Dia duit, a chairde!
Lorna here from Within the Village, I wanted to let you in on some of Connemara’s best-kept secrets.
These hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way are so special and make West Ireland what it is !
Grab a chair, pour yourself a cuppa, and let me virtually walk you along some hidden gems along the Connemara coast.
The Seaweed Baths and Sauna Ervallagh
Seaweed baths and Saunas are a rare find in this area, but the ones in Ervallagh near Gurteen beach are the crème de la crème and perfect after a wild Atlantic dip. Housed overlooking the Atlantic, you can soak in mineral-rich seaweed while watching the waves crash up against the pier. It’s like being in paradise, surrounded by wild, rugged beauty.
The Hidden Sky Road View Point
Sky Road in Clifden is famous , but did you know there’s a secret viewpoint that is extra special and will take your breath away?
About halfway along, there’s an unmarked path leading to a promontory. A short (but admittedly steep) walk rewards you with a 360-degree view that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
We often like to pack a picnic of course with a chilled bottle of champagne for a sunset toast. It’s truly incredible.
The Secret Beach of Omey Island
Ok let’s head to one of my personal favourites a beach so hidden it’s only accessible at low tide.
Omey Island, just off Claddaghduff, is a tidal island with a beach that’ll make you think you’ve stepped into a Caribbean postcard.
It’s one of those fun little adventures where you can drive across the sand to reach it!
Imagine rolling up in your luxury rental, picnic hamper in tow, to a beach that’s all but deserted. Just make sure to watch the tides very closely as you do not want to get stranded.
If you are visiting in August the annual horse racing event takes place on the beach and is a unique experience to be part of.
The Secret Seafood Shack
All this picnic talk has got me hungry, there’s a little seafood shack near Cleggan that we love to visit , it serves the best lobster this side of the Atlantic. It’s no frills, mind you, but the taste? Out of this world.
Pair it with a crisp white wine, and you’ve got yourself a real West Ireland experience
The Secret Garden of Kylemore Abbey
Everyone visits Kylemore Abbey, but few know about its recently discovered walled garden. Hidden behind high walls, this Victorian walled garden is a paradise of rare plants and flowers.
It is very much worth booking a private tour and afternoon tea , you will feel like you are stepping into a Jane Austen novel, but with better scones ( we will let you argue between yourselves what goes first, the cream or the jam)
The Not so Hidden Famous Roundstone Pubs
Allegedly the ‘best pint of Guinness in Ireland’ can be drunk in King’s pub across the road from Within the Village. There’s something magical about sipping a whiskey or a pint of guinness while watching the sun set over the Atlantic if you are lucky to bag one of the two outside tables in the Summer. John and Ellen from the Shamrock bar next door have been known to deliver pints directly into the garden for the Within the Village guests.
One of my favourite experiences is the simple seafood available across the pubs in the village including Vaughans, O’Dowd’s and the Shamrock.
The Secret Sunrise Spot on Diamond Hill
Everyone hikes Diamond Hill, but few know about the secret spot that’s perfect for watching the sunrise.
It’s a bit of a scramble to get there, but those who do always comment how special and incredible the view is! Its lovely to stare out watching the sun peek over the Atlantic, painting the Twelve Bens in shades of gold and pink.
One of our personal favourite things to do is to go with a private guide and have a picnic at the top while soaking in the stunning views.
The Sweater Experience: A Connemara Tradition.
For those in need of a nice warm Irish jumper the Sheep and Wool Centre in Leenane offers not only great jumpers, slippers scarves and even fluffy cards it also offers a wider in-depth experience into our wooly friends.
They have exhibits on the history of sheep farming and wool crafts in Connemara, and sometimes host knitting workshops.
The Secret Cove of Lettergesh Beach
It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but it’s worth every step. Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, rocks ideal for sunbathing, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a seal or two.
Take a luxury picnic, gourmet treats, and a bottle of bubbly from one of the artisan food shops in Clifden along the route. It’s like your own private beach club, courtesy of Mother Nature herself.
The Hidden Megalithic Tomb
Last but not least, before you retire to your luxurious Within The Village luxury cottage, for a touch of ancient mystery, seek out the hidden megalithic tomb near Roundstone.
Wait its not scary…
It’s off the beaten path, but oh, so worth it. Standing there, surrounded by 5000 years of history, with the wild Atlantic as a backdrop? It’s humbling, to say the least. We can suggest a few local guides to really bring the stories to life.
And there we have it !
Ten of Connemara’s best-kept secrets, just for you. From hidden beaches to secret gardens, from luxury seaweed baths to bespoke Irish sweaters, these are the experiences that transform a holiday into a once in a lifetime adventure.
Remember, the real luxury of Connemara isn’t just in high thread counts or gourmet meals (though we’ve got those too!).
It’s in those moments of pure, untouched beauty. It’s in the stories shared over a pint, the laughter carried on the Atlantic wind, and the memories that’ll stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
So come on over to Connemara. Let us show you the hidden corners of our wild, beautiful coast. Because the best luxury is having a place all to yourself, even if just for a little while. Slán go fóill, and may your journeys always lead you to hidden treasures!
P.S. Don’t forget to share your hidden gem discoveries with us! Tag @WithinTheVillage and use #ConnemaraSecrets. The best photo wins a picnic hamper to enjoy at one of our secret spots on your next visit. Happy exploring!
