Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park Overview

Connemara National Park, located near the Gaeltacht border, spans 2000 hectares and features mountains, bogs, and grasslands teeming with wildlife. It includes four peaks from the Twelve Bens range, with Benbaun being the tallest at 730 meters. The Glanmore Valley, with the Polladirk River running through it, is at the heart of the park. Visitors can find remnants of ancient settlements, such as 4,000-year-old megalithic tombs and old grazing areas.

History

The park has a fascinating past. Initially established in 1838 by a proponent of white supremacy, the estate changed ownership several times, with racial segregation continuing post-Reconstruction. In 1945, Carl Sandburg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, bought the property and named it “”Connemara”” to honor his Irish roots. Sandburg made it his permanent home, expanding the barn for animals and adding trails and gardens.

How to Get There

Driving from Dublin to Connemara National Park takes about 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Dublin to Galway with Irish Rail, Go Bus, Bus Eireann, or Citylink. From Galway City, Citylink offers a direct bus to the park’s entrance at Letterfrack.

Attractions

– Diamond Hill Mountain Trail: This trail is the highlight of the park, offering stunning views from the top. It’s suitable for all walkers, including kids as young as eight.

– Walking Trails: There are four trails on Diamond Hill, from the 1km Ellis Wood trail to the 4km Upper Diamond Hill trail. The Upper Diamond Hill trail is the most scenic and challenging, about 6km long, taking roughly 3 hours.

– Visitor Centre: Features an audio-visual show and a photo display of Connemara’s landscapes. There are also picnic spots, nature trails, and a summer series of walks and talks.

– Other Attractions: The park is part of the larger Connemara region, which includes Aasleagh Falls, Aughnanure Castle, Brigit’s Garden & Café, Castlekirk, Cleggan, Clifden Castle, and Kylemore Abbey & Walled Victorian Gardens.

Ticket Information

Connemara National Park is open year-round with free admission. The Visitor Centre operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except on Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day. For more details, call 095 41054 or check the website.

Tips for Visiting

1. Weather: Be ready for unpredictable weather, especially on the Upper Diamond Hill trail. Bring waterproof gear, snacks, and drinks.

2. Safety: Keep dogs on leads to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.

3. Trail Conditions: Lower trails have well-maintained paths, duckboards, or steps. The Upper Diamond Hill route is steep and rough but manageable for active kids.

4. Duration: Plan for about 3 hours to complete the full Diamond Hill circuit, including both Lower and Upper trails.

5. Panoramic Views: Enjoy 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, Twelve Bens, Tully Mountain, and Kylemore Abbey from Diamond Hill’s summit. Connemara National Park is a unique destination that combines natural beauty with historical depth, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Ireland.