Nestled in the rugged beauty of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara is renowned for its wild landscapes and coastlines. While more popular landmarks attract many visitors and can become busy during peak summer season, there are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Beyond the more popular paths lie quiet trails offering unique experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten track. Here, we let you in on five of Connemara's best-kept secrets. So set off and discover these hidden treasures but make sure to respect the environment, follow local guidelines, take nothing but memories and leave nothing but footprints.

 

1. Derrigimlagh Bog Trail

Tucked away in the heart of Connemara near Clifden, lies Derrigimlagh Bog.This unique trail through a beautiful area of blanket peat bog and lakes is important not only for its rich and diverse ecology, but also as the scene of two important events in international travel and communications history. Italian inventor Marconi established the world’s first permanent transatlantic radio station and transmitted the first commercial transatlantic message to Newfoundland in Canada from here in 1907. Derrigimlagh Bog was also the site where Alcock and Brown crash landed in 1919 on the first non-stop flight across the Atlantic. The spot is marked by a white memorial shaped like an aeroplane wing.

2. Omey Island

Accessible only on foot during low tide, Omey Island is a mix of stunning scenery and ancient history. This tiny tidal island of sandy beaches is designated as a Special Area of Conservation because of its abundance of rare plants and insect life. During the summer months the island is covered in wildflowers and the ruins of early seventh century St Feichin’s Church can be seen not far from the shore. It is a very special and peaceful place.

3. Diamond Hill

While Croagh Patrick might draw more attention, the lesser known Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park certainly holds its own in terms of its remarkable views. It's an easier hike with a choice of shorter or longer trails through differing landscapes from lush woodlands to open moorland. But it’s the spectacular views from the top, with stunningly beautiful views over Kylemore Abbey and lake to the Renvyle Peninsula and out to the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk to the west and northwest, and the Maamturk mountains and Ben Choona mountain range to the south, that make the hike worth the effort.

4. The Inagh Valley

The lesser-travelled Inagh Valley is a true hidden gem. A journey through this quiet valley is one of the most scenic drives in Ireland. The valley winds its way through the majestic Twelve Bens and Maamturk mountains, with picturesque Lough Inagh reflecting every change in the weather. There are various hiking trails including the Western Way, the Inagh Valley loop and the Mam Eán Geotrail where you can follow the footsteps of St Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint and enjoy the peaceful and captivating views of this unspoiled terrain.

5. Killary Famine Trail

The Killary Famine Trail follows the contours of Killary Fjord, an area rich in history, nature and remarkable scenery. The trail is a moving reminder of the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s as the path was actually built by local people in return for food during some of the worst years of the famine. The stunning yet sombre beauty of the area coupled with the historical significance creates a truly memorable experience.

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