Family Adventure in Connemara: A Week in Ireland's Natural Beauty

A Day of Delights in Visit Clifden

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the charm of Clifden. From exploring local art to savoring fresh seafood and enjoying the lively atmosphere of an Irish pub, it was a day filled with delightful experiences and unforgettable moments. It's amazing how a single day can encapsulate so much of what makes this region so special.

The day began with the family stirring in our tents, the air crisp and carrying the scent of the Irish countryside. I prepared a simple breakfast, eager to get going and explore Visit Clifden. Jan, as always, was keen to stretch his legs, while Aoife was excited to see what the town had to offer. After a quick clean-up of our campsite, we packed the car and set off towards Clifden, a drive that was as scenic as ever.

Our first stop was breakfast at The Pink Wagon, a charming little spot that promised a delightful start to the day. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were immediately inviting. I ordered a traditional Irish breakfast, complete with black and white pudding, while Jan opted for a lighter pastry and Aoife chose a hearty bowl of porridge. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


Experience delightful breakfasts at The Pink Wagon in Ballyconneely - where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured into the heart of Clifden. The town itself is a vibrant hub, full of colorful buildings and bustling streets, a perfect reflection of the lively spirit of Connemara. Our main goal for the morning was to explore the local art scene, and Clifden certainly didn't disappoint. We headed first to The Whitethorn Gallery, a place I had heard so much about. The gallery was a treasure trove of Irish art, featuring works from both established and emerging artists. The pieces reflected the rugged beauty of the Connemara landscape, from dramatic seascapes to serene pastoral scenes. Aoife, with her keen eye for art, was particularly captivated by a series of paintings depicting the local flora and fauna.


Explore the vibrant contemporary Irish art scene at The Whitethorn Gallery in Clifden, a must-see cultural gem in County Galway.
I found myself drawn to a landscape that reminded me of my childhood home in Westport. The colors, the light, the very essence of the painting evoked such strong memories. It's funny how art can transport you back in time, bridging the gap between the present and the past. I almost felt like I was walking through the fields of my youth again.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After The Whitethorn Gallery, we decided to explore some of the other art spaces in town. We wandered into The Lavelle Art Gallery, a place that has been representing artists in Connemara since 1988. The gallery is housed in a beautiful two-story yellow townhouse that has been in the Lavelle family for six generations. Inside, we found an eclectic collection of Irish and international artists, all drawn to the region by its natural beauty. I was particularly impressed by the works of Eileen Meagher, whose panoramic landscapes captured the expansive beauty of Connemara. Jan, with his interest in history, was fascinated by the stories behind some of the older pieces, while Aoife was busy taking photos of her favorite artworks.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We decided to try Olivers Seafood Bar, drawn in by the promise of fresh, locally sourced seafood. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the delights of the sea. We ordered a variety of dishes, from creamy seafood chowder to succulent oysters and perfectly grilled fish. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs.


Experience exquisite seafood dining at Olivers Seafood Bar in Cleggan, where fresh catches meet stunning coastal views.
As we savored our meal, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I appreciate the simple pleasures of life – good food, good company, and beautiful surroundings. Sharing these moments with my family made it all the more special. It reminded me of the importance of taking the time to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, whether it's in a work of art or a plate of fresh seafood.

In the late afternoon, we decided to embrace the Irish pub culture and stopped by Joyce's Bar. The pub was warm and inviting, with a lively atmosphere and the sound of traditional music filling the air. Jan and I ordered a pint of Guinness, while Aoife opted for a local craft beer. We settled into a cozy corner and listened to the music, soaking in the ambiance of the place. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover the heart of Irish hospitality at Joyce's Bar in Recess, Co. Galway, where every visit feels like coming home.
As the evening approached, we made our way to the Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant was elegant and refined, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We were seated at a table by the window, and as we looked out at the rolling hills and the shimmering sea, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. The meal was exquisite, a culinary journey that showcased the best of Irish cuisine. From the perfectly cooked lamb to the delicate desserts, each dish was a work of art.


Discover luxury and breathtaking views at Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant - where exquisite Irish cuisine meets stunning Connemara landscapes.
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights. Clifden at night is a magical place, with a sense of tranquility that is hard to describe. We stopped by a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat before heading back to our campsite, our hearts full of wonderful memories.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our tent, I can't help but smile. Today was a perfect day, a reminder of why I love this part of the world so much. From the art galleries to the seafood restaurants and the lively pubs, Clifden has something to offer everyone. And as we prepare for our final day in Connemara tomorrow, with plans to visit Achill Island and Dog's Bay, I know that the adventures are far from over. I am particularly looking forward to our breakfast at Connemara Woodfire tomorrow, before we head out for the day. I am sure that tomorrow will bring even more unforgettable experiences.

I am so glad that I was able to share this experience with Jan and Aoife. They have truly come to appreciate the beauty and charm of Connemara, just as I always have. It's a special thing to be able to share your heritage with your loved ones, to pass on the stories and traditions that have shaped you into the person you are today.

As the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my roots and to create new memories with my family. And as we drift off to sleep tonight, I know that the magic of Connemara will stay with us long after we have left its shores.

Tomorrow, we're off to Achill Island and Dog's Bay. I've heard so much about the stunning scenery and pristine beaches. I can’t wait to share that experience with you all as well!