Lough Shindilla: A Tranquil Escape in Connemara
Discover the serene beauty of Lough Shindilla in Connemara, County Galway, a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Lough Shindilla, nestled in County Galway's Connemara region, offers a serene escape with its tranquil waters and lush green surroundings. This freshwater lake, part of the Maumturk Mountains Special Area of Conservation, provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and nature exploration.
A brief summary to Lough Shindilla
- Lough, Co. Galway, IE
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views over the lough.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, as there are many scenic spots perfect for a relaxing meal.
- Don't forget your camera; the area is stunning and offers numerous opportunities for beautiful photography.
Getting There
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Driving
Lough Shindilla is located off the N59 road near Maam Cross. From Galway City, take the N59 northwest towards Clifden. The drive is approximately 40 km and takes about 45 minutes. Look for roadside parking available near the lake. Note that telephone coverage may be limited in the more remote areas. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free along the roadside.
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Public Transport
From Galway City, take a Bus Éireann service towards Clifden and ask the driver to stop you near Maam Cross. From there, it's a short walk to Lough Shindilla. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled, with single fares within the city costing around €1.90. Using a TFI Leap Card can reduce the fare to as little as €1.55. Regional bus fares from Galway to the Maam Cross area typically range from €8 to €12. Check the Bus Éireann website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
Discover more about Lough Shindilla
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Derroura Woods
10.6 km
Escape to the tranquility of Derroura Woods in Galway: scenic trails, breathtaking views, and a haven for nature lovers.
Connemara Giant
11.0 km
Discover the enchanting Connemara Giant, an iconic sculpture nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of County Galway, Ireland's cultural heart.
Curraghduff Farm
11.1 km
Experience the charm of rural Ireland at Curraghduff Farm: walk with alpacas, enjoy stunning views, and create unforgettable memories.
Currarevagh House
14.5 km
Discover the charm of Currarevagh House in Co. Galway, a luxurious hotel with fine dining and breathtaking views, nestled amidst stunning nature.
Pines Island Viewpoint
14.7 km
Capture the iconic beauty of Connemara at Pines Island Viewpoint: Derryclare Lough, the Twelve Bens, and a landscape photographer's dream.
Oughterard Shrubbery
16.3 km
Escape to Oughterard Shrubbery: Galway's serene park with lush greenery, peaceful paths, and a tranquil atmosphere for nature lovers.
Ballynahinch Castle
19.1 km
Experience Irish history and luxury at Ballynahinch Castle, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Connemara's stunning natural landscape.
Ballykine Castle
19.2 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Ballykine Castle, a hidden historical treasure nestled in the serene landscapes of County Mayo, Ireland.
Connemara Adventure Tours
20.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara with exhilarating hikes and scenic cycling at Connemara Adventure Tours.
Pigeon Hole Cave
20.2 km
Discover the enchanting Pigeon Hole Cave in Co. Galway, a stunning natural wonder perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
The Guinness Tower (1864)
20.6 km
Explore the historical marvel of the Guinness Tower in Cong, Co. Mayo, and immerse yourself in Ireland's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Ashford Castle
21.1 km
Discover the luxury of Ashford Castle, a historic five-star resort hotel in the heart of Ireland, blending rich heritage with modern elegance.
Monk’s Fishing House
21.1 km
Explore the historic Monk's Fishing House in Cong, County Mayo: a testament to medieval ingenuity and monastic life on the scenic River Cong.
Cong Abbey
21.2 km
Explore the historic Cong Abbey in County Mayo, a serene monastic site surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara
21.3 km
Explore the iconic Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara in scenic Cong, County Mayo, a must-see for film lovers and tourists alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Connemara Railway Maam Cross Heritage Centre
2.2 km
Explore the rich history of Ireland's railway heritage at Connemara Railway Maam Cross Heritage Centre, set in the stunning landscapes of Co. Galway.
