Kylemore Abbey Connemara Walking Tour Experience

Clifden , Ireland

Kylemore Abbey Connemara Walking Tour Experience

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About this experience

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Connemara on this expertly guided tour, showcasing the enchanting Kylemore Abbey, its exquisite Victorian walled gardens, and the breathtaking landscapes of one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks. This tour is designed for guests in Ireland on a self-drive tour or travelling in their own car. Set off on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Connemara, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions. Upon arriving Kylemore Abbey you’ll meet your expert local guide and begin an extraordinary exploration of the Kylemore Abbey estate. Surrounded by towering mountains, tranquil lakes, and untouched natural beauty, this experience offers a deep dive into the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes that make Connemara truly unique.

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Kylemore Abbey Connemara Walking Tour Experience

What's included

Take a walk along the Magical Garden Trail and the stunning shores of Lough Pollucapal

Witness the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park

Admission to Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens

Visit the Neo-Gothic 14th century inspired Church

Detailed itinerary

Enter and explore the Abbey, including a selection of its historic rooms including the exquisite Dining Room, and the Main Lounge along with other rooms. Your first stop is Kylemore Abbey itself, a magnificent neo-Gothic castle steeped in history and romance. Stroll through its tranquil grounds, explore its enchanting chapel, and immerse yourself in its fascinating heritage. You will also have the opportunity to enter and explore a selection of the Abbey's beautifully restored rooms, learning about the captivating stories behind its walls.

Stop 2

Walk along the Lake Pollucapal shore and enjoy the magnificent views on your way to visit the Neo Gothic Church located an 8 min walk from the main Abbey Building known at the Kylemore Abbey Castle. Tour guests will also have time to view the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park, a haven of natural splendour while in the Garden area. Along the way, your guide will share captivating stories and historical insights, making this tour an enriching experience you’ll treasure forever.

Continue your journey to visit the 14th century inspired New Gothic Church located a short walk from the shores of the beautiful lake on location. Enter the 14th century inspired Neo Gothic Church with one of the most ornate interiors. The church is described as a Cathedral in Miniature and often called the Tha Mahal of Ireland.

Stop 4

Discover the Victorian Walled Gardens, a meticulously restored horticultural masterpiece where you’ll marvel at the vibrant flora and learn about its innovative design. You will also visit the Glasshouses as well the Head Gardeners House and Formal Flowers Gardens with free time to explore and to walk the Magical Garden Trail inspired by Ireland’s Fairy folklore. Discover the Victorian Walled Gardens, a meticulously restored horticultural masterpiece where you’ll marvel at the vibrant flora and learn about its innovative design. You will also visit the Glasshouses as well the Head Gardeners House and Formal Flowers Gardens with free time to explore.

What's not included

Transportation / Food and Drinks / Gratuities for the guide (optional but appreciated)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking, including over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, inclines, declines and stairs.

Participants should be in good health - consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.

Wheelchairs, motorised scooters or any other device to assist mobility are not recommended, as we cannot guarantee: that all footpaths/sidewalks/curbs will have suitable ramps.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older.

Meeting point

MEETING TIME: 15 minutes before the scheduled start time
MEETING PLACE: Kylemore Abbey, Kylemore. Connemara H91 VR90. Ireland
MEETING POINT: Meet the local guide directly below the Flag Post to the right of the restaurant and Craft Shop area.

Important notes

You cannot enter the venue with this voucher.
- To participate in your tour, you must first check-in with the guide 15 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
- You can only access the venues as part of your organised group tour. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated and missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled.

Health & Safety:
- This tour is not suitable for guests who require any device to assist with mobility.
- Participants should be in good health, consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.
- Wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking.
- Operates in all weather conditions.
- Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older.

About Clifden

Clifden, known as the Capital of Connemara, is a picturesque town in Western Ireland. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and as the gateway to the rugged and breathtaking Connemara National Park. The town offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, traditional Irish music, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Connemara National Park

A stunning national park with rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half to full day Free entry

Sky Road

A breathtaking coastal drive with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Scenic Drive 1-2 hours Free

Clifden Castle

The ruins of a 19th-century castle that offers a glimpse into the area's history and stunning views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked for a rich flavor.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup filled with fresh local seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns.

Dinner Contains dairy and seafood.

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly sour taste.

Snack Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Connemara National Park Horseback riding Beach day at Renvyle Beach Spa day in local hotels Visiting Kylemore Abbey Attending traditional music sessions in pubs Swimming and sunbathing at local beaches Cozy pub visits with live music

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and outdoor activities.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Clifden is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure.
• Be cautious when driving on narrow roads.
• Respect local customs and laws.

Getting there

By air

Galway Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Shannon Airport • 120 km (75 miles)

By bus

Clifden Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect Clifden to nearby towns and villages, with schedules tailored to local needs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services, no major apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Clifden Town Center Sky Road Area

Day trips

Kylemore Abbey

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A beautiful abbey with a rich history, surrounded by stunning gardens and a Victorian walled garden.

Renvyle Beach

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

A beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Festivals

Clifden Arts Week • September Clifden Community Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Connemara National Park early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and fewer crowds.
Try the local seafood, especially oysters and salmon, for an authentic taste of the region.
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Drive the Sky Road for breathtaking views, but be cautious of narrow and winding roads.
Book accommodations and popular tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.