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How to Plan the Connemara Loop Drive

Posted by on

We will be staying a few nights in Galway and to explore at least part of the Connemara area. Because of our schedule, we have to do it in one day. The only thing that we actually booked is the "Hawk Walk" at the School of Falconry at 10:30 am. I'm assuming we will be ready to get back on the road around 12:00. Can anyone suggest an interesting route that would get us back to Galway at least by 5 or 6pm? We want to allow enough time to get out and explore a little and not just rush through everything. I'd rather leave out part of the loop than try to see everything just driving by.
Speaking of driving: I'm a bit concerned about driving on the left side of the road on country lanes ( I know backroads can be beautifull) that are only wide enough for 1 1/2 cars and have hedgerows and blind corners. Is that going to be a problem in this area?
Thanks for any advice you might have!

Bob

Posted by
2292 posts

From Ashford Castle, take the R345 to Leenaun. Then pick up the N59 (left turn) which takes you along part of Killarey Harbour and past Kylemore Abbey to Clifden. Now do the short Sky Road drive clockwise round the peninsula to the west of Clifden. On a sunny day this must rank as one of the best short drives in the wiorld.

It takes you back into Clifden. Don't take the N59 out of Clifden, instead take the R341 which takes you round the coast to the delightful small town of Roundstone with its harbour and views across the the Twelve Bens. Continue on the R341 to rejoin the N59 near Recess and take this back to Galway.

Map of the route

This is about 110 mile drive and without stops will take 3.5 hours plus. It will show you the best bits of Connemara. This should allow plenty of time to take it slowly and stop and enjoy.

The N59 is a good road so no problems driving that. The R roads are slower but are all main routes so there shouldn't be too many problems with narrow roads with hedges and blind corners. It is only when you get onto the unclassified roads that you will encounter the really narrow road.

Adjust your speed and take it slowly.

Posted by
1194 posts

Hello from Wisconsin,

The previous poster suggested the R341. It might be good. I have no comment on that other than do not take the R336 out of Maam Cross. A big nothing of a drive. Besides you will have already run out of time.

Westport is as far north as you should go. Stay on the west side of the big lakes. Ashford and Cong are as far east as you should go. Some how, the pretty Connemara landscapes are on the ocean side.

Driving. Be smart as you drive. At a blind corner always expect a cyclist, pedestrian, a flock of sheep, a pig sleep on the tarmac, or a small lorry headed at you. All the Irish drivers understand that the roads are narrow. But they do seem to play a game of chicken. First person to move over has to give the most. I usually look for a wide spot and pull over. They do too. Field entrances are a convenient place to pull aside. And when approaching a car each driver should be looking for a place to give way. Unlike the US where it is every driver for themselves, the Irish drive as though it is a team project.

wayne iNWI

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