FREE VISITOR INFORMATION CONNEMARA

FREE CONNEMARA IPAD APP AVAILABLE ON THE APP STORE

PUBLISHED BY DESTINATION CONNEMARA

MAY 16-29 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 9

whatson®

THINGS TO DOPLACES TO STAYRESTAURANTSSHOPPINGEVENTS AND MUSICMAPS

Page 3 Music SchedulePage 4-5 Activities and AttractionsPage 6 Shopping - Special Offers

Page 8 Clifden Map / Maps ref. numbersPage 9 Connemara Map / Cycle Routes

Page 10 Drives and Day ToursPage 11 Walk - Beach Road / Sky RoadPage 12 Roundstone / Inishbofin Island

Page 13 Tide Timetable / Aqua InfoPage 14 Connemara Events

Page 15 What's On the Menu?Page 16 Useful Information

contents

For further information about Connemara, visit connemara.net

Ask questions and stay tuned atfacebook.com/connemara.whatson

Download the Connemara iPad appSearch 'connemara' on the app store

Please email us with your comments and feedback info@whatson.ie

What's On is published by Destination ConnemaraVisit destinationconnemara.ie

Next issue May 30 Print deadline May 27Contact 091 442479 or email info@whatson.ie

Cover image Lough Inagh © robertriddell.comWhat's On is a registered trademark in Ireland.

Welcome to Connemara and thank you for picking up a copy of What's On.

What's On is published by Destination Connemara, a local business dedicated to

providing you with top quality visitor information to help you discover the very best of Connemara. Established in 2005,

What’s On is published fortnightly from May to October and is distributed to over 100 locations around Connemara and Galway,

with over 12,000 copies circulating monthly throughout the season.

Destination Connemara also offers online and mobile visitor information through

connemara.net, the Connemara iPad app and soon, the Connemara smartphone apps.

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what about it?

Irish Music 7 Nights a Week!Mon-Sat 10-till late / Sun 6-8:30pm

Wholesome Pub Food Served DailyConnemara Smoked Salmon a Speciality

One of Ireland's Premier Irish Whiskey Bars

"A Place of Traditional Pleasures, Famous for its Céilí Music Sessions"

Recommended by Lonely Planet

Market St, Clifden T: 095-21347

www

www

Connemara Pony Sales 18th - 19th MayClifden Mart, Galway RoadVisit connemaraponysales.com

Tour de Conamara 25th - 26th MayVisit tourdeconamara.com Read more on page 14

Inishbofin Walking Festival 25th - 27th MayVisit inishbofin.com Read more on page 14

connemara chamber of commerce warmly welcomes all visitors to the west www.visitconnemara.com

Conamara Bog Week 24th May - 3rd JuneRead more on page 14Further information at ceecc.org

Inishbofin Half Marathon 18th MayRead more on page 14Further information at croi.ie

Roundstone Bay 8K 18th May, 1pmVisit roundstonebay8k.com Read more on page 14

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musicscheduleLocate venues on the maps. See number corresponding to each venue under map, page 8.'Trad' means traditional Irish music.

E.J.KINg's BAR

Daily 6:30-8:30PMEarly acoustic traditional Irish music and ballads with Mike and Peter Carey

MoNDay 10:00PMTrad Irish music with Sean Halpenny and Padraic

Tues and THurs 10:00pm Trad, ballads and folk music with Slyne Heads

Wednesday 10:00pmTraditional Irish music with Michael Carey and Tom Mullen

FRiDay 10:00PM Trad with Michael Carey and Co.

SaTuRDay 10:30PM Classic Rock with the Michael Carey Band

SuNDay 10:00PMTraditional Music with Tom Mullen and Brian Homes

guY's BAR & sNug

Wed To saT 7:30-9:30pmTraditional fireside music session with John Durning and friends

SaTuRDay 10PM Disco with DJ Mike O'Malley

gRIffIN's BAR

Daily 8:00PM-laTeLively traditional Irish music, song and dance every evening - not to be missed!

J.CONNEElY's BAR

daIly from 17TH May 6:30PMEarly traditional music session

daIly from 17TH May 9PMLively traditional Irish music

lOWRY's BAR

MoNDay 10PM-laTe Traditional Irish music with Feichin Mitchell and Eugene Barry

TueSDay 10PM-laTe The famous Lowry's traditional Irish music session group;visiting musicians welcome

Wednesday 10pm-laTe Traditional Irish music with Peter Carey and Liam Aspell

THurs and saT 10pm-laTeTraditional Irish music with John Gerard Walsh and Mairtin Conroy

FRiDay 10PM-laTe Traditional Irish music with Richie Newman and Liam Aspell

SuNDay 6-8:30PM Lively early evening traditional music session with The 2 Peters

MANNION's BAR

SaTuRDay 6:30-8:30PMTraditional Irish Music Session

MullARKEY's BAR

every THursday 10pm Baskethouse open-mic

frI 17TH aND 24TH 10PM Blues, Funk, Folk and Reggae with Nick Timothy

SaT 18TH 10PM American Folk and Bluegrass with Tumbling Bones from Portland, USA

SaT 25TH 10PMContemporary covers from local group 3.5

O'MAllEY's BAR

Tues and THurs 9pm Popular ballads with Lanseol

SaT 18TH 10:30PM Come dancing with award-winning singer Colin Fahy

SaT 25TH 10:30PM Blues Grunge with Noah Kitterick and The Sons of Paupers

thE BEACh DAY's BAR

FRi aND SaT 9:30PM Live traditional music sessionLocation: Inishbofin Island

thE stAtION BAR

FRiDay 9:30PM Irish folk music with Platform 3

SaTuRDay 9:30PM Traditional Irish music with Féile

For updates and further information please check connemara.net/events

Organising a gig or an event taking place in Connemara? Use the new 'Post Your Event' service on connemara.net to add it yourself to the calendar.

Message to What's On advertisers: please email info@whatson.ie with any changes to your music schedule.

Irish Fare & Delicious Seafood Restaurant Quality at Pub Prices6:30-9pm: Trad Irish Music with Meals

9pm: Lively Irish Trad Session

Lunch 12-5pm Evening Meals 5-9pm

Jconneely’s bar and restaurant

Market St, Clifden T: 095 22733

Irish Music Every Night!

The Courtyard, Station House, Clifden

Open 7 days Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sunday 12-5 facebook.com/ohhbygum ohhbygum.ie

New collection from Gabrielle Parker just inCheckout our special offer on page 7

“The Best Boutique in Ireland” Voted by the Irish Times and their readership.

“One of the Best 30 Shops in Ireland” HOT PRESS’s Best of Ireland,30 Best Shops

Ohh! By GumEco-Chic Boutique

CONNEMARACHAMPIONSHIP GOLF LINKS

Ballyconneely, Clifden T: 095 23502 / 23602

www.connemaragolflinks.com

Play 9 Holes with Club Hire for €39

Panoramic Restaurant OpenVisitors Welcome

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Jewellery Making Discover the secrets of a craft that is thousands of years old. Wander in and watch Jonathan, one of the skilled members of the O'Dalaigh family, crafting unique jewellery on the premises of the family shop, which is located in the heart of Clifden. Influenced by the Golden Age of Celtic jewellery and artefacts

throughout Ireland and Europe, they also produce a contemporary organic-like designer range. See advert right.

Walking The Connemara horizon is dominated by more than fifty magnificent mountains in four tightly packed ranges; the Twelve Bens, Maum Turks, Partry and Sheffrey. The most accessible way to discover hillwalking in Connemara is to climb Diamond Hill in the Connemara National Park, which features an excellent wood and cut

stone path. Beautiful islands also make Connemara a walkers paradise. Why not take a day trip to Inishbofin, a truly magical island where you can choose from 3 looped walks? Read more on page 12.

