Inisbofin: A Hidden Gem in Co. Galway
Discover the untouched beauty of Inisbofin, a serene island retreat in Co. Galway, where history and nature come together in stunning harmony.
Inisbofin, a breathtaking island off the coast of Co. Galway, offers tourists a serene escape into nature. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife, this idyllic destination is perfect for those looking to unwind and explore the rugged beauty of Ireland's west coast.
A brief summary to Inisbofin
- Co. Galway, IE
Local tips
- Visit during the warmer months for the best weather and longer days to explore.
- Bring sturdy walking shoes to fully enjoy the island's hiking trails.
- Don't miss the local seafood; dining in the village is a must for fresh fish.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip to and from the island.
- Engage with locals to learn about the island's history and hidden gems.
Getting There
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Car
From Galway City, take the N59 road heading towards Clifden. Continue on this road for approximately 70 km (about 1 hour and 15 minutes). Look for the sign for Cleggan, which is a small village along the coast. Once you reach Cleggan, follow the signs for the ferry terminal. The ferry to Inisbofin departs regularly from Cleggan and the cost is approximately €20 return for adults. Make sure to check the ferry timetable ahead of your visit, as it can vary based on the season and weather conditions.
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Public Transportation
To reach Inisbofin by public transport, start from the Galway Coach Station. Take a bus to Clifden, which usually takes about 2 hours. Once in Clifden, you can either take a taxi (which may cost around €20-€30) or walk (about 1.5 km) to Cleggan. From Cleggan, you can catch the ferry to Inisbofin. The ferry fare is approximately €20 return for adults. Be sure to check the bus and ferry schedules in advance to ensure smooth connections.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Galway City to Cleggan. The journey will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the cost will be roughly €100-€120. Once at Cleggan, you can board the ferry to Inisbofin, which costs about €20 return for adults. Ensure you confirm the ferry times when you arrive at Cleggan to avoid any delays.
Discover more about Inisbofin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cleggan-Head
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cleggan Head, a premier hiking destination on the Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Connemara National Park lodge
19.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Connemara National Park Lodge, your gateway to Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.
Connemara Real Adventures
19.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara with thrilling outdoor adventures tailored for every adventurer.
Connemara National Park Viewpoint
20.4 km
Explore the stunning Connemara National Park Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of Ireland’s lush landscapes and rugged mountains in County Galway.
Walk Connemara
20.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara with Walk Connemara, where guided tours bring nature and history to life in Ireland's wild heart.
Marconi Radio Station
23.3 km
Discover the historical significance of the Marconi Radio Station, a landmark of communication innovation nestled in the picturesque County Galway.
Connemara Smokehouse, Factory Shop & Cafe
24.9 km
Experience the flavors of Connemara at the Smokehouse, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking coastal views in a charming café setting.
Doolough Valley Famine Memorial
29.1 km
Explore the Doolough Valley Famine Memorial, a poignant tribute to resilience and a stunning site for reflection amidst breathtaking Irish landscapes.
The Glen Keen Estate & Glen Keen Farm
29.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Glen Keen Estate & Farm in Co. Mayo, a must-visit destination for travelers in Ireland.
Ballynahinch Castle
29.4 km
Discover the enchanting Ballynahinch Castle, where history meets luxury in the heart of Connemara, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Connemara Adventure Tours
29.7 km
Embark on thrilling adventures and explore the stunning landscapes of Connemara with Connemara Adventure Tours, your gateway to outdoor exploration in Ireland.
Dog's Bay
31.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dog's Bay, a serene public beach in Co. Galway, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Gurteen Beach
32.0 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Gurteen Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Connemara, Ireland, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Achillbeg
32.2 km
Experience the enchanting landscapes and wildlife of Achillbeg Island, a hidden Irish gem in Co. Mayo's breathtaking coastline.
Pines Island Viewpoint
32.9 km
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Pines Island Viewpoint in Co. Galway, a must-see scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Inishbofin Island
0.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Inishbofin Island, a hidden gem off the Galway coast.
