On this tour to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey, expect to take a fascinating look into the traditional way of life on the West Coast of the Emerald Isle! Discover the history that has shaped the region, be prepared to learn a bit of the Irish language, and hear tales of the local residents.
This full-day guided tour has been designed to showcase the best of the West of Ireland, providing an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of this enchanting region. As you travel from Galway City, listen to your expert driver/guide share the origin of the Irish language and how it is still the native language of Connemara, despite its diminishing status in the rest of Ireland.
From the rugged beauty of the Twelve Bens Mountain Range to the serenity of Connemara’s lakes, and encounters with native Connemara ponies and sheep to the charm of traditional thatched cottages, every moment is an invitation to savour the authentic rural beauty of Ireland.
Delving deeper into Connemara, the tour unveils the awe-inspiring Kylemore Abbey and its historic estate, allowing you to step back in time. Dating back to the late 1800s, Kylemore has become one of the most iconic attractions in the region. For the past 100 years, the abbey has acted as the residence of the Benedictine order of nuns, but it’s open to all to visit. The six-acre Victorian walled gardens are particularly breathtaking, with native flowers, vegetables, and herbs all growing in abundance.
Lally Tours’ Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour from Galway offers a profound and unforgettable experience, promising a deeper understanding of Ireland’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As you venture into Irish-speaking rural areas, you’ll gain a genuine sense of the nation’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
(Want to experience even more of Connemara’s culture? Then have a look at our Connemara, Sheepdog Show and Medieval Castle Full Day Tour.)
Lally Tours’ Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour offers a profound and unforgettable experience, promising a deeper understanding of Ireland’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. This tour will leave you with cherished memories of the captivating west coast of the Emerald Isle. Make the most of your visit to Ireland and book your tour today!
Join us on the Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour, where each of these highlights weaves a tapestry of experiences that will linger in your memory for years to come.
This tour departs at 10 am sharp from the centre of Galway City, on Foster Street just outside the Hyde Hotel. We encourage guests to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth start to the day’s exploration. Guests staying in Galway City or suburbs can avail of our pick-up service. See the checkout section for more details.
Gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s cultural heritage, folklore, and history from our expert local guides. The tour presents ample opportunities to experience the ‘Craic’ – the unique spirit of Irish fun and conviviality. As your guide shares stories and traditions passed down through generations, you’ll uncover customs and geographical nuances that define this island nation’s exceptional character.
Throughout the day tour, the bus will stop on numerous occasions for some captivating photo stops, allowing guests to get some shots of the scenic beauty of the Connemara region. From the charming Oughterard to the majestic River Corrib, the awe-inspiring Twelve Bens Mountain Range, and the iconic Maam Cross, your camera will be your trusted companion. Or, keep it old school, and use these stops as an opportunity to really soak in this beautiful part of Ireland, device-free.
The tour heads north-west, leaving the city behind and passing through commuter villages such as Moycullen and Roscahill, reaching Oughterard, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the River Corrib and historic thatched-roof cottages, setting the stage for a day of immersion into the beauty of Connemara.
As you journey through Connemara, you’ll have the privilege of encountering Connemara ponies, a beloved native breed of horse. It’s very likely you’ll come across some wild Connemara mountain sheep during the tour. They freely graze in the region and might even cross your path. There’s no need to be alarmed; these curious creatures are a cherished part of Connemara’s landscape! Keep an eye out for some typical Irish cattle breeds such as Charolais, Angus, Belgian Blue, and Hereford cows. You’ll be utterly amazed by how slow they moooove.
Continuing on this picturesque route, you’ll chance upon stone ruins of homesteads from eras long past, serving as poignant reminders of Ireland’s rich history. These ancient ruins, combined with the scenic beauty, create a profound connection to Ireland’s past, where history and nature entwine.
At Maam Cross, a pivotal crossroads in the heart of Connemara, the tour takes a right turn, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s transportation history. The tour progresses towards Recess, the gateway to the mesmerising landscapes of Joyce Country, where you’re greeted by the serene beauty of Connemara’s shimmering loughs and the majestic Twelve Bens Mountain Range.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to delve deeper into ‘the real Ireland’ as you visit iconic film locations. You’ll see why Hollywood directors chose Connemara as backdrops to movies such as The Field and most recently, Marley & Me. This fascinating glimpse into the film history of the region adds an extra layer of enchantment to the tour.