Connemara National Park When you first see the park, watched over by its cone-shaped mountain, Diamond Hill, you will be impressed by its stunning beauty. Enjoy the picnic area, children's playground and tea room, visit the exhibition on Connemara’s landscape, audiovisual

show and Connemara ponies. Admission is free and the grounds are open all day, all year. Self-

guided tours include a choice of nature trails and hill walks of various lengths and levels. July and August activities: Guided Walks on Wed and Fri 11am (bring appropriate footwear and rainwear), Fun with Nature for Kids (strictly 5-10 years old, adults must stay with children) on Tues and Thurs 11am, History and Management of Connemara Ponies on Mon, Wed and Fri 2-4pm. Visit connemaranationalpark.ie.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled garden Originally built as a Castle in 1867 as a romantic gift, Kylemore Abbey and the surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history. Learn of tales of tragedy, romance, engineering initiatives and royal visits. It became

home to a community of Benedictine Nuns in 1920 and has been renowned as a place of spirituality and

education. Much of the estate has been restored to its former glory. Experience the Victorian atmosphere of the restored rooms of the abbey and miniature Gothic church. Explore the magic of the 6 acre Victorian Walled Garden. With nature trails, woodland walks, children's play trail, café, tea house and an excellent craft shop, Kylemore is the ideal destination for a family day out. See advert page 9.

glass-Bottomed Boat tours Begin Friday 24th May. Tours every fine and fair day on Ireland's only glass-bottomed boat (booking essential). Weather permitting, tours depart at 11am, 12:30, 2:30pm, 4pm and 5pm from Letterfrack pier on route N59 right beside the

shop Avoca (#34 on map page 9) and the National Park. Tour duration: 1 hour. See advert page 13.

Connemara Championship golf linksNestled between the scenic splendour of the Twelve Bens and the rugged Atlantic ocean lies Connemara Golf Links. From the testing dog leg opening hole to the breathtaking back 9, it has been acknowledged as the "equal to any in the

world". The course has been described by US Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson as spectacular and

is a wonderful example of links golf in Ireland. See advert page 3.

Deep-sea Angling If you're a fan of deep-sea angling or if it's your first time, you can look forward to an adventure on the open sea with a promise of catching pollock, ray, mackerel, wrasse, turbot, conger, flounder, plaice, dogfish and even shark! Simply book a trip on the Celtic Queen on a daily or hourly rate with John Ryan,

a skipper who has over 30 years experience. The Celtic Queen is Ireland's largest and best equipped sea angling boat, fitted with all the most modern safety, navigational and fish handling equipment. You can even cook your catch on-board, or get the Connemara Smokehouse to smoke it for you! Fishing gear available for hire on-board. Departs from Clifden harbour daily. See advert page 13.

Connemara smokehouse Ireland's first Food Économusée, this family-run business offers regular tastings of the best quality traditional smoked salmon. Visitors are welcome at anytime. Visites en français à 2 h le mercredi en juin, juillet et août (réservation suggérée,

enfants moitié prix). Tours every Wednesday at 3pm during June, July and August (booking

advisable, children half price). Private tours available all year (booking essential). Tours include filleting and slicing demonstrations along with explanation of salting and smoking techniques, followed by a tasting of smoked salmon. Open Mon-Fri 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm (closed weekends). Products available in some local shops. See advert page 11.

Cleggan Beach Riding Centre is Connemara's premier beach riding centre, offering a wide variety of treks to suit all tastes and standards. You can choose a three-day package of up to 6 hours riding per day (including lunch break), a day-long ride, the 3 hour trek to

Omey Island across beautiful Omey beach - an experience not to be missed - or the 90-minute trek

on moorland or to Sellerna beach. They also offer shorter treks for children and lessons by appointment, with qualified instructors, up to competition standard. Hats and boots are available. Dressage and show jumping leagues are also a regular feature at the centre, which is open every day. The times of the treks are governed by the tide, so it is wise to book in advance. See advert page 11.

the Connemara giant sits in the gaze of the Twelve Bens mountain range and is Ireland's only late 20th century antiquity. A local tale has it that if you touch its hand, you will be blessed with the knowledge of his ancient tribe. The Giant is located in the tiny village of Recess, 13 miles

from Clifden on the main N59 road to Galway City. The Giant is on view all day, 7 days, and parking is

free. Registered with the Crafts Council of Ireland. See map page 9.

the Point Pony trekking and horse Riding Centre is AIRE approved and situated right next to the most dazzling sandy beaches, beside the Connemara Championship Golf Links. If you want to discover the most spectacular coastal scenery in the area on horseback, this is

the place for you. All treks are accompanied by qualified staff and both beginners and experienced

riders are welcome. 1 hr treks (€30/pp) and 2 hr treks (special discount €50/pp instead of €60/pp) daily. Longer treks on request. Safety hats and boots available free of charge. From Clifden drive south to Ballyconneely village (9km), after Keogh's Bar turn right and follow the signs to The Point Pony Trekking and Horse Riding (6km). See advert page 11.

Locate activities and attractions on the maps. See number corresponding to each activity or attraction under map, page 8.

Cycling On a sunny day in Clifden, the best thing to do is hop on your bike and explore; the landscape looks even more magnificent when experienced out in the fresh open air of Connemara. Mannion’s Cycles (see advert on page 9) offers a comprehensive bike rental service which includes insurance, lock and

repairs. All the accessories you need are there; helmets, carrier bags, child seats and maps. Use the map on page 9 to make your own itinerary, or follow one of our 5 suggested cycle routes.

activitiesand attractions

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the sky Road Justifiably famous for the views it affords, the Sky Road route takes you up among the hills overlooking Clifden Bay and its offshore islands, Inishturk and Turbot. Follow the signposts from Market Square and on the way be sure to climb Monument Hill. At the summit you

will find a stone memorial to the town’s founder, John D’Arcy (1785-1839). See Cycle Route on map page 9.

the Bog Road The tranquil scenery of the Bog Road with the backdrop of the Twelve Bens is a true spectacle. Driving or cycling, take the R341 towards Ballyconneely and turn left at Ballinaboy, driving along the famous Roundstone Bog Conservation Area, turning right to Roundstone,

back towards Ballyconneely and returning to Clifden by the coast. See also Drives and Day Tours on page 10.

the station house Museum is located on the site of the old Clifden Railway Station and provides visitors with a history of Clifden, the Connemara Pony, the Galway to Clifden railway line, Millars Mill and Alcock and Brown (first transatlantic flight). There is also a photographic exhibition on the Marconi wireless station. €2 adult,

€1 child over 5, €6.50 family rate. Advert page 14.

Alcock and Brown and Marconi site3 miles south of Clifden (see plane symbol on map page 9) is the crash-landing site of the first transatlantic flight of Alcock and Brown (1919) and monument to this historic achievement. Nearby is the site of the radio transmitter station from which

Marconi exchanged the first transatlantic radio messages with a station in Nova Scotia (1907).

Clifden Castle Built c1810 by Clifden’s founder John D’Arcy, this was once his residence. From Clifden, take the Sky Road until the gateway arch (left). Stroll along a winding trail edged with a series of five standing stones (only one is original). Soon you will be led downhill and turning right

to discover a magnificent view of Clifden Bay and Clifden Castle. Walking only – parking not permitted.