East End Beach
1.7 km
Experience the captivating beauty and tranquility of East End Beach, a nature preserve and tourist attraction on Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway.
Islands Viewing Point
8.5 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Islands Viewing Point in Co. Galway, a serene escape showcasing Ireland's natural beauty and rich heritage.
Cleggan Bay
9.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquil charm of Cleggan Bay on Ireland's scenic west coast, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and explorers.
Cleggan Cliffs
10.0 km
Explore the stunning Cleggan Cliffs, where breathtaking views and rugged beauty meet the wild Atlantic Ocean in County Galway.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Omey Strand
10.3 km
Explore the stunning Omey Strand, a serene beach on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and endless adventures.
Omey Island
10.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and tranquility of Omey Island, a hidden gem on the west coast of Ireland, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Omey Beach
10.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Omey Beach, a hidden gem along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Fountain Hill Beach Road
11.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Fountain Hill Beach Road in County Galway, a perfect destination for relaxation, scenic walks, and stunning coastal views.
Coolachloy Island Views
12.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and breathtaking vistas of Coolachloy Island, a hidden gem in Co. Galway, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Eyrephort Beach
13.1 km
Discover Eyrephort Beach: A stunning coastal paradise in Co. Galway, perfect for relaxation, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking landscapes.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Islands View
15.0 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and tranquility at the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point in Renvyle, Co. Galway, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Renvyle Beach
15.1 km
Discover Renvyle Beach in County Galway—where golden sands meet the wild Atlantic, offering adventure, relaxation, and stunning coastal views.
Wild Atlantic Way South
15.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way South in Co. Galway, where stunning landscapes meet rich Irish culture.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Sky Road
15.5 km
Experience stunning views and the breathtaking beauty of Ireland's coastline at the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point at Sky Road.
Essential places to dine
The Pier Bar Cleggan Connemara
9.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Pier Bar in Cleggan – where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.
Olivers Seafood Bar
9.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Olivers Seafood Bar in Cleggan, where fresh catches meet stunning coastal views.
Renvyle House Hotel & Resort
14.2 km
Experience luxury and nature at Renvyle House Hotel & Resort - your perfect getaway in Connemara's stunning landscapes.
Connemara Woodfire
19.0 km
Discover Connemara Woodfire: A Culinary Haven Offering Exquisite Wood-Fired Dishes Surrounded by Breathtaking Irish Scenery.
Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant
19.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant in Letterfrack—where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.
Marconi Restaurant Clifden
19.5 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Ireland at Marconi Restaurant in Clifden - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
The Hungry Hiker Cafe
19.5 km
Experience delightful local cuisine at The Hungry Hiker Cafe in Connemara National Park—where flavor meets nature's beauty.
Guys Bar Clifden
19.5 km
Discover Guys Bar Clifden: A premier gastropub serving exquisite local cuisine and drinks in the heart of picturesque Clifden.
Mitchell's Restaurant
19.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Mitchell's Restaurant in Clifden, where every dish tells a story of Galway's rich maritime heritage.
Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar
19.6 km
Discover authentic Irish culture at Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar in Clifden - enjoy live music and exceptional whiskey in a warm atmosphere.
The Lamplight
19.6 km
Experience the essence of Irish hospitality at The Lamplight in Clifden—where exceptional food meets exquisite wines.
Jasmine Garden
19.6 km
Savor authentic Asian dishes in Clifden's hidden gem - Jasmine Garden offers a delightful dining experience for every taste.
Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant
21.4 km
Discover luxury and breathtaking views at Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant - where exquisite Irish cuisine meets stunning Connemara landscapes.
The Pink Wagon
21.9 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at The Pink Wagon in Ballyconneely - where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
Kylemore Pass Hotel Approved
26.0 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and exquisite dining at Kylemore Pass Hotel amidst Connemara's stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cottage Handcrafts
15.4 km
Explore Cottage Handcrafts in County Galway for unique, handcrafted Irish gifts and textiles that capture the essence of Irish culture.
Letterfrack Country Shop
19.1 km
Explore fresh local produce and unique Irish crafts at Letterfrack Country Shop, your essential stop in County Galway.