Peacockes Viewing Tower Connemara
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking panoramas of Connemara from the iconic Peacockes Viewing Tower, an essential attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Screebe Waterfall
4.3 km
Screebe Waterfall in County Galway: A captivating natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking tranquility.
Screebe Fishing Hut
7.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Screebe Fishing Hut in Connemara, a breathtaking scenic spot perfect for fishing and relaxation amidst nature.
Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh, Conamara
8.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Ireland at Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh, a historical landmark in the heart of Conamara.
Quiet Man Bridge
10.5 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Quiet Man Bridge, a scenic gem in County Galway, steeped in history and natural charm.
Derryclare Nature Reserve
12.5 km
Discover a serene Connemara escape: ancient oak woodlands, stunning lake views, and native wildlife at Derryclare Nature Reserve.
Fat Bike Galway
13.1 km
Discover Galway's breathtaking landscapes with unforgettable fat biking adventures at Fat Bike Galway. Experience nature like never before.
Derryclare Lough
13.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Derryclare Lough, a stunning lake in County Galway surrounded by majestic mountains and lush landscapes.
Glengowla Mines
13.8 km
Explore the historic Glengowla Mines in Co. Galway, a unique blend of adventure and education amidst stunning Irish landscapes.
Joyce Country Sheepdogs
13.9 km
Experience the heart of rural Ireland at Joyce Country Sheepdogs, where skilled sheepdogs showcase their herding prowess amid stunning Galway landscapes.
Joyce Country Wool
14.2 km
Discover authentic Irish craftsmanship at Joyce Country Wool in Finny, County Galway – a haven for wool enthusiasts and craft lovers alike.
Lough Coolin
14.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Lough Coolin in Co. Galway, a hidden gem perfect for hiking, photography, and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Viewpoint
14.5 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and serene vistas at the Dooletter Viewpoint, a hidden gem in County Mayo, Ireland.
Walk on water
14.7 km
Experience the enchanting sensation of walking on water in Co. Galway, surrounded by stunning landscapes and serene nature.
Essential places to dine
Screebe House
7.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Screebe House in Connemara, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional hospitality.
Connemara Greenway Restaurant
17.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Connemara Greenway Restaurant amidst the stunning landscapes of Oughterard.
John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway
17.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant in Clonbur – where tradition meets great food.
Connemara Lake Hotel
17.1 km
Discover tranquility at Connemara Lake Hotel – your perfect getaway in Co. Galway with stunning views and rich local experiences.
Glynsk House
18.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Glynsk House in beautiful Connemara—where every meal is a journey through local flavors.
Fisherman's Pub
19.1 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and live music at Fisherman's Pub in scenic Connemara – where tradition meets taste!
Owenmore Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience fine dining at Owenmore Restaurant in Ballynahinch Castle, where exquisite Irish cuisine meets breathtaking Connemara landscapes.
Misunderstood Heron
20.2 km
Discover the flavors of Co. Galway at Misunderstood Heron - where local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry in a stunning setting.
Kylemore Pass Hotel Approved
21.1 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and exquisite dining at Kylemore Pass Hotel amidst Connemara's stunning landscapes.
Cullen's at the Cottage
21.3 km
Experience exquisite Irish cuisine at Cullen's at the Cottage in Ashford Castle, where local flavors meet elegant dining amidst stunning surroundings.
Wilde's at the Lodge
21.7 km
Experience fine dining excellence at Wilde's at the Lodge amidst the breathtaking beauty of Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo.
Delphi Resort
22.1 km
Discover adventure and tranquility at Delphi Resort in Co. Galway - your perfect getaway surrounded by nature's beauty.
O'Dowd's Seafood Bar and Restaurant
23.8 km
Experience the best of Irish coastal cuisine at O'Dowd's Seafood Bar and Restaurant in Roundstone – where fresh seafood meets local charm.