Beaches Connemara's beaches are all individual, coming with their own different types of sand, rocks and an infinite variety of small shells. The Coral Strand in Ballyconneely is easy to access and unusual for its golden coral sand. The beaches of Mannin Bay, a collection of

white sandy beaches, are another must-see. Some popular beaches are listed on page 13.

the Beach Road A local favourite, the Beach Road is one of the most peaceful and serene walks in Clifden. Instead of taking a right at the fork toward the Sky Road, take a left. This will lead you downhill towards Clifden Harbour. Follow the road until you reach the Boat Club or take a right

a little before that to proceed to the Sky Road, or trace your steps back to return to Clifden.

Omey Island This tidal island is accessible at low tide only. (See Cleggan Tour on page 10 for directions and see page 13 for tides.) Close to the north coast lie the ruins of Feichin's Church, unearthed 20 years ago after spending 3 centuries buried in the sand. The church is

surrounded by the remains of a semi-sunken village that was wiped out during the Famine.

Your Wedding Rings Specialists

Claddagh Rings

Pandora Style Beads

Connemara Marble JewelleryFinest Collection in Ireland

Have Your Name Carved onto an Ogham Pendant

Main Street, Clifden (# 83 on Map p. 8) Tel: 095 22119 celticimpresssions.com

UNIqUe IN IRelaNdHandmade on the PremisesO'Dalaigh Jewellers

Joyce ’s of Recessone of the best craft shops in Ireland

surprisingly different

find us on the map see page 9

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Main Street, Clifden T: 095-21130 visit guysbarclifden.com

COSY SETTING • fINE wINES • frEE wI-fIOvEN-bakEd pIzzaS • GluTEN-frEE OpTIONS

TRaDIToNaL IRISh MuSIC fIrESIdE sessIon

wed-Sat 8-10pm along with food!

One of the best in Clifden!

SuMMEr SEafOOd MENu

GuYS bar & SNuG

Now €5.34/kg SuperValu Fresh Irish Pork Loin Roast was €10.69/kg

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Gordon’s Gin 70cl was €22.59 Now €18, Smirnoff 70cl was €22.90 Now €18, Paddy 70cl was €25.08 Now €20,

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All offers valid until Saturday 18th May 2013.Heineken/Budweiser/Carlsberg/Guinness Draft Can Pack 8 x 500ml €3/ltr, Corona/Light Bottle Pack 12 x 355ml €3.76/ltr, Miller Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml €3/ltr, Heineken Bottle Pack 20 x 330ml €3.03/ltr, Budweiser Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml €3.33/ltr. All offers subject to availability while stocks last. Customer quotas may apply. Enjoy alcohol responsibly.

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Now €5.29/kgSuperValu Fresh Irish Pork Loin Chops

was €10.59/kg

Heineken/Budweiser Can Pack 8 x 500ml was €15.49 Now €12,

€2EACH

Now €5.34/kg SuperValu Fresh Irish Pork Loin Roast was €10.69/kg

Now €9.71/kgSuperValu Fresh Irish Leg of Lamb (Butcher Counter Only) was €14.49/kg

Now €14.73/kgSuperValu Fresh Irish Lamb Loin Chops (Butcher Counter Only) was €21.99/kg

Heineken/Budweiser Can Pack 8 x 500ml was €15.49 Now €12, Carlsberg Can Pack 8 x 500ml was €13.99 Now €12,

Guinness Draft Can Pack 8 x 500ml was €15.99 Now €12, Corona/Light Bottle Pack 12 x 355ml was €20 Now €16,

Miller Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml was €23 Now €18, Heineken Bottle Pack 20 x 330ml was €25 Now €20, Budweiser Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml was €22 Now €20

Gordon’s Gin 70cl was €22.59 Now €18, Smirnoff 70cl was €22.90 Now €18, Paddy 70cl was €25.08 Now €20,

Bushmills 70cl was €26.29 Now €20, Smirnoff/Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 1ltr Now €23,

Jack Daniel’s 70cl was €31.49 Now €25

Gordon’s Gin 70cl was €22.59 Now €18,

1ltr

€12FROM

€18FROM

FROMFROM

See these and many more savings instore

All offers valid until Saturday 18th May 2013.Heineken/Budweiser/Carlsberg/Guinness Draft Can Pack 8 x 500ml €3/ltr, Corona/Light Bottle Pack 12 x 355ml €3.76/ltr, Miller Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml €3/ltr, Heineken Bottle Pack 20 x 330ml €3.03/ltr, Budweiser Bottle Pack 20 x 300ml €3.33/ltr. All offers subject to availability while stocks last. Customer quotas may apply. Enjoy alcohol responsibly.

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(See Instore for Details)

IRISHIRISH

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Now €5.29/kgSuperValu Fresh Irish Pork Loin Chops

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Heineken/Budweiser Can Pack 8 x 500ml was €15.49 Now €12,

€2EACH

HALFPRICE

sAvE33%

supervaluReal Food, Real PeopleDetails in-store. All offers valid until Saturday 18th May 2013.

Fresh Irish Pork Loin Roast €5.34/kgFresh Irish Leg of Lamb €9.71/kg

Fresh Irish Pork Loin Chops €5.29/kgFresh Irish Lamb Loin Chops €14.73/kg

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shopping special offers1. Cleanmarine Krill Oil / promotes a healthy brain and heart How Much? from €9.99-€21.99 Where? Moran's Pharmacy2. Irish farmhouse cheeses - taste before you buy - best selection in the West! Where? The Connemara Hamper3. Connemara Marble Collection How Much? €35-€129 (this Extra Large Pendant €79 instead of €98) Where? O'Dalaigh Jewellers4. Souvenirs How Much? 20% Off with this advert Where? King's Paper Shop5. Weird Fish Sweatshirt in a variety of colours and similar styles How Much? €59.99 Where? Hehirs of Clifden6. Claim your free Connemara Marble worry stone (worth €4) when you 'Like' the Connemara Giant on Facebook Where? Joyce's Craft Shop7. Take home a little part of Clifden nightlife - Connemara Blue Bottle Clocks, battery included How Much? €38 Where? Connemara Blue8. Ireland's ancient game as enjoyed by Barack Obama How Much? from €15 (buy 2 hurleys, ball for free) Where? Intersport Gannons 9. Merino, mohair and silk sweater by Fisherman Out of Ireland How Much? €131 Where? Cottage Handcrafts10. Yesterday We Were in America: Alcock & Brown Historic Flight by author Brendan Lynch How Much? €9.99 for H/B Where? The Clifden Bookshop

Locate shops on the maps. See number corresponding to each shop under map, page 8.

