The From Galway: Connemara and Cong Full-Day Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western regions. Departing from the vibrant city of Galway, this comprehensive tour guides participants through a series of breathtaking natural wonders and historic sites, showcasing the very best that this enchanting corner of the Emerald Isle has to offer. With a knowledgeable live guide, convenient transportation, and select entrance fees included, the tour promises a seamless and enriching experience. But what truly sets this journey apart is the chance to uncover the stories that lie hidden within these magnificent settings, beckoning travelers to…

Key Points

  • This 8-hour tour departs from Galway, offering a comprehensive exploration of Connemara and Cong for a starting price of €40 per person.
  • Highlights include stops at Inagh Valley, Kylemore Abbey, Killary Fjord, and Cong village, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
  • The tour includes live tour guide commentary, round-trip transportation, and discounted entrance fees to select attractions, providing a seamless and enriching experience.
  • Customers have highly rated the tour’s knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and overall service, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 1,400 reviews.
  • Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility in their travel plans.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Connemara and Cong Full-Day Tour offers visitors an in-depth exploration of the stunning landscapes of the Galway region, with a duration of 8 hours and a starting price of €40.00 per person.

This popular tour is likely to sell out, but travellers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from the Kinlay Hostel Galway, and the itinerary highlights include photo stops at the Inagh Valley and Killary Fjord, as well as a 2-hour visit to the iconic Kylemore Abbey.

Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the charming village of Cong and its historic Augustinian abbey.

With a live tour guide, round-trip transportation, and select entrance fees included, this tour provides an immersive and well-organized experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour itinerary features several notable highlights, beginning with a photo stop at the picturesque Inagh Valley, allowing visitors to capture the stunning natural scenery.

Next, the group will spend two hours exploring the iconic Kylemore Abbey, with entrance fees collected by the driver at a discounted price.

The tour then continues to Killary Fjord, where a 10-minute photo stop offers breathtaking views of this stunning glacial fjord.

The final destination is the charming village of Cong, where guests can discover the 12th-century Augustinian Cong Abbey and wander through the serene Cong Woods before returning to Galway.

Inagh Valley

From Galway: Connemara and Cong Full-Day Tour - Inagh Valley

In the Inagh Valley, visitors are treated to a 10-minute photo stop, allowing them to capture the stunning natural scenery that defines this picturesque region.

Nestled amidst rugged mountains and rolling hills, the Inagh Valley is a photographer’s dream, with its sweeping vistas and dramatic landscapes.

Visitors can marvel at the rugged beauty of the area, taking in the majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and winding streams that characterize this iconic part of Connemara.

Whether it’s a panoramic shot of the entire valley or a close-up of a delicate wildflower, the Inagh Valley offers ample opportunities for visitors to immortalize the natural splendor of this breathtaking destination.

Kylemore Abbey

After the photo stop at the Inagh Valley, visitors spend approximately 2 hours exploring the grounds and architecture of Kylemore Abbey, a stunning 19th-century castle and monastery nestled amidst the rugged Connemara landscape.

This neo-Gothic masterpiece features intricate stone carvings, ornate interiors, and manicured gardens that showcase the abbey’s grand Victorian design.

Visitors can wander through the historic rooms, observe the working Benedictine community, and admire the lakeside setting that inspired the abbey’s construction.

The on-site craft shop and cafe provide opportunities to take in the abbey’s legacy and the local culture.

Kylemore Abbey stands as a captivating blend of natural splendor and architectural grandeur, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Killary Fjord

From the Inagh Valley, the tour makes a brief 10-minute photo stop at the stunning Killary Fjord, a glacial fjord that marks the border between counties Galway and Mayo. This dramatic natural wonder is Ireland’s only true fjord, carved out by glaciers during the last ice age. The sheer cliffs and deep, narrow waterway offer breathtaking views, making it a popular spot for sightseers.

Feature Description
Location Borders counties Galway and Mayo
Type Glacial fjord
Length Approximately 16 km (10 miles)
Depth Up to 45 meters (148 feet)

The photo stop provides an opportunity to capture the scenic beauty of this remarkable geological formation before continuing the journey to the picturesque village of Cong.

Cong Village

The tour’s final stop takes visitors to the picturesque village of Cong, where they’ll spend around 45 minutes exploring its historic sites and natural beauty.

Visitors can wander through the charming Cong Woods, a tranquil forest home to the ruins of the 12th-century Cong Abbey, an Augustinian monastery.

The village itself is steeped in history, having served as the setting for the classic film ‘The Quiet Man’ starring John Wayne.

Cong’s scenic landscapes and quaint streets make it a delightful end to the day’s adventures.

Highlights include:

  • Exploring the ruins of Cong Abbey

  • Strolling through the picturesque Cong Woods

  • Discovering the village’s connections to ‘The Quiet Man’

  • Admiring the area’s natural beauty

  • Soaking in the peaceful, historic atmosphere

Tour Experience

Travelers on this tour will marvel at the stunning natural landscapes of Connemara and Cong, guided by a knowledgeable local who provides insights throughout the day. The tour experience includes:

Experience Details
Inagh Valley Enjoy a 10-minute photo stop to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Kylemore Abbey Spend 2 hours exploring this impressive 19th-century neo-Gothic castle and its beautiful gardens.
Killary Fjord Take a 10-minute photo stop to admire the dramatic glacial fjord.
Cong Village Discover the charming 12th-century Augustinian Abbey and the scenic Cong Woods.
Haunted Lake Learn about the eerie tales surrounding Lough Nafooey, known as the most haunted lake in Ireland.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of Connemara and Cong.

Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly, customers rave about the exceptional tour experience, with a remarkable 4.7/5 overall rating based on over 1,400 reviews. Highlights include:

  • Tour guides consistently earn a stellar 4.8/5 rating for their insightful commentary and expertise.

  • The air-conditioned coach transportation is praised for its comfort and reliability, also rated 4.8/5.

  • Customers are highly satisfied with the overall service and organization, scoring 4.6/5 in both categories.

  • While some wish for more outdoor exploration, the breathtaking scenery of Connemara and Cong is widely celebrated.

  • Minor critiques include a desire for the inclusion of lunch in the tour price, though the complimentary meals are generally well-received.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

There is no information provided about group discounts for this tour. The pricing details indicate a per-person rate, but do not mention any group-based pricing options or discounts. The tour operator may offer discounts for group bookings, but this is not specified in the details given.

Can We Stop for Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes regular restroom breaks throughout the day. The driver will make planned stops at suitable locations, ensuring participants have the opportunity to use facilities as needed during the tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, tours are conducted on air-conditioned coaches, so the group size is likely limited by the capacity of the vehicle used. Guests should check with the operator for the typical group size.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Snacks and Water?

No, snacks and water are typically not required as the tour includes a lunch stop. However, guests may wish to bring any personal snacks or water if desired to supplement the provided meal.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can speak with the tour operator to inquire about extending the tour and the associated costs. The standard tour duration is 8 hours.

Recap

The From Galway: Connemara and Cong Full-Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ireland’s scenic wonders.

Travellers can enjoy the captivating landscapes of the Inagh Valley, marvel at the grandeur of Kylemore Abbey, experience the tranquility of Killary Fjord, and discover the historic charm of Cong Village.

With a knowledgeable guide, round-trip transport, and select entrance fees, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the cultural heritage of Connemara and Cong.

You can check if your dates are available here: