Private Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway. Guided.

Exploring the captivating landscapes of Connemara on a guided private castles tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Galway. This immersive 9-hour adventure offers a unique opportunity to uncover the rich history and stunning natural beauty that define this region. From visiting the impressive Aughnanure Castle to admiring the breathtaking Kylemore Abbey, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through Connemara’s most enchanting landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can expect an insightful and personalized experience, complete with scenic stops and a chance to discover the true essence of this captivating corner of Ireland. What awaits those who embark on this tour is a true testament to the magic of Connemara.

Key Points

• A 9-hour guided tour from Galway that visits several historic castles in the Connemara region, including Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey, and Ballynahinch Castle.
• The tour is priced starting at €27,084 for up to 3 participants, with a personalized experience and an English-speaking guide.
• Highlights include scenic stops at Quiet Man Bridge, Connemara Giant, and a coffee break in the charming village of Oughterard.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
• Complimentary entrance fees for Aughnanure Castle and Kylemore Abbey are included in the tour package.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The private castles of Connemara tour departs from Galway and lasts 9 hours, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.

Priced from €27,084 for up to 3 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide.

Guests can conveniently cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, and travelers can take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option.

Throughout the journey, visitors will have the opportunity to discover well-preserved Irish tower houses, a Victorian-era monastery, and a castle with historical ties to renowned figures, all while enjoying scenic stops and photo opportunities in the beautiful Connemara landscape.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a captivating blend of historical castles and picturesque scenic stops throughout Connemara.

Visitors will first explore Aughnanure Castle, a well-preserved Irish tower house built by the O’Flahertys in 1500.

Next, they’ll discover Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with stunning Victorian walled gardens.

The tour also includes a visit to Ballynahinch Castle, which has historical connections to the Martin family, known for their contributions to the RSPCA and Abbey Theatre.

Along the way, guests will enjoy a coffee break in the quaint village of Oughterard and have the chance to take photos at the Quiet Man Bridge and the Connemara Giant.

The tour culminates with a stop in the capital of Connemara, Clifden, and a visit to the famous Sky Road along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Castle Visits

Aughnanure Castle, a well-preserved Irish tower house built by the O’Flahertys in 1500, kicks off the castle visits on this private tour of Connemara. Visitors will explore the historic stronghold, learning about its architectural features and the powerful clan that constructed it centuries ago.

The next stop is Kylemore Abbey, founded by Mitchell Henry and now a Benedictine monastery. Guests will wander the impressive Victorian walled gardens and discover the abbey’s storied past. The final castle on the itinerary is Ballynahinch Castle, known for its historical connections to the Martin family and their contributions to the RSPCA and Abbey Theatre.

Castle	Year Built	Architectural Style
Aughnanure Castle	1500	Irish Tower House
Kylemore Abbey	1868	Victorian
Ballynahinch Castle	16th C.	Historic Manor

Scenic Stops

Along the way, travelers will enjoy a coffee break in the quaint village of Oughterard, known for its charming thatched cottage pubs.

Next, the tour will wind through the Inagh Valley, surrounded by the dramatic Maumturk and Twelve Bens mountain ranges. This area provides ample opportunities for photos at scenic spots like the Quiet Man Bridge and the iconic Connemara Giant.

These natural wonders offer a chance to take in the rugged beauty of the region, complementing the impressive castle visits on the itinerary.

With stunning landscapes and historic sites, this Connemara tour promises an unforgettable day exploring the highlights of this picturesque corner of Ireland.

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Additional Locations

Along With the castle visits and scenic stops, the tour also includes a stop in Clifden, the capital of Connemara.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore this vibrant town, with a visit to the famous Sky Road (Wild Atlantic Way – Discovery Point) that offers panoramic ocean views and the picturesque ruins of Clifden Castle.

This charming coastal town is renowned for its lively pubs, local artisan shops, and unique cultural heritage.

The tour ensures guests can fully enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of Connemara, providing a well-rounded experience beyond just the castle tours.

This additional stop in Clifden rounds out the exceptional tour itinerary.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides convenient pick-up and drop-off services from Galway city hotels, ensuring effortless transportation for participants.

Travelers will then journey through Connemara’s scenic landscapes aboard a comfortable mini coach, making stops at the various castles and attractions along the route.

The vehicle is wheelchair accessible, allowing for inclusivity and ease of access.

Throughout the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the historic sites and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Connemara region, all while being guided by a knowledgeable local expert.

The seamless transportation and accessibility features of this tour make for a truly enjoyable and inclusive experience.

Inclusions

What does the private castles of Connemara tour include?

The tour package covers the entrance fees to both Aughnanure Castle and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens, allowing participants to fully explore these historic sites.

Plus, guests will benefit from a guided tour throughout the Connemara region, providing valuable insights and commentary from a knowledgeable local expert.

During the lunch stop at Kylemore Abbey, refreshments are available at the on-site café, ensuring a comfortable mid-tour break.

The tour inclusions are:

1. Entrance fees to Aughnanure Castle and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens.

2. Guided tour throughout Connemara.

3. Refreshments available at Kylemore Abbey café during the lunch stop.

Preparation and Recommendations

Recommended items to bring on the private castles of Connemara tour include sunglasses, camera, drinks, sunscreen, and rain gear, ensuring participants are prepared for the diverse weather and scenery they’ll encounter throughout the day.

The tour covers a range of outdoor settings, from quaint villages to rugged mountain landscapes, so having the proper equipment will enhance the experience.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential for sunny spells, while rain gear is a must-have for the unpredictable Irish weather.

A camera is vital for capturing the stunning vistas and historic castles that dot the Connemara region.

Staying hydrated with drinks is also recommended, as the tour involves extensive time outdoors exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Time for the Tour?

Yes, you can request a specific departure time for the tour. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate your schedule, allowing you to select the start time that best suits your needs.

Do I Need to Arrange My Own Transportation to the Starting Point?

No, transportation to the starting point is provided. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Galway city, so you don’t need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting location. The tour takes care of getting you there.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers have the option to customize the tour length, allowing for more time at the castles and scenic stops along the way. Extended tours are subject to availability and additional fees.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. Customers can request to modify the itinerary and add or swap castle visits or scenic stops based on their interests. The tour provider is flexible in accommodating personalized experiences.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?

The tour offers discounted rates for larger groups. Groups of 4-6 participants can book the tour for €22,570, a 17% reduction from the standard per-group price. This provides a cost-effective option for travelers visiting as part of a small group.

Recap

The Private Castles of Connemara Tour offers an enchanting journey through the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

With visits to iconic sites like Aughnanure Castle and Kylemore Abbey, and scenic stops along the Wild Atlantic Way, this guided tour provides an unforgettable experience.

Wheelchair-accessible and with a full refund policy, it’s an ideal way to explore the captivating castles and natural beauty of Connemara.

You can check if your dates are available here: