Dia duit, a chairde! Lorna here, ready to whisk you away on a virtual journey through one of Connemara’s most breathtaking treasures- the majestic Twelve Bens. Now, whether you’re a seasoned hiker with calves of steel or someone who thinks a ‘trail mix’ is a playlist for your morning commute, I promise you’re in for a treat!
Picture this, it’s a beautiful morning and you’re standing at the foot of Benbaun, the highest of our beloved Bens. The morning mist is just beginning to lift, revealing a landscape that looks like it’s been painted by the Gods themselves. The heather clad slopes stretch out before you, a purple carpet fit for Irish royalty and you of course. The view from up there? It’s honestly breath taking!
I know what some of you might be thinking. “Lorna, I’m more champagne and caviar than boots and backpacks!”. But like you my luxe loving friends, hiking the Twelve Bens isn’t just about breaking a sweat (though you might do that too). It’s about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Connemara, breathing in air so fresh it should be bottled, and creating memories together. For those of you who prefer to ease into your adventures (no judgment here!), you are best starting with a gentle stroll around Diamond Hill. It’s like the amuse-bouche of the Twelve Bens experience. You’ll get those incredible views we all love without having to channel your inner mountain goat.
I often on this hike will take a luxurious picnic to have at the top. We will always pack it with local artisanal cheeses, freshly baked soda bread, and of course a few very welcome glasses of bubbly. If you have a bit more bounce in your step, we often take on the challenge of Benbaun. Not only do you get the incredible Irish views, but you get to meet our local residents- the Connemara ponies. These majestic creatures roam freely, looking like they’ve just stepped out of a fairy tale, and having a better hair day than we would at this point with the infamous Connemara Winds.
One extra tip from us is around the weather here, it can be very changeable. One minute it is glorious sunshine, the next you’re in the middle of a shower that would make Noah nervous. As we say here in Ireland, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”. So we suggest no matter the hike pack those layers, grab a good raincoat, and embrace the elements.
Personally, I find something magical about watching the landscape change as the clouds go from grey to white. So what do we suggest you do after a day of conquering peaks (or gentle hills-we don’t judge), what better way to unwind than with a bit of luxury? At Within The Village, we believe that every adventure should end with a touch of indulgence. It’s a great opportunity to wrap yourself in the softest Irish tweed project blanket and settle by the fire with a glass of fine whiskey. As you watch the sun set over the Bens, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, you’ll understand why we all say that Connemara isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling.
So, whether you’re here to challenge yourself on the rugged trails of the Twelve Bens or simply to soak in the beauty of Connemara at a more leisurely pace, know that you’re in for an experience like no other. The mountains are calling, and trust me, you won’t regret answering. Remember, in Connemara, every hiker is a storyteller, every path holds a secret, and every summit offers a new perspective. So, lace up those boots (designer or otherwise), grab your sense of adventure, and come discover the magic of the Twelve Bens.
We’ll be here waiting, ready to welcome you with open arms and, of course, a perfectly poured pint of the black stuff. Slán go fóill, and may the trail rise to meet you! P.S. Don’t forget to share your Twelve Bens adventures with us! Tag @WithinTheVillage and use #TwelveBensMagic. Who knows? You might just win yourself a luxury treat. Because let’s face it, the only thing better than hiking the Bens once is coming back to do it all over again!
