Derryclare Nature Reserve: A Connemara Sanctuary
Discover a serene Connemara escape: ancient oak woodlands, stunning lake views, and native wildlife at Derryclare Nature Reserve.
Derryclare Nature Reserve, nestled in the Inagh Valley of Connemara, is a 19-hectare haven of old oak woodland and serene beauty. Established in 1980, it protects a rare example of native Irish woodland and offers tranquil trails along Derryclare Lough, with stunning views of the Twelve Bens mountains. It's a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking peace amidst breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Derryclare Nature Reserve
- Derryclare, Co. Galway, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the trails, as some areas may be uneven.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, as there are scenic spots perfect for relaxing.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.
Getting There
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Driving
From Galway, take the N59 towards Clifden. At Recess, turn onto the R344 towards Letterfrack. Continue for approximately 5km; the entrance to Derryclare Nature Reserve will be signposted on your right. Limited parking is available near the entrance. Alternatively, from Clifden, take the N59 towards Galway. Turn onto the R344 towards Recess. The reserve will be signposted on your left. Expect a drive of approximately 55 minutes from Galway or 15 minutes from Clifden. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free but limited, so arrive early, especially during peak season.
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Public Transport
From Galway, take a Bus Éireann or Citylink bus to Sraith Salach. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk (2.5 km) to Derryclare Nature Reserve. Alternatively, take the bus to Clifden and then a local taxi to the reserve, which is about 10 km away; a taxi from Clifden will cost approximately €15-€20. A single bus fare from Galway to Sraith Salach ranges from €7-€15. Check Bus Éireann and Citylink websites for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
Discover more about Derryclare Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Connemara Giant
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Ballynahinch Castle
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Kylemore’s Neo-Gothic Church
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Connemara Adventure Tours
12.0 km
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Roundstone Bog
13.3 km
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Connemara National Park Viewpoint
13.6 km
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Connemara National Park lodge
15.0 km
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Walk Connemara
15.7 km
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Connemara Real Adventures
17.5 km
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Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Derrigimlagh
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Gurteen Beach
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Moyrus Beach
18.1 km
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Alcock and Brown landing site
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Marconi Radio Station
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Abbeyglen Castle Hotel
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bencorr
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Walk on water
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Pine Island Viewpoint
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Connemara Region, County Galway
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Twelve Bens
3.9 km
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Ruaidhrí'Chastro
8.2 km
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Lettershanbally Nature Walk
9.0 km
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Connemara Heritage & History Centre
10.4 km
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Connemara National Park
10.4 km
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DK Connemara Oyster Farm · Letterfrack
10.5 km
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Killary Adventure Company Activity Site
12.1 km
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Bogville Panoramic Views
12.2 km
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Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
12.2 km
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Killary Fjord Viewpoint
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Killary Sheep Farm
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Essential places to dine
Fisherman's Pub
7.6 km
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Owenmore Restaurant
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Kylemore Pass Hotel Approved
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Misunderstood Heron
12.1 km
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Glynsk House
13.5 km
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The Hungry Hiker Cafe
14.5 km
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O'Dowd's Seafood Bar and Restaurant
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Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant
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Connemara Woodfire
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Delphi Resort
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Screebe House
17.4 km
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Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant
17.4 km
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The Lamplight
17.6 km
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Jasmine Garden
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Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joyce's Craftshop
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Circle K Express Kylemore
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Letterfrack Country Shop
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Spar
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Ohh! By Gum
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The Little Tin House
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Connemara Hamper
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Stanley & Sons
17.5 km
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The Ivy Market
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Hehirs Of Clifden
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Prendergast Antiques
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Beautiful You Ltd.
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Aran Woollen Store
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Love Vintage
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Joyce's Bar
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Johny O Loghlen's bar
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Kings Bar
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Molly's Bar
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Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B
17.4 km
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MC McGraths
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Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant
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Griffin's Bar Live Music & Bar Food
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Tom King's Bar And Snug
17.7 km
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Ravi's Bar and Resturant
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E J Kings Bar & Restaurant
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Mullarkeys Bar
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Paddy Coynes Pub
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Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
17.9 km
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The Lough Mask Inn
32.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Tigh Josie
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Henehans Late Bar
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Castle Late Night Venue
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Ecstatic Ireland
50.1 km
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Club Mantra
51.4 km
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O'Reillys Bar and Kitchen
51.6 km
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The Oslo Bar
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O'Connor's Famous Pub
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The Crane Bar
52.0 km
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Massimo Bar Galway
52.0 km
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Mickey's Bar
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Róisín Dubh
52.1 km
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Club Arus na nGael
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