The tour then leads to Leanne Village, a secluded and scenic haven. Here, our driver will recommend the best places to enjoy a snack and a coffee. A particular favourite among our guests is the Sheep and Wool Centre in Leanne, offering a unique experience and the chance to take home traditional Irish woollen souvenirs.
The tour continues alongside beautiful lakes, leading to the Killary Fjord lookout, where you’ll enjoy one of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to an Irish fairy tree, revealing its significance in Irish folklore.
Dive into the fascinating history of Kylemore Abbey and its immaculate gardens. You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to explore the Neo-Gothic church, Victorian Gardens, restored Gardeners House, and more! Your guide will provide valuable insights on how to make the most of your time.
There is a free shuttle bus to the Victoria Walled Gardens, making this enchanting oasis on the west side of the estate accessible to all. Top off your visit with a delectable lunch in the restaurant and a visit to the gift shop, where you can pick up souvenirs, including exquisite Aran knitwear.
In the afternoon, the journey leads you through the Inagh Valley, where the trees form a picturesque canopy over the road, reminiscent of scenes from a movie! Returning to Maam Cross, you’ll head south into Connemara, an Irish-speaking region that offers a glimpse into life in these remote and traditional Irish communities.
The tour takes you on a picturesque route through Connemara, allowing you to admire the region’s beautiful loughs and islands. These landscapes are an invitation to connect with the unspoiled natural world.
Head towards South Connemara into Gaeltacht areas like Camus and Screeb and admire the breathtaking Screeb Waterfall. As you journey through this region, you’ll have the opportunity to see anglers’ huts on small islands dotting the beautiful lakes.
The landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation in South Connemara, characterised by flat terrain and limestone features that bear an uncanny resemblance to the surface of the moon.
Driving through Costello, Baile na Habhann, and Inverin, all Irish-speaking Gaeltacht areas, you’ll gain a sense of what it would be like to live in these vibrant communities. Along the way, enjoy captivating views of Galway Bay and the mighty Atlantic Ocean, with the tour taking you parallel to the coast and offering stunning views of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Pass through the area of Cois Fharriage, which translates to ‘Beside the Sea,’ allowing you to experience the rugged beauty of the Irish coastline. Visit Spiddal (An Spidéal), a charming coastal town located in a Gaeltacht area. Here, you have the option to visit souvenir shops or enjoy a cup of coffee at our favourite spot, Rúnda coffee shop, owned by a local family.
As the tour draws to a close, you’ll drive through Salthill and Barna, making your way back into Galway City. The tour typically returns to the city between 5:15 and 5:30, contingent on traffic conditions. This provides the ideal opportunity to head into the heart of Galway for a tasty evening meal. Be sure to ask your guide for some recommendations.
We always recommend popping into Taaffes Bar, renowned for its daily sessions of traditional Irish music starting at 5:30 pm. Here, you can savour the best pint of Guinness in Galway and relish the genuine Irish ‘Craic.’ It’s the perfect way to round off the evening after a fabulous day tour with Lally Tours!
Yes, no problem. It’s the same coach and driver all day. This is a great idea if you are coming straight from a connection, if you are checking out of your accommodation, or catching an ongoing connection straight after the tour
The best rates are available by booking direct on LallyTours.com. Also, it’s best to purchase multiple tours at the same time to avail of bundled discounts
Yes we do! Our HQ is the Explore Galway Kiosk in Eyre Square. Please come and say hello ahead of your trip and ask for some local tips for Galway and the West of Ireland.
Yes, we actively encourage a paperless environment as much as possible
A camera – You’ll see many beautiful landscapes and iconic Irish sights, so many guests bring their own camera
Comfortable Shoes – On each of our tours, we make stops that can require lengthy walks. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes so you don’t miss out on Ireland’s hidden gems!
Weatherproof clothing – If the forecast is showing anything other than 100% sunshine, you should probably bring a rain jacket. All of our vehicles have air-conditioning, but in the winter months it is advised to bring a scarf and/or gloves to keep you warm and snug when you’re outside in the elements
Yes, there are plenty of stops for lunch and refreshment options. Lunch is not included in ticket price.
Gratuities are not required. However we think our drivers and guides have a tough job to do, so if you enjoyed your trip, feel free to tip your driver appropriately – it is truly appreciated.
Yes. You will need to verify enrollment in your home university. Please bring your valid Student I.D.
Yes, any remaining tickets will be available to purchase from the driver pre-departure
In peak season, there can be a max of 61 people on this tour.
