Things to See & Do
BEACHES
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This area is renowned for its untouched beaches and rugged coastlines: white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Mannin will always be our favourite, but here are a few of the many other lovely local beaches we recommend visiting during your stay:
Mannin Bay Beach
Just meters from Sweet Garden, Mannin Bay beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its pristine sandy shores stretch for several kilometres offering a secluded and intimate coastal experience. Mannin Bay beach is known for its tranquil beauty and its clear waters, making it idea for swimming, water sports such as surfing and kayaking.
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Ballyconneely Beach
Situated near the small village of Ballyconneely, which is 1.5 miles from Sweet Garden, Ballyconneely Beach is perfect for relaxing picnics or family outings. Visitors can enjoy activities like horseback riding along the beach or exploring the nearby sand dunes and coastal trails.
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The Coral Strand Beach
You will pass this beach on your way to Sweet Garden. It is situated on the main Ballyconneely Road. With easy access from the road. This beach's name aptly describes its most striking feature - a shore adorned with countless tiny coral fragments, giving the sand a distinctive pinkish hue. This is a very popular spot for snorkelling.
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Gurteen Beach & Dog's Bay Beach
These two beaches (beside each other) are quite simply 'magical'. Renowned for its unique shell-sand beach, formed from countless fragments of seashells, this crescent shaped bay offers breath-taking views of the rugged Connemara Coastline and the Twelve Bens mountain range. A 'must' visit during your stay.
Keeraunmore Beach
A short 5-10 minute drive from Sweet Garden, Keeraunmore Beach is a popular spot for surfing, thanks to its consistent waves and uncrowded breaks. You can also pop into the nearby Connemara Golf Club House for lunch and refreshments.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
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The natural surroundings of Mannin and Ballyconneely provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, golfing, fishing and water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.​
The Connemara Championship Golf Club
Just a short drive away from Mannin, you'll find the Connemara Links Golf Course, which is famous for its stunning location and challenging links-style golf. Golfers can enjoy breath-taking views of the Atlantic while playing a round. The Club House offers a warm Irish Welcome serving food and drinks.
The Connemara Smokehouse
A 5-10 minute drive from Sweet Garden, the Connemara Smokehouse is a culinary gem that has been delighting seafood enthusiasts for generations. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, this family-run smokehouse specialises in traditional smoking techniques that infuse locally sourced fish with rich, smoky flavours. Visitors to the smokehouse can explore its charming surroundings, learn about the smoking process first-hand, and sample an array of delectable offerings.
Connemara Equestrian Escapes
Offers horse riding experiences along the beaches and trails of Ballyconneely, suitable for riders of all levels.​
Coral Strand Beach
While not a traditional activity provider, Coral Strand Beach in Ballyconneely is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and beachcombing.​
Ballyconneely Surf School
Provides surf lessons and equipment rental for those looking to catch waves along the Connemara coastline.​
Sky Road E-Bike Hire
Offers electric bike rentals for exploring the scenic Sky Road and surrounding areas of Clifden.
Connemara Wild Escapes
Provides guided walking tours and hiking experiences in the Connemara National Park and surrounding countryside.
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
While not strictly an outdoor activity provider, Kylemore Abbey offers scenic walks through its expansive estate and gardens, as well as boat tours on Lough Pollacapull.​
Cleggan Riding Centre
Located near Clifden, this riding centre offers horse riding adventures along the Connemara coastline and countryside.​Clifden Boat Club
Offers sailing lessons, boat rentals, and guided sailing excursions on the waters of Clifden Bay and beyond.​​
LOCAL CULTURE
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Ballyconneely and its neighbouring areas also have a rich cultural heritage. You will find traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs, and the community often celebrates local festivals and events. There are so many to chose from but here are a few of our favourites:
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Keoghs Pub
Keoghs, in Ballyconneely, is a 20 minute walk from Sweet Garden, where the warmth of Irish hospitality meets the charm of a traditional Irish pub. Keoghs is our ‘local’ and welcomes visitors to experience the joys of a genuine Irish pub atmosphere. Keoghs also does decent pub food and occasional music nights.
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Mc McGraths, Clifden
Mc McGraths in Clifden Town is an Irish pub that embodies the warmth, charm, and hospitality of the Connemara region. It’s not just a place to enjoy a drink; it's also a hub of entertainment and culture. Throughout the week, you can catch live music sessions featuring talented local musicians playing traditional Irish tunes, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and authentic. For the Irish-pub and music experience, this is well worth a visit.
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O'Dowds, Roundstone
O'Dowd's holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a beloved institution where the spirit of Connemara comes alive. Situated in the heart of this quaint fishing village, O'Dowd's invites visitors to savour the flavours of the sea and the warmth of Irish hospitality.
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Ballynahinch Castle
Ballynahinch is truly wonderful. "Experience the timeless elegance and natural beauty of Ballynahinch Castle, nestled amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Connemara. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush woodlands and the sparkling waters of the Ballynahinch River, this majestic castle invites visitors to immerse themselves in luxury and tranquillity."
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The Ardagh Hotel Restaurant, Clifden & Foyles Hotel, Clifden
Both of these restaurants are really good, really really good. It is a 'white tablecloth' experience, where you will be very well looked after with good food, good wine and great hospitality. Highly recommend.