The Hungry Hiker Cafe
26.8 km
Experience delightful local cuisine at The Hungry Hiker Cafe in Connemara National Park—where flavor meets nature's beauty.
Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant
27.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant in Letterfrack—where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joyce's Craftshop
11.0 km
Explore Joyce's Craftshop in Co. Galway for unique handmade jewelry and crafts that showcase the essence of local artistry.
John P. Keogh & Sons Irish Gifts and Crafts
17.2 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at John P. Keogh & Sons, where handcrafted gifts and authentic souvenirs await every traveler.
Circle K Express Kylemore
21.2 km
Discover convenience and comfort at Circle K Express Kylemore in scenic Connemara, where your travel needs are met with friendly service.
Lilly's Antiques and Collectables
21.3 km
Explore Lilly's Antiques and Collectables for unique gifts and treasures in Cong, Co. Mayo, where history meets charm.
Letterfrack Country Shop
27.2 km
Explore fresh local produce and unique Irish crafts at Letterfrack Country Shop, your essential stop in County Galway.
Spar
29.4 km
Discover Spar in Clifden for a delightful grocery shopping experience with local products and friendly service, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Ohh! By Gum
29.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish clothing in Clifden's charming boutique, Ohh! By Gum, a true treasure trove for tourists.
The Little Tin House
29.7 km
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Connemara Hamper
29.7 km
Explore the finest organic produce and artisanal delights at Connemara Hamper in Clifden, Co. Galway, your go-to destination for gourmet food.
Stanley & Sons
29.7 km
Discover stylish clothing and shoes at Stanley & Sons, a family-run store in Clifden, Co. Galway, perfect for all lifestyles.
Hehirs Of Clifden
29.8 km
Discover Hehirs Of Clifden, where local fashion meets the heart of Ireland in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Prendergast Antiques
29.8 km
Explore a charming antique store in Clifden, Co. Galway, where history and artistry converge in beautifully curated vintage treasures.
weCRAFT
29.8 km
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The Ivy Market
29.8 km
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Beautiful You Ltd.
29.8 km
Explore Beautiful You Ltd. in Clifden for unique Irish fashion and accessories, offering a delightful boutique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Joyce's Bar
11.0 km
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Johny O Loghlen's bar
15.3 km
Discover the warmth of local hospitality at Johny O Loghlen's Bar in Connemara, where every visit feels like coming home.
Kings Bar
23.8 km
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The Lough Mask Inn
27.1 km
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Molly's Bar
27.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Molly's Bar in Letterfrack, where every visit is a celebration of local culture and community.
Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B
29.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B in Clifden, where delicious food and cozy accommodations await.
MC McGraths
29.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at MC McGraths, a vibrant pub in Clifden known for its hearty dishes, local brews, and live music.
Paddy Coynes Pub
29.8 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at Paddy Coyne's Pub, where traditional dishes and friendly faces await in the scenic County Galway.
Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
29.8 km
Discover the charm of Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant, where local cuisine meets stunning landscapes in Co. Galway.
Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant
29.8 km
Discover the essence of coastal dining at Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets warm Irish hospitality in Clifden.
Griffin's Bar Live Music & Bar Food
29.9 km
Discover Griffin's Bar in Clifden, where lively music meets delicious bar food in a welcoming Irish atmosphere.
Lowry's Bar
29.9 km
Discover the heart of Clifden at Lowry's Bar, an Irish pub blending authentic cuisine, live music, and a warm atmosphere in the stunning Galway region.
Ravi's Bar and Resturant
29.9 km
Experience the best of Irish gastropub culture at Ravi's Bar and Restaurant in scenic Clifden, offering delicious dishes and a warm atmosphere.
Tom King's Bar And Snug
29.9 km
Discover the heart of Clifden at Tom King's Bar And Snug, where local charm meets vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable Irish experience.
E J Kings Bar & Restaurant
29.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at E J Kings Bar & Restaurant in Clifden, Co. Galway.
