With the weather being as fantastic as it was this past spring and summer, I thought it important to explore more of Connemara. I’ve been through there on several occasions in varying weather conditions. But there’s something special about Connemara in the sunshine. Of course, Connemara is home to endless untouched coastline and some truly spectacular beaches. Here are a couple Connemara beaches off the beaten track that I had the pleasure of visiting this summer!
Glassilaun
Glassilaun isn’t too far from Leenane Co. Galway, so if you have some nice weather and a little extra time while driving around the area, give Glassilaun a go! I won’t say exactly where it is, but if you want to know you can find its location from other sources. I only heard about it by word of mouth and don’t want to spoil it!
This spot had nothing to do with the actual beach, but it was on the way, just a few minutes before arriving there. It’s a gorgeous drive! You’ll start driving down some very country roads and start wondering if you’ve taken a wrong turn… until you go around the last bend…
And boom! We were gobsmacked when we were greeted with this view. I had to pinch myself.
We tried to sit and have a picnic with cheese, crackers, and some charcuterie meats. Turns out it was a very windy day and we got sand in our eyes, clothes, and food. Not as classy as we’d hoped to be.
The views were spectacular from every angle!
We were only two of a handful of people on the beach, maybe 5 or 6 in total. I was really hoping to go for a swim but it was just a touch too chilly and windy that day.
Happiest when exploring new places 🙂
Dog’s Bay, Roundstone
I’d read about some gorgeous beaches out by Roundstone Co. Galway, and since we’d never been out that way before we decided to give Dog’s Bay a go. And I’m SO glad we did!
Unreal views on the walk from the car park down to the beach.
Donal only dipped his feet in but I went for one of the nicest and most peaceful swims of my life. I was the only one swimming in my general vicinity so it was very calm and quiet. Don’t get me wrong, the water was cold, but tolerable and invigorating after a few minutes. It was lovely just floating on the surface of the clear turquoise water and feeling the warm sun on my skin. No matter which way I was facing , the scenery was jaw-droppingly beautiful. It nearly felt like I had the whole place to myself. Not to sound too cliche, but it was magical.
In the end I feel like I may have preferred Dog’s Bay. It was a bit more crowded on the beach than Glassilaun but my swimming experience in Dog’s Bay was something I won’t soon forget. Both Connemara beaches are worth a visit at some stage! This all makes me want to get out and start exploring more hidden gem spots around Ireland.