ExcEllEnt RangE of

SouvenirSGreetinG CardS

PoStCardSGiftS

all you nEEd foR fun on thE BEach

buCketS, SPadeS kiteS and moRE !

see our special offer below

KING’S PAPER SHOPMain street, clifden tel: 095-21119 open 7 days

Open Mon-Sat 9:30 to 7:30Sunday 12 to 6

Ladies & Gents Fashion

Market Street, Clifden Tel: 095-21282 www.hehirs.com Find us on Facebook 'Hehirs of Clifden'

HEHIRSOF CLIFdEn

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shopping special offers11. Connemara Smokehouse Smoked Salmon How Much? from €7.50 Where? Connemara Smokehouse12. Irish Prints How Much? 10% Off with this advert Where? Siobhan's House, Home and More13. Dubarry Pink Padded Jacket How Much? €175 Where? Millars Connemara14. Annette Gortz Dress How Much? €460 Where? Design Platform15. Smirnoff Vodka 1 Ltr How Much? was €30.99 now €22 Where? SuperValu Clifden16. Girls Vintage Rose Dress How Much? €19.99 Where? Ohh! By Gum17. Handcrafted Aran Jumpers from Aran Crafts How Much? €34.95 Where? Stanley's18. Hot pink and kelly green hoodies How Much? €19.99 instead of €24.99 while stocks last Where? Lowry's Sweater Shop19. Free prescription sunglasses when you purchase complete glasses at €150 or above Where? Ní Ráighne Opticians20. Lidded Jam/Sugar Jar How Much? €9.95 with any purchase or free with purchases over €50 Where? Alan Gaillard Stoneware Pottery 21. Enjoy a trip down memory lane with our range of traditional Irish sweets How Much? €2.95 each or 4 for €10 Where? Kylemore Abbey

LOWRY'S SWEATER & GIFT SHOPMarket Street, Clifden, Co. Galway telephone: 353 95 21139

Guinness Branded Clothing Range & Souvenir Gifts

'Thomas Joseph' Sheep ThemedGifts & 'Wacky Woolly' Gift Range

TradiTional STyle SweaTerS and acceSSorieS

GrandfaTher ShirTS, T-ShirTS reTro hoodieS, haTS, capS

"the world's best outdoor sweater"

Get 10% off all your purchases when you show this advert does not apply with other offers

€25 off any Barbour or Magee Jackets with this advert

MARKET ST., CLIFDENTelephone 095-21039

Open 7 Days Main St, Clifden t 095 21038 Email: millarsconnemara@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

O s k a H O B B s L i s a s H aw g i D u Ba r ry C r e a

We invite you to see our new Dubarry in-store, the first of its type in Ireland.

Dubarry collection includes outdoor wear, sporting jackets, yachting apparel and footware for both ladies and gents

Checkout our other fantastic labels!

M I L L A R SC O N N E M A R ADESIgnER ClOthIng hOMEWaRE gIFtS

a Unique Shopping Experience in luxurious Surroundings

annette gortz, lilith, noa noa amazing Woman Jeans, Eva Kayan Sarah Pacini and lots more!See the must-have pieces on our Facebook page!

the Courtyard, Clifden Station houseOpen 7 Days tel: 095 21526

www.designplatform.ie

DESIGN PLATFORM

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clifdenAlan Gaillard Stoneware Pottery & Feltwork Art Studios 88Connemara Blue Hand-Crafted Glass 90Cullens Bistro and Coffee Shop 73Design Platform 18E.J. King's Bar and Restaurant 46Foyle's Hotel / Marconi Restaurant 65Griffin's Bar 15 Guy’s Bar 67Hehirs of Clifden 92Intersport Gannons 37Jasmine Garden Chinese Restaurant 17J.Conneely's Bar and Restaurant 42King's Paper Shop 21Lowry's Sweater and Gift Shop 35Lowry's Traditional Irish Music and Whiskey Bar 61 Mannion's Bar 16Mannion’s Cycles 20Millars 93Mitchell's Restaurant 3Moran's Pharmacy 77Mullarkey’s Bar 62

Ní Ráighne Opticians 68 O'Dalaigh Jewellers 83Ohh! By Gum 10O'Malley's Bar and Restaurant 70Siobhan's House, Home and More 28Stanley's 11Station House Museum 14 Station House Restaurant / Station House Hotel 66SuperValu 12 The Clifden Bookshop 64The Connemara Hamper 89 The Quay House Guesthouse 59The Station Bar 100

connemaraBallynahinch Castle / The Owenmore Restaurant 107Cleggan Beach Riding Centre 103Connemara Championship Golf Links, Ballyconneely 106Connemara National Park, Letterfrack 95Connemara Smokehouse, Ballyconneely 108Cottage Handcrafts, Moyard 105Inishbofin Island Discovery - Ferry to Inishbofin, Cleggan 101Joyce's Craft Shop and Art Gallery, Recess 91Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden 51Oliver's Bar and Restaurant, Cleggan 63The Point Pony Trekking and Horse Riding, Ballyconneely 109

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Showgrounds

Clifden Station House

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maps reference numbers

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2kmon the right

Playground

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9061

to GAA Field

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clifden

Clifden

Harbou

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2 COURSES €24.95 P.P.

OR 3 COURSES €29.95 P.P.

Email: info@niraighneopticians.ieBridgE St, ClifdEn tEl: 095 30995

Purchase Complete Glasses at €150 or above and Get Free Prescription Sunglasses

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Gothic Church

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

For more information contact:T: +353 95 52001 E: info@kylemoreabbeytourism.iewww.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie

Enjoy a range of attractions including:

i 6 acre Victorian Walled Gardeni Restored Rooms of the Castlei Gothic Church i Craft Shopi Guided Tours / Self Guided Toursi Set in a 1000 acre estatei Mitchell's Café & Tea Housei Children's Play Trail

Nestled in the heart of Connemara Learn about the romance that started it all, the tragedy that befell it and the restoration to its former glory.

Victorian Walled Gardens

Mitchell’s Cafe

The ideal way to discover Connemara

all tyPeS of bikeS for HireMountain and Hybrids

daily & Weekly rateS

open Mon–Sat 9:30am–6pm Sundays 10am–12noon

mannIon'S cyclESMobile: 087-418-2051 www.clifdenbikes.com

bridge street, clifden tel: 095-21160 / 21155

88

106

connemara

cycle routes Loop 1: Sky Road 17km

Loop 2: Errislannan 17km

Loop 3: Cleggan / Claddaghduff 33km

Loop 4: Roundstone / Ballyconneely 40km

Loop 5: North Connemara 55km

See connemara.net for Google map of each route

sheffrey hills

the twelve bens

loughmask

loughcorrib

maumturk mountains

partry mountains

Site of Marconi wireless station Connemara Giant Alcock & Brown landing site Kylemore Abbey & Garden Connemara Championship Golf Links

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nEW BaR noW oPEn In ouR hEatEd BEER gaRdEn • aIR condItIonIngSmokIng aREa • 4 laRgE ScREEnS (Sky SPoRtS hd) & BIg ScREEn In Back BaR

Trad Music Nightly, 8pm till late • Lunch Served Mon-Sat 12-5pm

Irish Coffee • Americano • Espresso • Hot Chocolate • Cappuccino • Latte • Macchiato • Mocha

SouP of thE day • homEmadE SEafood choWdER • fRESh SEafood • SmokEd SalmonhomE cookEd daIly SPEcIalS • PanInIS • WRaPS • SandWIchES • SaladS • dESSERtS

All items on our menu are available for take-away

Main St, Clifden Tel: 095 21370 www.griffinsbar.ie See our events on our Facebook page.

It’s said that Griffin’s Bar serves the best pint of Guinness in Clifden.

