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In Connemara Irish culture does not just linger, but lives. It is one of
Europe's last great natural wildernesses. Vast mountain ranges such as Beanna
Beola (The Twelve Bens) and the Maamturks shimmer in ever-changing light
patterns and the landscape is dotted with lakes and peatlands.
No towns or villages exist in the heart of this rugged land, however, lively
villages such as Cliften, Cleggan, Renvyle and Leenane are scattered along the
coast. Further south the Irish language is spoken and the old traditional songs
and dance remain.
Maam Cross
The crossroads of Connemara and the site of the replica cottage used in the
classic movie "The Quiet Man"
Connemara History & Heritage Centre, Clifden
This award winning centre offers a unique insight into events that have shaped
on of Ireland's most spectacular regions. Exhibits include a ringfort, crannóg,
dolmen, a herd of Connemara Ponies and Dan O'Hara's homestead.
Kylemore Abbey
This neo-Gothic Castle and Church is possibly the most photographed abbey in
Ireland. The grounds include exhibition rooms, lake walk, 6 acre walled garden
and woodland walk.
Glengowla Mines
The mines, abandoned in 1865, are a remarkable example of part of our industrial
heritage. Guide underground tours..
Ashleigh Falls
In the latter part of the summer you can observe Salmon jumping up these falls,
a spectacular sight for those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right
time.
The Famine Village
During that great national disaster it was estimated that 1 million people
perished and another million were forced to emigrate when the potato crops
failed. This abandoned village dates back to this troubled time.
Pearse's Cottage
This cottage was used by Patrick Pearse (1879 - 1916) leader of the 1916 Rising,
as a summer residence. There is an exhibition and a number of mementoes inside.
Roundstone Musical Instruments
The Bodhrán, hand crafted with care in Connemara, is one of Ireland's oldest
products. The goatskin traditional one sided drums can be hand painted in the
design of your choice.
Leenane
This lovely village is on the shores of Killary Harbour, one of the deepest
fjords in Europe. The film "The Field" with Richard Harris and John Hurt was
filmed here. There are some fine eating houses here. The cultural centre is also
worth a visit.
Inishbofin Island
10km off the north Connemara coast, the island boasts magnificent scenery from
cliff top walks, sandy beaches and rare flora and fauna. Ferries take 30 minutes
and leave from Cleggan Village.
Connemara National Park
Situated near Letterfrack, the park covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic
countryside, rich in wildlife. Attractions include exhibitions, nature trails
and a audio-visual show.
Oceans Alive Sealife Centre and 'Queen of Connemara' Luxury Cruiser
The Centre and Seaside Park offer an exhibition of local maritime history,
sealife exhibits, picnic areas, pets corner, childrens play area, cafe, craft
shop.
Special scenic and wildlife cruises abroad the new "The Queen of Connemara" are
available as are sea angling trips.
Aughnanure Castle
Built by the O'Flahertys c.1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque
surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. Standing on what is virtually
a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well preserved example of an Irish
tower house.
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