Connemara Day Trip with Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Gardens from Galway
Travel by coach to see Ireland's only fjord, charming villages, and a walled garden
The wild beauty of western Ireland comes alive on this day trip through Connemara Region. Board a comfortable coach in Galway and travel past striking glacial landscapes, quiet farmlands, and dramatic mountain peaks. The route features stops at Ireland's only fjord and the village of Leenane before arriving at a spectacular 19th-century estate, Kylemore Abbey. With included entry, wander through its magnificent lakeside rooms and Victorian Walled Gardens, before a return trip to Galway.
What You Get With This Tour
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Chase Connemara’s biggest views
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Expert English-speaking local guide
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Round-trip coach transport from/to Galway
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Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens entry
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2 hours of free time at Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens
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Twelve Bens, Leenane Village, and Killary Fjord, and more!
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Guide tips
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Food and drink
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at Foster Street, outside the Hyde Hotel
Arrive early in Galway City Centre and meet your driver-guide on Foster Street outside the Hyde Hotel. Get settled on the coach as you head west toward the wild and rugged landscape of Connemara Region. -
2
Follow the road into Connemara’s lake country
Leave the city behind and pass commuter villages and quiet farmland as the landscape turns wilder. Along the way, your guide shares history about Connemara, as well as local folklore, and Irish-language insights tied to the region. -
3
Pause for photos in villages and mountain scenery
Stop at scenic pull-offs to capture classic Connemara views, from rivers and thatched cottages to the Twelve Bens, a mountain range of mostly sharp-peaked quartzite summits and ridges. Use these breaks to stretch your legs, breathe in the Atlantic air, and reset for the next drive. -
4
Stop for a break in Leenane village
Pull into Leenane, a small village set between mountains and water. Browse local shops if time allows, then rejoin the coach for the short drive to one of the area’s biggest viewpoints. -
5
Take in the Killary Fjord viewpoint
Step off the coach at a fjord overlook for big, wind-swept views across Killary, Ireland’s only fjord. Your guide explains how glaciers shaped this landscape. Then take time for photos before moving on to your next destination. -
6
Explore Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Gardens
Arrive at Kylemore Abbey, a stunning Benedictine monastery and 1,000-acre estate, originally built in 1868 as a private romantic castle. With included entry and spend about 2 hours exploring. Walk the lakeside setting, visit the abbey spaces open to visitors, and make time for the Victorian Walled Gardens. -
7
Your tour ends at Foster Street, outside the Hyde Hotel
After your time at Kylemore Abbey, ride back toward Galway via Connemara’s changing landscapes. Pass beautiful coastal views, when weather conditions allow. You’ll be dropped off at the original meeting point on Foster Street, outside the Hyde Hotel, in late afternoon.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what’s included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Strollers are allowed, though some stops involve uneven ground and short walks from the coach. If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
Weather advisory: This tour runs rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress in layers with a waterproof jacket if needed. In the event of severe weather conditions, this tour may be cancelled. If this happens, you will be offered an alternative tour or a full refund.
Lunch: Lunch is not included in the price of the tour. There will be opportunities to grab a bite during your time at Kylemore village.
Luggage: You can bring your luggage on board. It's the same coach and driver all day, which works well if you're connecting onward after the tour.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your tour includes:
Expert English-speaking local guide
Round-trip coach transport from Galway
Entry to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens
2 hours of free time at Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens
Connemara, Leenane Village and Killary Fjord stops
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottle
Weather-appropriate jacket
Camera
Valid ID
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes. This day trip works well for families, with regular stops along the route and time to explore Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Gardens at your own pace.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Strollers are allowed, though some stops involve uneven ground and short walks from the coach. If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
Does this tour run if it rains?
Yes, this tour runs rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress in layers with a waterproof jacket if needed; in severe weather, the tour may be cancelled and you’ll be offered an alternative tour or a full refund.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but there will be time to purchase food in Leenane village, where you can find cozy cafés and traditional Irish restaurants.