Roundstone and Ballyconneely From Clifden, take the R341 towards Ballyconneely and turn left at Ballinaboy bridge, driving along the Bog Road that crosses the famous Roundstone Bog Conservation Area. Turn right towards Roundstone and follow the coast

road. Before entering the village, why not turn left at the bridge and spend a

little while on the island of Inishnee? Then, continue driving along the coast until you reach Roundstone. In the town you will find fantastic craft shops, art galleries and the musical instruments workshop where they make Ireland’s traditional goatskin drum, the bodhrán. A Franciscan monastery was founded there in the 1830s, but all that remains now is the gateway entrance and church bell tower. Relax and enjoy a meal or a drink at O'Dowd's before returning to Clifden via Ballyconneely, where you can stop-off at Keogh’s. There are many pristine beaches in the area and the west of the village is home to the Connemara Smokehouse, The Point Pony Trekking and Horse Riding Centre and the Connemara Championship Golf Links. At the foot of Doon Hill, you will also find Bunowen Castle, which can be admired from the road. Photo: Gurteen

Inagh Valley and Kylemore No visit to Connemara is complete until you have seen the majestic Inagh Valley. Leaving Clifden on the N59 heading east past Ballynahinch Lough to your right, you will see the ruins of the ‘castle on the lake’ which once served

as a prison to those who had ill-treated animals. Further on you will also see

the picturesque Derryclare Lake to your left. There is a small car park where you can stop-off. This is probably one of the most photographed scenes in Ireland. Then, continue until you reach Recess village where you will find the Connemara Giant and Joyce’s Craft Shop, home to the famous Connemara Marble. Turn back towards Clifden; after about 500 metres turn right (before the narrow bridge) onto the R344, which will finally take you through the Inagh Valley. Meandering past Lough Inagh, the Twelve Bens are to your left, with the Maumturk mountain range to your right. This is a stunningly beautiful scenic route, taking you past turf stacks, sheep and glorious countryside, until you emerge at the other end of the valley. Here you can either turn left to return to Clifden and visit Kylemore Abbey and Garden on the way, or turn right to extend your tour further towards Leenane and Killary Harbour. Photo: Derryclare Lake

Cleggan and Claddaghduff From Clifden, take the N59 towards Westport, and at approximately 5km outside the town turn left towards Claddaghduff. A couple of miles further along Streamstown Bay you will see the ruins of Doon Castle on your left. Omey

Island is next, accessible by car or on foot at low water, by crossing acres of

firm sandy beach. Follow the direction poles in the sand on your way across, but make sure you check the tide timetable on page 13 beforehand! Omey has a wealth of antiquities. Teampaill Féichín can be found on the northern side of the island, a medieval church built on a 7th century Christian settlement that was covered in sand until 1981. St Féichín’s well can also be found to the west, just above a rocky inlet. Returning to the mainland, continue towards Claddaghduff and then on towards the working fishing village of Cleggan, home to Oliver's Bar and Restaurant and Cleggan Beach Riding Centre. From the pier you can also take the ferry to Inishbofin. See page 12 for further information. Then, either take the bog road back to Clifden or continue to Moyard via Ballynakill, and then turn right on your way back to Clifden. Photo: Inishbofin Harbour

Renvyle Peninsula and leenane Dominated by Tully Mountain, the Renvyle Peninsula offers panoramic sea views and a slice of the old Irish way of life. Take the N59 towards Westport. The peninsula is signposted left at the Quaker village of Letterfrack.

The villages of Tully Cross and further on, Tully, have a number of real old-Irish

bars where a pint of Guinness goes down well. At Tully Cross, continue towards the end of the peninsula to see the ruins of Renvyle Castle. There are stunning views across Ballynakill Bay and, on a clear day, you can see the conical mountain of Croagh Patrick, County Mayo. Returning to Tully Cross, take the left turn by the church and follow the elevated coast road towards Little Killary Bay. Shortly after, turn left to stop off at the glorious sandy beach of Glassilaun. Continue along Lough Fee until you reach the N59, where you can either turn right to return to Clifden, or left towards Leenane. This quaint village is located at the head of the spectacular Killary Fjord and boasts one of the finest views in the country. The rugged countryside is completely unspoilt. The majestic mountains of Ben Gorm and Mweelrea bound the calm waters of the Killary, and the Maumturk, Sheffrey and Twelve Bens mountain ranges perfectly frame the view. In the heart of Leenane you will find a museum and cultural centre, shops and bars, and you might hear tales of when Hollywood came to the locality to film ‘The Field’, starring the legendary Richard Harris. Photo: Glassilaun Beach

drives and day tours

See connemara.net for a Google map of each drive. See also page 12 for further information about Roundstone or Inishbofin.10

Mail Order Service & Gift Vouchers Available

A Guide to Seaweed

Cookery & Foraging

by Marie Power

for more info visit theseagardener.ie

'The Sea Garden'Just arrived!Books on Local Interest,

Irish History, Fiction A-Z, Bestsellers, Guide Books, Maps

Postcards, Greeting Cards

Stockists of Artists SuppliesBrushes, Canvases, Easels, Paints

Discover connemara's most stunning beaches anD coastline on horseback

Beginners and Advanced Riders Welcome!We speak English, French, Dutch and German

A.I.R.E. Approved

Ballyconneely, Co. Galway (beside beaches and Connemara Golf Links)tel: (0)95 23685 / (0)87 246 82 94 thepointponytrekkingcentre.com

the Point Pony trekking anD horse riDing centre

Moran's PharMacy

Hay Fever Treatments • AntihistaminesInsect Repellent • Sunscreen • Toiletries

First Aid Supplies • Passport Photos

Main St, Clifden Tel:095 21273 moranspharmacy.com

Professional and Personalised Healthcare

over 100 years in business est. 1911

walk beach road / sky roadPaved road except trail to Clifden Castle / 5km / 1 to 2 hrs

Leave Clifden by the Beach Road, descending towards the quay. Directly ahead on the hill opposite is a monument to John D’Arcy, the founder of Clifden and the man who built Clifden Castle. This monument took a long time to construct. Begun in 1839, the year of D'Arcy's death, it was not completed until the local heritage group undertook the project in 1992. You can learn more about John D'Arcy and the history of Clifden at clifdenheritage.org, the new website of the Clifden and Connemara Heritage Society.

Just after the ball alley and childrens' playground you will arrive at Clifden Quay. Alexander Nimmo drew up the plans for the quay in 1822, and it was completed in 1831. Clifden Inshore Lifeboat Station is located here and is called out on a regular basis. The Owenglen River empties into the estuary here, and the sandy mud flats at low tide are the result of material carried by the river in spate. The walk continues along the estuary overlooking Faul peninsula on the far side and, as we continue, a fine vista opens over Clifden Bay. The mouth of the estuary has many hidden rocks, and the navigation channel is marked with stone beacons.

After about 2km, the road widens into a parking area for Clifden Beach. The Clifden Boat Club is 100 metres further ahead. It houses the Boardwalk Café, where you can stop-off for refreshments. Then, walk back to take the first left, up the hill of Mine Road. Looking back we occasionally get a fine view over the bay and the distant navigation mark, the White Lady on the south-western approaches. A lime-kiln is integrated into the stone wall on the right side of the road 800 metres from the turn. This was used to burn lime-rich rock

to fertilise the acidic fields of the Clifden demesne (D’Arcy’s home) to your left. Soon you come to the castle gates, the entrance to the demesne. If you have the time, spend an hour exploring here amid the ruins of D’Arcy’s splendid home – exploring inside the castle is not advised. See page 5 for further information about Clifden Castle. Walking back towards the town, you will notice a sign pointing to the John D'Arcy Monument to your right. A short climb to the summit of Monument Hill will reward you with panoramic vistas of Clifden Bay, Clifden Town and the surrounding area, a good opportunity for photography enthusiasts.

Source: 'Walking in Connemara: Shorter Walks to Explore the Hidden Connemara'Connemara Tourism 1996. Available at The Clifden Bookshop - see advert page 10.

