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Gurteen Beach: A Connemara Coastal Paradise

Discover Gurteen Beach: a breathtaking Connemara gem with white sands, turquoise waters, and stunning coastal scenery near Roundstone.

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Gurteen Beach, near Roundstone in County Galway, is a stunning white-sand beach renowned for its turquoise waters and scenic beauty. Backed by rare machair grasslands, this idyllic location offers a tranquil escape and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

A brief summary to Gurteen Beach

Local tips

  • Arrive early during the summer months to secure parking, as the beach can get crowded.
  • Bring your own refreshments and beach gear, as local amenities are limited.
  • Respect the dunes and stick to designated pathways to help prevent erosion.
  • Take a walk to nearby Dog's Bay to experience another beautiful beach connected by a tombolo.
  • Check the weather forecast and tide times before visiting to make the most of your trip.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Roundstone village, follow the signs for Gurteen Beach, approximately 2km away. The drive is short and scenic, offering beautiful coastal views. Parking is available along the gravel road directly behind the beachfront. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

  • Walking

    From Roundstone, it's a pleasant 2km walk to Gurteen Beach along the coast. Follow the road towards the beach, enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape. The walk takes around 25-30 minutes. Note that there are no sidewalks for the entire route, so exercise caution.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus 419 to Roundstone. From there, it is a 2km walk or taxi ride to Gurteen Beach. A taxi from Roundstone to the beach will cost approximately €10-€15. Walking is also an option.

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Discover more about Gurteen Beach

Gurteen Beach, located just 2km from the charming village of Roundstone in Connemara, is a jewel on Ireland's west coast. This spectacular beach is famous for its pristine white sand, formed from crushed seashells, and its clear, turquoise waters that rival those of the Caribbean. The beach is sheltered by a headland, making it a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The surrounding landscape is equally captivating. Gurteen Beach is backed by rare machair grasslands, a unique coastal habitat found only in western Ireland and Scotland. These grasslands add to the beach's ecological significance and provide a habitat for diverse plant and animal life. The beach and its surroundings are of international importance due to their ecological, geological, and archaeological features. Gurteen Beach is part of a tombolo, a sand spit that connects it to Dog's Bay, creating a remarkable geological formation. Visitors can easily walk between the two beaches, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and panoramic views of Errisbeg Mountain. The name Gurteen derives from the Irish word 'Goirtín,' meaning 'small plot' or 'small field'. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, take a refreshing swim, explore the coastal trails, or simply soak in the natural beauty, Gurteen Beach offers a memorable experience in one of Ireland's most picturesque settings.

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