting blend of hotel guests and local characters and is renowned for its Thursday nights open-mic sessions called Baskethouse, impromptu gigs, and all-round good ‘craic’.
Tel: +353 (0) 95 21801
We also have a unique Beer Garden, so all our smoking customers can sit down and enjoy their pint in comfort.
Please ask your tour guide for a visit. We will take care of you.
The Beach Day’s Bar (Inishbofin)
Very well located on Inishbofin’s waterfront
Our bar on Inishbofin has been established for the best part of a century, has passed through four generations and has always had a warm welcome for landlubbers and seafarers alike.
The bar has a lovely warm welcoming feel to it, with an open fire, a great pint of Guinness, a selection of beers and spirits from all over the globe and an ever-expanding list of wines from the old and new world with something to please every wine lover.
Bar food is served from noon till late every day.
E. J. King’s Bar and Restaurant
E.J.’s was established over 100 years ago as a public house run by members of the King family and has dominated the corner of Clifden’s Main Street and Market Street ever since.
A magnet for writers, artists, film-makers and naturalists, Clifden enjoys an international reputation for excellent food, drink and good cheer and E.J.’s is no exception.
Offering a range of dining experiences, E.J.’s can be the ideal venue for a quiet leisurely drink or a cosy lunch before exploring the many attractions of Connemara and finish the day with an intimate dinner followed by a lively music session amongst friends. Live music 7 nights a week in summer.
Famous for our pub food, we specialise in traditional Irish dishes such as Irish Stew, Homemade Chowder, Cod & Chips in Beer Batter and Traditional Seafood Pie. Fresh Oysters, Crab and Smoked Salmon are available, as well as vegetarian and gluten free dishes. And yes, we cater for little ones! Why not try our Value Dining Menu? 2 Courses only €22.50 or 3 Courses only €24.95. Open from 6pm. Enjoy your stay in Clifden!
E.J. King’s Bar and Restaurant, The Square, Clifden, Co. Galway, tel.: +353 (0)95-21330 / 21215
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Bogdan: +353830713524
Sorin: +353831492688