More about walking on page 4. See also connemara.net for more walks.

above: Castle Connemara Ponies

tel: 095 23739 email: info@smokehouse.iebunowen pier, aillebrack, ballyconneely, clifden, co.Galway

traditional Smoked Salmon saumon fumé

tours and tastings share the roberts family's incredible passion for handmade quality food Read more on page 4

Buy our products online at smokehouse.ie

Visitors Welcome

11

Tel: 083 388 8135 / 095 44746 email: jcaz@eircom.net www.clegganridingcentre.com

Connemara's Premier Beach Trekking Centre Long & Short Beach Rides Riding Holidays Lessons from Beginner to Advanced Horses & Ponies to suit Adults & Children Half Day Pony Camps by Arrangement

CLeggan BeaCH Riding Centre

10% Discount on Omey & Sellerna Treks

on presentation of this voucher Valid until end of September 2013. Groups and families:

please note that you only need to bring one voucher.

Connemara iPad App

Available on the App Store

Connemaravisitor guide

Information / Bookings Call: 095-45819 / 086-1718829086-8359920 Cleggan Ticket Office: 095-44878

Email: info@inishbofinislanddiscovery.com

Fantastic Sea Views • Superb FoodComfortable Accommodation

Warm, Relaxed, Welcoming Atmosphere

DOONMORE HOTELRestaurant & Bar

Managed by the Murray Family for Three Generations

INIsHBOfIN IsLaND T: 095 45804 E: doonmore@gmail.com

Perched on the edge of the Atlantic on Connemara’s west coast lies Roundstone, built in the 1820s by Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo. Roundstone is a

charming village drawing its picturesque and peaceful character from its harbour and the soothing presence of the ocean, which is never far from one’s view. It’s no wonder the area is popular with visitors, has been the inspiration of many books and has served as the location for some high-profile Hollywood movies. Strolling through the town you will find some fantastic craft shops, cafés, bars and restaurants and a farmers market every Sunday. Take time to relax in O'Dowd's, Connemara's oldest pub. Look out for your chance to beat an Irish traditional drum, the bodhrán. The rugged backdrop to the village is the small mountain of Errisbeg, which rises to about a thousand feet. South of the village you will also find the breathtaking crescent-shaped beaches of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay. Photo: Galway Hooker at Roundstone Regatta

For a taste of island life, take a boat trip to Inishbofin, 8km long by 3km wide, population 200. The 'Island of the White Cow' is located 10km west of Cleggan (30 minutes by ferry). This is a small paradise that features all the best that Connemara has to offer – a rich history, stunning Atlantic coast scenery, spectacular walks and Green Coast Award beaches with crystal clear waters.

The island's visitors are given an extraordinary chance to come in contact with some of Connemara's best preserved

heritage – Bronze Age landscapes, a Cromwell’s

17th century star-shaped fort, ancient burial grounds and a ruined 13th century church standing on the grounds of an original 7th century monastery founded by Saint Colman. Three looped walks, the Middlequarter Loop, Westquarter Loop and Cloonamore Loop (see discoverireland.ie

for maps) afford panoramic views of the Connemara mountains and the island’s cliffs, sea stacks and seal colonies. Inishbofin is also a breeding area for many species of birds and is indeed one of the rare places in Ireland where the threatened Corncrake can still be heard calling across the island. Inishbofin is also famous for its musical heritage and it continues to be a haven for music lovers with sessions held regularly during the summer months, starting with the very popular Inishbofin Arts Festival in May. Inishbofin really is the perfect place to explore and unwind.

Visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome with three hotels, a hostel and campsite, B&Bs and cottages available for rent. Tickets for day trips to Inishbofin can be bought in Cleggan or on the ferry itself. See page 16 for ferry times and fares.

roundstoneharbour village

inishbofinisland of the white cow

Further information at roundstone.ie Inishbofin Island Community Centre, Tel: 095 45895 Further information at inishbofin.com

Roundstone, Co. Galway Tel: 095-35809 odowdsrestaurant.com Further info on p. 15

Seafood Bar, Restaurant & Coffee Shop

Overlooking Roundstone

HarbourFresh Seafood Daily

Choose from over 20 premium Irish WhiskeysSelection of Irish Craft Beers

Awards Best Gastro Pub Galway and Connacht 2011, Michelin Bib Gourmand 2013 2013 Recommended Bridgestone Guide, Georgina Campbell, Frommers, Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, BIM Seafood Circle

Serving Food All Day 9am to 10pm

InIshbofIn house hotel& MarIne spa

CONTACT US Call 095 45809

TimeleSS, TrANqUil, UNSpOilT

E: info@inishbofinhouse.com W: inishbofinhouse.com

12

Every FridayClifden Town Square

Every Sunday 11am-4pmRoundstone Harbour Village

Please support the local markets !

Craft & Food Markets

fishing InformationPermits available from 10am to 11am* daily at Stanley's, Clifden map #11

*Sundays 11am to 12pmBoat Rental €25 per day

trout fishing No charge for children under 16 on the lakes. Daily rate: €10 / Weekly rate: €30

salmon fishing Also requires a state licence.Owenglen River daily rate: €25 / weekly rate: €80

Deep-sea Angling Aboard The Celtic Queendeparting from Clifden Harbour daily. Further information on page 4.

Evening Angling trips From 6-8pm, departs Letterfrack pier (on N59). Booking is essential, please call John Mongan on 087-6461189.

Connemara smokehouse Get your own fish smoked, and even shipped home! Advert page 11.

glass-Bottomed Boat tours Sea tours departing daily from 24th May. Tours are weather dependant. Read more on page 4. Advert below.

Beaches See red numbers corresponding to each beach on the Connemara map, page 9:Coral Strand 1, Mannin Beach 2, Dog’s Bay 3,Gurteen 4, Aillebrack 5, Omey Strand 6, Glassilaun 7, White Strand 8.

Glass-Bottomed Boat ToursTours begin Friday 24th May Tours Every Fine and Fair Day Duration 1 hourBooking essential - Tours are weather dependantDeparts 11am, 12:30, 2:30pm, 4pm and 5pm

Departure Location Letterfrack Pier on the N59 beside Avoca shop and the National Park #34 on map page 9

Tickets available from Avoca shop or on the boat

Telephone: 095-43473 / 087-6461189

May time Metres

Thursday 16 LW 03:32 1.5 HW 09:54 4.0 LW 15:47 1.8 HW 22:07 4.1

Friday 17 LW 04:26 1.7 HW 10:51 3.8 LW 16:46 2.0 HW 23:06 3.9

Saturday 18 LW 05:29 1.7 HW 11:58 3.8 LW 17:55 2.0

Sunday 19 HW 00:14 3.9 LW 06:37 1.7 HW 13:07 3.9 LW 19:07 1.9

Monday 20 HW 01:25 4.0 LW 07:42 1.6 HW 14:11 4.1 LW 20:11 1.7

Tuesday 21 HW 02:29 4.2 LW 08:38 1.3 HW 15:04 4.3 LW 21:03 1.4

Wednesday 22 HW 03:22 4.5 LW 09:27 1.1 HW 15:52 4.7 LW 21:52 1.1

May time Metres

Thursday 23 HW 04:13 4.7 LW 10:14 0.8 HW 16:38 5.0 LW 22:39 0.7

Friday 24 HW 05:00 5.0 LW 10:59 0.6 HW 17:22 5.3 LW 23:24 0.5

Saturday 25 HW 05:46 5.2 LW 11:43 0.5 HW 18:07 5.4

Sunday 26 LW 00:10 0.3 HW 06:33 5.2 LW 12:30 0.5 HW 18:53 5.4

Monday 27 LW 00:58 0.3 HW 07:21 5.2 LW 13:17 0.6 HW 19:41 5.4

Tuesday 28 LW 01:47 0.4 HW 08:11 5.0 LW 14:07 0.8 HW 20:31 5.1

Wednesday 29 LW 02:40 0.6 HW 09:05 4.7 LW 15:01 1.1 HW 21:25 4.9

tide timetable galway aqua infoFor Connemara, add 5 minutes. HW: High Water LW: Low Water

every thursday Open-Mic Baskethouse

sat 18th may American Folk & Bluegrass with Tumbling Bones from Portland, USA

Main Street, Clifden telephone: 095-21801

Marconir e s t a u r a n t

special accommodation rates available Daily Please inquire

Foyle’s Hotel

open Daily 6–9:15pmearly Bird Menu (6-6:45pm)

2-course €22.95 or 3-course €25.95 choosing from our À la carte menu

See music schedule on page 3 for an exhaustive list of gigs.

