A weekend road trip around Connemara

Hit the road and make your way to Letterfrack, where you’ll take some time to check into your hotel. Once you’ve settled in a little, head to the hotel restaurant to grab an early dinner. After all, you’ll probably be hungry after driving so much.

After your meal, we recommend heading out to see the sunset at Diamond Hill. Only a six minute drive from the Rosleague Manor Hotel, it would be a shame to miss this perfect spot. The views of Connemara are incomparable and the egg-yolk like sunset adds something special to the experience. You don’t need to climb all the way up to get a good experience, but if you are in the mood for a post-dinner challenge, you can take on the three hour climb to the top. Find out more about hiking Diamond Hill here.  

Where should you sleep?

For this weekend getaway, we thought it would be perfect to base yourself in Letterfrack and then drive from there to your next locations. That means you’ll be staying 2 or 3 nights, depending on what sort of schedule works best for you, at the same hotel. 

We really love the Rosleague Manor Hotel for that cosy, rustic and atmospheric feel. This charming 19th century manor turned hotel provides every comfort visitors will be looking for on top of incredible sea views, free private parking and a warm welcome.

After a hearty breakfast, head to Clifden, which is only 16 minutes away from the hotel, and prepare to embark on the Sky Road Drive. There’s nothing more magical than driving through some of Connemara’s most majestic sights. The route starts in Clifden and loops for about 16km all the way back to Connemara’s largest town. 

The slow drive is one of the best ways to see the full beauty of the area and to appreciate the epic coastal landscape, from the stunning flora and fauna to the incredible local wildlife. So get your road trip playlist ready and prepare to enjoy the slow scenic drive through one of Mother Nature’s greatest gifts. Make sure to stop every now and then, have a little wander around and appreciate all this incredible scenery. 

Make sure you remember to drive safely and check the weather conditions ahead of your trip. 

In the afternoon, make the most of the route by exploring Clifden town. For lunch, we highly recommend heading to Mitchell’s Seafood Restaurant for some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the area. In town, walk around and get a sense of the local shops and quaint pubs that populate the place with cheer. Head towards Clifden Castle and visit the beautiful 19th century Gothic revival style former home of John D’Arcy. Located 2.5km from Clifden town, it’s an easy drive to see the ruined castle and take in the stunning nature that surrounds it. 

Make your way back to Letterfrack later in the afternoon and head to The Lodge for a simple yet delightful dining experience. The food is fresh, simple and absolutely delicious and makes for a fantastic authentic Irish dinner.