Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway City. Guided. Full Day

Explore the captivating castles of Connemara on this guided full-day tour from Galway City. Discover the historic gems of the region, from the 16th-century Aughnanure Castle to the enchanting Kylemore Abbey and the majestic Ballynahinch Castle. Enjoy Ireland’s rich heritage, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, as you embark on a small-group adventure led by a knowledgeable guide. With round-trip transportation and personalized attention, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Key Points

• A guided, full-day small-group excursion from Galway City that explores three historic castles in the Connemara region: Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey, and Ballynahinch Castle.
• Includes round-trip minibus transportation and entrance fees, with opportunities to explore the castle grounds at leisure, weather permitting.
• Aughnanure Castle features a 16th-century tower house, sturdy limestone walls, and intricate Gaelic architecture, with guided tours providing immersive historical experiences.
• Kylemore Abbey showcases a Neo-Gothic architectural style and provides access to the Victorian Walled Gardens, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
• Ballynahinch Castle, an 18th-century majestic structure, is set amidst the stunning Connemara landscape, allowing visitors to explore the elegant interiors and ornate furnishings.

Tour Overview

The Castles of Connemara tour is a guided, full-day small-group excursion that departs from Galway City.

This tour explores three historic castles and estates, including Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens, and Ballynahinch Castle.

Travelers can expect round-trip minibus transportation from the starting point, entrance fees to the castles, and the opportunity to explore the grounds at their leisure, weather permitting.

The tour receives excellent reviews, boasting a 4.8 rating based on 21 customer evaluations across Viator and Tripadvisor.

The tour’s price starts at $145.95 per person and is provided by Ireland Wild Escapes.

Aughnanure Castle

Aughnanure Castle, a 16th-century tower house, marks the first stop on the Castles of Connemara tour.

The castle’s sturdy limestone walls and intricate Gaelic architectural features provide insight into Ireland’s rich history. Visitors can explore the tower house, bawn walls, and the remains of a 17th-century banqueting hall.

The castle’s strategically positioned location along the Owenriff River highlights the defensive nature of such fortified structures. Guided tours offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to envision life in this once-thriving stronghold.

Exploring the castle’s grounds and learning about its past captivates visitors as the tour continues through Connemara’s picturesque landscapes.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens

After exploring the medieval grandeur of Aughnanure Castle, the Castles of Connemara tour takes visitors to the enchanting Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian Walled Gardens.

Nestled in the heart of the Connemara mountains, the Neo-Gothic abbey dates back to the late 19th century. Guests can wander the abbey’s halls, learn about its fascinating history, and marvel at the intricate architecture.

The tour also includes access to the estate’s exquisite Victorian Walled Gardens, where visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained pathways and admire the diverse array of flora.

This stop offers a glimpse into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.

Ballynahinch Castle

Following the tour’s exploration of the historic Aughnanure Castle and the picturesque Kylemore Abbey, the Castles of Connemara experience culminates with a visit to the majestic Ballynahinch Castle.

Set amidst the stunning Connemara landscape, this 18th-century castle exudes an aura of grandeur and elegance. Visitors can wander the castle’s elegant interiors, admiring the ornate furnishings and architectural details.

The surrounding 450-acre estate offers opportunities to stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, with views of the Twelve Bens mountain range and the Owenmore River.

It’s a fitting finale to a day immersed in Ireland’s captivating castle heritage.

Sky Road Countryside Views

Weather permitting, the tour then takes guests on a scenic drive along the Sky Road, offering breathtaking views of the rugged Connemara countryside.

The winding coastal route provides sweeping panoramas of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and dramatic cliffs. Travelers can admire the starkly beautiful landscape, dotted with stone walls and grazing sheep.

The driver will make stops along the way, allowing guests to take photos and soak in the serene, unspoiled vistas. This picturesque drive is a highlight for many, complementing the historic castle visits on the itinerary.

Transportation and Meeting Details

The tour commences with pickup from the Galway Cathedral, where travelers are instructed to wait on the steps facing the river.

The driver will greet guests with a sign for the tour. Departure is promptly at 9:30 AM, providing round-trip minibus transportation from Galway.

The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day. The small-group experience has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Accessibility is limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed with infants sitting on laps.

Food allergy information should be provided to the guide before departure.

Group Size and Accessibility

The tour maintains a small-group size, with a maximum of 15 travelers. This intimate setting allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation of the historic sites.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children. Infants must sit on laps during the transportation.

Travelers with food allergies are advised to inform the guide before the tour’s departure, ensuring their needs are accommodated. The tour’s accessibility caters to a range of travelers, providing a comfortable and inclusive experience.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have praised the Castles of Connemara tour for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Colleen and Tony, who bring the history and charm of the sites to life.

Among the positive reviews, guests highlighted the scenic views and charming stops along the way, as well as the small group size that enhances the overall experience.

However, some travelers expressed a desire for more castle visits and noted occasional discomfort with the seating arrangements in the van.

The Castles of Connemara tour offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking to explore the region’s historic landmarks.

• Knowledgeable and friendly guides
• Scenic views and charming stops
• Small group size enhances experience
• Desire for more castle visits
• Occasional discomfort with seating

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Price?

The tour overview does not indicate that lunch is included in the price. Travelers would likely need to purchase their own meals during the tour stops or bring their own packed lunch.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. According to the information provided, the Castles of Connemara tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it does allow infants as long as they sit on laps.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera?

You don’t need to bring your own camera, as the tour allows you to explore the castles and estates at your leisure. However, bringing a camera is recommended to capture the scenic countryside views during the drive along the Sky Road.

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included?

Gratuity for the guide is not included in the tour price. Customers have the option to tip the guide at their discretion based on the quality of service provided during the Castles of Connemara tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students at this time. The standard price of $145.95 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour allows visitors to explore three historic Irish castles, seeing the rich heritage of Connemara. From the 16th-century Aughnanure Castle to the 18th-century Ballynahinch Castle, guests will discover stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes. With round-trip transportation and personalized attention in a small group, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the enchanting castles of Connemara.