13

Ireland’s Largest and Best Equipped Sea Angling Boat

Charter €500 per day / €100 per hour (min. 2 hours)Day Charter €50pp. Evening Trips Available.

SKIPPER JOHN RYAN TELEPHONE 09521069 MOBILE 0862484674 A great day out! Skipper has over 30 years experience! Fishing gear for hire.

kItchEnWaRE • beddinG • gIftS souvenirs • SWEEtS • and More

Come in to see

our wide selection!

JuSt oPEnEd Market st, clifden

events and festivals

See connemara.net/events for more upcoming events and festivals.

Roundstone Bay 8K Race - May 18Run alongside the bay in beautiful Roundstone, then relax and enjoy the craic as the sun goes down! The race takes in some of the most breathtaking scenery on the west coast, and follows a figure of eight loops, beginning and

ending in Roundstone. The course will be officially measured and chip timing will be provided for all participants. Refreshments will also be made available on the day. Start time for the race is 1pm. Registration is €20 and it can be done online at roundstonebay8k.com. Read more about Roundstone on page 12.

summer turf Warrior - May 25Turf Warrior is a bog-crawling, wall-leaping, rope-swinging, bone-chilling and extremely entertaining Gaelforce event organised by the Killary Adventure Centre of Leenane, in North Connemara. They have invested heavily

into one of the UK’s top ropes course and sky frames builders. 'Turf Warriors' conquer extreme obstacles, push their mental and physical limits – and celebrate afterwards with an epic fancy dress party, music and good old Irish craic. Read more at turfwarriorchallenge.com. See also gaelforceevents.com.

Conamara Bog Week - May 24-June 3The Conamara Bog Week in Letterfrack is a 10-day festival celebrating the Connemara landscape. The Conamara Walkabout, featuring artists and scientists exploring the landscape together, the Conamara Bog Week Fun Run, a

fundraiser for youth projects and the Connemara National Park Art Exhibition are just a few of many events that will take place during the festival. This is a good opportunity for visitors to hear some of the best live Irish music in the country. View the programme online at connemara.net/event/conamara-bog-week.

Inishbofin Walking festival - May 25-27Enthusiastic professional and local guides share their vast knowledge of local folklore, history, heritage and ecology during this wonderful festival. Featured walks lead to panoramic views of neighbouring islands and

main land, and to Inishbofin’s Iron and Bronze Age landscapes with mill stones, partitions and evidence of round stone houses, Iron Age promontory fort ruins, picturesque Trá Gheal beach and Famine road, and Saint Colman’s 14th century chapel and church lough. Read more about Inishbofin Island on page 12.

tour de Conamara - May 25-26The Tour de Conamara 2013 Celtic Series offers cyclists the choice of 140km or 80km routes and will travel through some of the finest coastal and mountainous landscapes in Ireland. Both routes are open to cyclists of all abilities.

Read more online at tourdeconamara.com.

Inishbofin half Marathon - May 18In aid of the West of Ireland Cardiac Foundation. The route will utilise the main road around the island. Race entry fee of €60 includes lunch and return ferry tickets valid between Friday 17th and Sunday 19th May, so one can travel just for

the race or make a weekend of it. More at croi.ie.

cullensBistro & Coffee Shop

market street, clifDen tel: 095 21983

serving lunch & evening meals

try ourWorlD famous DessertshomemaDe in-house

bringyour oWn

Wineno corkage fee

SEAFOOD • COnnEMARA LAMB STEWBEEF ‘n GuInnESS • LASAGnES • ChICkEn DIShES

great FOOD AT reasonable PRICES casual DInInG

Demonstrations of throWing anD feltWork Booking is essential, please call ahead

the stone house, WestPort roaD, clifDen 2km from clifDen on main n59 WestPort roaD

tel: 095 22786 Web: alangaillard.com email: mail@alangaillard.com

Alan Gaillard Stoneware& Felt art studio

See our exclusive reader offer on page 7

Market Street, Clifden tel 095-30001 Find us on Facebook.com/omalleysbarrestaurant

O’Malley’s Bar & RestaurantFresh Seafood, Steaks, Pasta and much more!

Enjoy the spectacular views from our restaurant

while you dine

Great Views while you dine!A Comfortable setting!

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Station House MuSEuM

Tel: 095 21494 www.connemara-pony.net

lEarn aBout

> Alcock & Brown

> Clifden Railway

> Connemara Ponies

> John D'Arcy

> Millars Mill

> Marconi

BE SurE to viSit

Books • dvdsPosters • Postcards

Opening hours:

Mon-Sat 11-4 & Sun 12-3

Cullens Bistro and Coffee Shop This long established family business (since 1950s) has a bright and cosy dining area. Serving local seafood platters, a variety of wraps (seafood, chicken, cheese, etc.), kebabs, Connemara lamb stew, beef 'n Guinness stew, smoked salmon and prawn salad, fish and chips, etc. Please leave room for our exquisite desserts all made in-house from fresh ingredients. Lunch 12-5pm, evening meals from 6:30pm. Daily specials available. Advert page 14.Doonmore Hotel The restaurant in Murray’s Doonmore Hotel, Inishbofin serves 4 course evening meals from 7:30pm. The menu offers a range of dishes including fresh seafood and lobster on request. Soup, chowders and desserts are all homemade and their delicious brown bread and scones are baked daily. Their renowned bar food is available daily 12-9pm. The famous chowder and freshly caught crab dishes bring people from all corners of the world again and again. Advert page 12. E.J.King's Bar and Restaurant Set on the Square in Clifden, E.J.King's are famous for their fresh seafood and traditional Irish dishes. Food is served in both the bar and the restaurant every day. Why not try the value dining menu, 2 courses €22.50 or 3 courses €24.95, offer includes a free Irish coffee if you dine between 5:30 and 7:30pm. And yes they cater for little ones. Live music 7 nights a week. See what customers have to say on tripadvisor.com. Visit ejkings.com for menus. See music schedule page 3. Advert above.Griffin's Bar A local favourite and Clifden’s premier sports bar. Lunch is served Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. The bar food menu features freshly prepared soup of the day, homemade seafood chowder, fresh seafood (subject to availability), smoked salmon, home-cooked daily specials, paninis, wraps, sandwiches, salads and desserts. Enjoy a game of pool or darts. Look out for live matches on the big screen TV and impromptu music sessions. See schedule page 3. Advert page 9.

