Things to Do in Connemara | Cliff of Moher from Galway

National Parks

Discover the Wild West of Ireland

Ireland's National Parks give visitors a real connection to nature. Steeped in wonderment, majesty and splendour, the west of Ireland’s views are something to behold, varied and teeming with flora and fauna.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate is situated in an ideal position for guests to wander the wildlands, and our very knowledgeable team will be more than happy to advise the best routes to view as much scenery as possible during your visit.

Connemara National Park

This park has a large and diverse range of beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy one of the many hiking trials including Diamond Hill. This is a 400 meter high mountain surrounded by some of the best views the west of Ireland has to offer. Just a short drive from the hotel this is a must see for guests that like to hike or take photographs.

Coole Park

Coole Park is situated in a low-lying limestone wetland. It has five underground rivers, numerous springs, swallows and covers an area of approx. 1,000 acres. Once home to Lady Gregory, dramatist and folklorist Coole Park hosted many famous writers such as William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Sean O’Casey and John Millington. This exceptional area was used as inspiration for many poems and novels. A full list of historic visitors can be seen on the Autograph Tree which is the centre piece of the walled garden. The park includes many nature walks, deer park, visitor centre, toilets and restaurant.

Cliffs of Moher

The iconic Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. Stretching for 8km (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast of Clare, the cliffs reach 214m (702 feet) at their highest point at Knockardakin. Midway along the cliffs you’ll find the environmentally friendly visitor centre set into the hillside. Here, you can also discover O’Brien’s Tower, a 19th century viewing tower, and access 800m (2624 feet) of protected cliff side pathways with viewing areas. The visitor centre is open daily 8am – 7pm, with toilet’s, giftshop and restaurant.

The Burren

The Burren or Boíreann, means “place of stone”. This will become apparent to guests that adventure here. Comprised of nearly 4,000 acres of weather beaten land, the Burren provides a living space to a huge variety of plant and wildlife, including an estimated 1,000 feral goats so take care when driving. One of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Island of Ireland this beautiful landscape cannot be missed.