Connemara on Foot and by Bike: Between Sea and Mountains

After a hearty Irish breakfast, we'll drive you to the starting point of today's hike. The Famine Trail, which runs along Killary Fjord, was originally built as a relief project during the Great Famine of the 1840s. Offering spectacular views of the fjord, the rugged coastline, and the majestic mountains that frame it, this walk is a true immersion in nature.

At the end of the trail, you will have the opportunity to visit Tom's sheep farm before returning to Leenane.

You will spend a second night in Leenane, where we suggest you end the day with a nice cold pint of Guinness in a traditional West of Ireland pub.

Today's walk follows an ancient pilgrimage route to Maumean, the "Birds' Passage." The summit of Maumean is marked by a small chapel and other religious elements associated with St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This site is steeped in ritual and myth, offering a fascinating glimpse into religious practices in Ireland centuries ago.

The route then takes you onto the Mám Éan Geotrail, a captivating trail that explores the geological links between western Ireland and northeastern America, once connected before being separated 100 million years ago by the Atlantic Ocean!

You will then follow the Western Way, a marked trail surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, to the peaceful Inagh Valley. Tonight, you will stay in charming accommodation overlooking Lough Inagh, one of Connemara's most spectacular lakes, nestled between the majestic Maamturk and Twelve Bens mountains. A true haven of peace for complete relaxation after a day immersed in nature.

Your bike and equipment will be waiting for you at your accommodation, giving you the opportunity to try everything out and make sure everything is perfect before your cycling adventure begins the next morning.

Today's bike ride takes you west, from the tranquil shores of Lough Inagh to the rugged beauty of the Renvyle Peninsula—a dramatic, isolated coastline jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you'll ride through some of Connemara's most stunning scenery, from majestic mountains and shimmering lakes to breathtaking seascapes.

You will have the opportunity to stop and visit Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century castle situated on the shores of a lake, set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. Explore its elegant rooms, walled Victorian gardens, and magnificent Gothic chapel—an unforgettable glimpse into Irish romanticism.

From there, continue your journey to Renvyle, where archaeological sites, historical ruins, and white sandy beaches await. You will spend the night in this rugged natural setting, enveloped in the tranquil charm of Ireland's far west.

Today's journey takes you along peaceful coastal roads, from Renvyle to the fishing village of Cleggan, where you will take the ferry to the island of Inishbofin — "Inis Bo Finne", the White Cow Island.

Along the way, you will pass through Letterfrack, the gateway to Connemara National Park. It's an ideal place to take a break, enjoy a coffee, or stretch your legs on one of the park's loop trails, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and surrounding peaks.

From Cleggan, a 40-minute ferry crossing will take you to Inishbofin, an island rich in myth and history. As you approach the port, you'll see the signal tower and the ruins of a 16th-century barracks, once used to imprison Catholic priests under the English Statute of 1585.

Inhabited for over 6,000 years, the island has welcomed fishermen, monks, and adventurers. Today, its small community of around 200 inhabitants offers a warm welcome and a rare immersion into traditional island life—you might even be drawn into a pub by the sounds of live traditional music.

After an early breakfast in Inishbofin, you'll take the ferry back to the mainland at Cleggan. From there, today's bike ride takes you along the famous Sky Road, where stunning seascapes unfold at every turn.

Your destination is Clifden, the vibrant "capital of Connemara." With its charming streets, colorful shops, welcoming pubs, and lively traditional music scene, Clifden offers a friendly atmosphere where visitors quickly feel at home. Enjoy the evening soaking up the culture and conviviality of this iconic town.

After a hearty Irish breakfast, your final day of cycling will offer you the opportunity to explore this wild and beautiful corner of western Ireland.

From here, you can choose to explore southern Connemara, where your journey will take you to the heart of the Gaeltacht region, where Gaelic is still spoken. Listen to this ancient and musical language that resonates all around you. You can also visit the Roundstone Peninsula, where ancient peat bogs meet vast golden beaches, and where every inch of land is steeped in history. The picturesque fishing village of Roundstone has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and all those seeking escape from the hustle and bustle of the world.

Your route will then take you back to Clifden, where you will spend another night.

After breakfast, your tour concludes and it's time to continue your journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Ireland. Slán go fóill! – we hope to see you again soon.