Viviana
19.5 km
Explore Viviana in Clifden: Your destination for unique fashion, local crafts, and an authentic Irish boutique experience.
King's Paper & Gift Shop
19.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at King's Paper & Gift Shop in Clifden, the perfect stop for families and gift-seekers alike.
Millars Connemara
19.5 km
Discover unique Irish craftsmanship at Millars Connemara, a boutique showcasing exquisite locally-made products in the heart of Clifden, Co. Galway.
Connemara Blue
19.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of artistic handicrafts at Connemara Blue, an art studio and gift shop in Clifden, Co. Galway, where creativity meets Irish charm.
Modern Madam
19.5 km
Discover fashion and beauty at Modern Madam, Clifden's premier boutique for clothing, cosmetics, and eco-friendly products.
Whistlestop Gifts & Interiors
19.6 km
Explore Whistlestop Gifts & Interiors in Clifden, where unique gifts and Irish craftsmanship await to enhance your home.
Conn O'Mara
19.6 km
Explore Conn O'Mara, a charming craft store in Clifden offering exquisite handmade goods and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Irish artistry.
Lowry's Sweater and Gift Shop - Irish Gift Shop Of The Year
19.6 km
Explore Lowry's Sweater and Gift Shop in Clifden for authentic Irish gifts, clothing, and souvenirs that embody Ireland's rich cultural heritage.
The Ivy Market
19.6 km
Uncover hidden gems and unique treasures at The Ivy Market, a charming thrift store in the heart of Clifden, Co. Galway.
The Soap & Bubbles Shop
19.6 km
Explore The Soap & Bubbles Shop in Clifden for exquisite health and beauty products crafted with local ingredients, perfect for any traveler.
Derval Joyce Gift Shop
19.6 km
Explore the charm of Clifden at Derval Joyce Gift Shop, where local crafts and unique gifts bring the spirit of Ireland to life.
Seafarer
19.6 km
Explore Clifden's Seafarer Gift Shop for unique gifts, vintage treasures, and a taste of Irish culture in every item.
Love Vintage
19.6 km
Explore unique vintage finds at Love Vintage, a charming clothing store in the heart of Clifden, Co. Galway, where timeless fashion meets sustainability.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
17.0 km
Discover the charm of Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant, where local cuisine meets stunning landscapes in Co. Galway.
Paddy Coynes Pub
17.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at Paddy Coyne's Pub, where traditional dishes and friendly faces await in the scenic County Galway.
Molly's Bar
19.2 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Molly's Bar in Letterfrack, where every visit is a celebration of local culture and community.
Mullarkeys Bar
19.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Mullarkeys Bar in Clifden, where local beers and live music create unforgettable nights.
E J Kings Bar & Restaurant
19.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at E J Kings Bar & Restaurant in Clifden, Co. Galway.
Tom King's Bar And Snug
19.5 km
Discover the heart of Clifden at Tom King's Bar And Snug, where local charm meets vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable Irish experience.
Griffin's Bar Live Music & Bar Food
19.5 km
Discover Griffin's Bar in Clifden, where lively music meets delicious bar food in a welcoming Irish atmosphere.
Ravi's Bar and Resturant
19.5 km
Experience the best of Irish gastropub culture at Ravi's Bar and Restaurant in scenic Clifden, offering delicious dishes and a warm atmosphere.
Lowry's Bar
19.6 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.
MC McGraths
19.6 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.
Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant
19.6 km
Discover the essence of coastal dining at Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets warm Irish hospitality in Clifden.
Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B
19.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B in Clifden, where delicious food and cozy accommodations await.
Kings Bar
31.8 km
Experience the charm of Kings Bar in Roundstone, Co. Galway, where local brews and traditional music create an unforgettable Irish experience.
The Compass Bar
34.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Compass Bar, a charming pub on Achill Island, perfect for unwinding with local drinks and music.
Joyce's Bar
35.9 km
Discover the heart of Irish hospitality at Joyce's Bar in Recess, Co. Galway, where every visit feels like coming home.