The coastal town of Clifden is a large town, found in
County Galway on the western side of the Republic of Ireland. Located near to a coastal inlet, this town is known for its brightly coloured buildings and offers plenty of facilities. It is a great place to enjoy a walk by the water or a stroll around town, past the quaint shops and pretty rows of coloured houses. With a scenic location by the coast and Connemara National Park only a few miles away, Clifden has lots to recommend it for cottage holidays, offering you some of the best of Ireland’s coastal and country scenery in and near the town.
About Clifden for Cottage Holidays
The name Clifden is known as An Clochán in the Irish language and means ‘stepping stones’ and is the largest town in the district of Connemara, often being spoken of as the ‘Capital of Connemara. A self-catering break in Clifden may appeal to those who wish to stay somewhere with plenty pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops yet with the beauty of Connemara’s coast and countryside easily accessible nearby.
With vistas of, and of course, with the ocean close at hand, there are plenty of opportunities for seaside strolls or to just relax and take in the fresh sea air. If you adore sandy beaches, Mannin Bay comes highly recommended for its golden sandy beach and azure waters. Dog’s Bay near to Roundstone is similarly dazzling with golden sands and cobalt waters, perfect for romantic strolls or walks with the dog.
There is a great sense of community in Clifden, and because of this, there are several events which take place throughout the year in the town. You may be just lucky enough to catch one of these when you are on a cottage holiday in this part of Ireland. One of these is the Clifden Community Arts Week which takes places annually in late September, and is brilliant for those who love music, art and culture. With traditional music, recitals and poetry readings, the festival began in 1979 and remains popular today.
Another event which takes place annually is the Connemara Pony Show which began in 1924 and has been held in Clifden ever since 1947. Held in late August, the pony show is wonderful for those who love this beautiful creature and want to see this wonderful breed of Connemara pony. Clifden also has a regatta held by the bay and harbour.
There is so much to do in Clifden and the surrounding areas of Connemara on a cottage break that you will be spoilt for choice. Those who are looking for more of an active break in western Ireland may want to do activities such as scuba diving, mountain climbing, sailing and rock climbing, all of which can be easily done in Galway.
There are also lots of walking and hiking trails amongst the incredible and unspoilt rural backdrops. One of the top attractions of this corner of Ireland, particularly for keen walkers and wildlife walkers has to be Connemara National Park. Entrance to this special park is free and the park comes highly recommended for the quality of the scenery on offer which includes mountains, woodlands and grasslands. Special events are held throughout the year and there is a visitor centre where you can grab a cup of tea and a nice slice of cake.
Clifden has a friendly atmosphere with lots of charming cafes, restaurants and pubs to settle into. With its gorgeous coastal location, it makes for a great holiday destination for the whole family, and visiting this part of western Ireland and Galway will be a decision you will not regret. Whether you are interested in
cottage holidays by the coast or
Irish country cottages inland, we trust that you’ll be amazed by the fabulous coastline and countryside. You may even find yourself returning year after year!
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Clifden, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Galway.
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