Guy's Bar and Snug Relax in a cosy setting where old and new traditions meet. Guy's extensive menu includes summer seafood specials, traditional fish and chips, beef and Guinness stew, burgers, vegetarian and gluten-free options all homemade from locally sourced suppliers where possible. Savour fine wines, exclusive herbal teas and excellent coffee and take-away oven baked pizzas. Trad music sessions in the evenings. See schedule page 3. Visit guysbarclifden.com for menus. Advert page 5.Jasmine Garden Chinese Restaurant offers authentic Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. Experienced head chef Raymond Wong brings to you delicious Chinese dishes with that homemade taste that will be sure to please all patrons. The restaurant has two spacious dining rooms which are tastefully decorated with exotic pieces of Chinese furniture. Takeaway available. Open 7 days. Weekdays 5:30pm-11:30pm and weekends 5:30pm-late. Advert below.J.Conneely's Bar Located on the edge of the Atlantic, J'Conneely's Bar boasts one of the most spectacular views you are likely to experience in Clifden. Their balcony is the ideal spot to enjoy fresh local seafood and a pint of Guinness while gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean. Try the Atlantic Seafood Chowder, mussels, oak-smoked salmon or their now famous Whale of a Fish. Join in on the outstanding Lively Irish Music Session every evening from 6:30pm. Advert page 3.Kylemore Abbey's Mitchell's Café offers a range of home-cooked meals in a stunning setting. Try a traditional Irish dish using ingredients from the Victorian Walled Garden and recipes bestowed by the Benedictine nuns. The Tea House, located by the walled garden, is another haven where you can relax while taking in the breathtaking views of the Connemara National Park. A wide range of Irish artisan products are available to take home. Advert page 9.

Mannion's Bar Serving tasty food from 12-9pm, Mannion's specialise in local seafood such as fish of the day, smoked fish chowder, Killary mussels, smoked Connemara salmon and traditional favourites such as Connemara lamb stew, homemade burgers and steaks. Children's meal deal €4.95. Remember to check the daily specials, and to leave room for dessert! Advert above.Marconi Restaurant is a charming family-run restaurant managed personally by the Foyles for over a century. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally where possible, specialising in seafood and traditional Irish favourites. The Marconi is set in distinctive surroundings, full of artefacts covering the history of Connemara and the hotel. Expect a professional, friendly service and creative cooking offered at a fair price and in a relaxed ambience. Advert page 13.Mitchell's Seafood Restaurant Since opening almost twenty years ago, this family-run restaurant has long attracted visitors for its excellent seafood and imaginative cooking of the freshest fish and shellfish. There is also a great choice for non-seafood eaters. 3 course value menu €25.95 all evening Sunday to Friday. Saturdays and Bank Holiday weekends only available until 6:30pm. Advert page 16.O'Dowd's Seafood Restaurant, Bar and Café Established in 1840, O'Dowd's is the oldest pub in all of Connemara, family-run for four generations. Enjoy a great pint of Guinness in this historic setting or outside overlooking Roundstone Harbour. Unmissable fresh local seafood – try their famous seafood chowder! Bar food 12-9:30pm, restaurant 5-9:30pm. Next door is the Café, open 9:30am-6pm and serving freshly-made dishes to take away or eat in. Wi-Fi available. Advert page 12.Oliver's Bar and Restaurant The Restaurant, open from 6pm-10pm (booking advisable), overlooks the busy fishing harbour in the quaint village of Cleggan, where most of their fresh fish comes from. Sample a wide range of local fish and meat dishes, complemented by the finest vegetables and salads. Seasonal highlights are the salmon, Connemara lamb

and delicious varieties of flatfish. You can also pick your own live lobster from their chilled seawater tank. Advert page 16.O'Malley's Bar and Restaurant Indulge in the finest of food while overlooking one of the most spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Food served daily from 8am until late. The menus offer a wide variety such as Irish stew, chowder, fish and chips, oysters, mussels, sea bass, steak and pasta. Relax afterwards with a drink in the bar and enjoy the live music sessions. Schedule page 3. Advert page 14. The Beach Day's Bar Established for almost a century and very well located on Inishbofin's waterfront, Day's Bar has a welcoming feel to it. Great pints of Guinness, selection of world beers, wines and spirits. Food served daily 12-9pm. The ethos is around locally-caught seafood and local organic produce where possible. The local waters offer lobster, crab, mackerel and the humble pollack, all of which are featured seasonally. Advert page 12.The Connemara Hamper Clifden's only cheese shop and award-winning deli (where you can taste your cheese before you buy it) offers a range of lunch ideas. Their lovely baguettes are very popular and are among Connemara's tastiest. Enjoy a fresh cup of Illy coffee. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Advert above. The Owenmore Restaurant at Ballynahinch Castle Hotel insists upon using only the freshest of ingredients available, pursuing the organic option where possible.This 2 Rosette restaurant offers the discerning diner the best of locally caught fish, game and other local produce. In the Fisherman's Pub, where a less formal menu is available, guests can enjoy a pint with the local fishing guides. Advert page 16. The Station Bar At the heart of the Station House Courtyard in Clifden is the tastefully restored station master’s house and train platform, a period building offering a place to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink. The finest ingredients with a focus on local produce, ensure quality of a high standard. Menu served 12-9pm, with mouth-watering dishes such as seafood chowder, fish and chips and a selection of light snacks. Advert page 8.

JaSMINe GaRdeNCHINeSe ReSTaURaNT

authentic Chinese FoodTake-Away and Delivery Service

Market Street, Clifden Tel: 095-21174

what's on the menu?

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Starts 8:30pm

The Lavelle Art GalleryMain Street, Clifden, Co. Galway

useful info€ AtMs and Banks

Esso Station - ATM Clifden map #7 SuperValu - ATM Clifden map #12Bank of Ireland Clifden map #56AIB Bank Clifden map #98

À Banks Opening hoursMonday 10am-12:30 and 1:30pm-5pm

Tues-Thurs-Fri 10am-12:30 and 1:30pm-4pmWednesday 10:30am-12:30 and 1:30pm-4pm

Bike hire Clifden map #20Mannion's Cycles See advert page 9

Church timesClifden Church of Ireland Sunday Service 11:30

Clifden RC Church Mon-Fri 9:30, Sat 19:00, Sun 11:30Ballyconneely Catholic Church Sunday 10:00Roundstone Catholic Church Sunday 12:00Roundstone Church of Ireland Sunday Service 10:00

p garda station - Police ) 095 22500 See symbol on Clifden map

health See surgery symbols on Clifden mapClifden Medical Practice ) 095 22272 #1

Dr. Ciaran MacLoughlin ) 095 21141 #2 Dr. Sophie Faherty, Women Clinic ) 087 2226783 #4 Dr. Aonghus Flavin ) 095 35851 RoundstoneDr. Alex Michel ) 095 43465 Tully, RenvyleClifden Dental Practice ) 095 22731Sarah Casey Physiotherapist ) 086 3896130

laundry service Not self-serviceHillview Launderette Clifden map #99

Shamrock Dry Cleaners & Washeteria Clifden map #55Ferrons Shop (Roundstone) Collections at 3pm Mon-Fri

library Opening hours See Clifden map symbolMon, Wed 2:30pm-6pm and 6:30pm-8:30pm

Tues, Thurs, Sat 10:30am-1pm and 2:30pm-6pmFri 10:30am-1pm, 2:30pm-6pm and 6:30pm-8:30pm

P Parking Information See symbols on Clifden mapPublic car park behind Clifden Tourist Office

St. Joseph’s Church car park, 9am-6pm daily €Parking in town, pay-and-display parking meters €SuperValu underground car park First hour free

Post Office See symbol on Clifden mapMon-Fri 9:30am-5:30pm / Sat 9:30am-1pm

Where else to buy stamps? Distributor outside Clifden Post Office, Kylemore Abbey Craft Shop, Ferron's in Roundstone Also post office at office hours

Public toilets Beside coach park - pay to use See Clifden map

Supervalu public toilets See opening hours below

supervalu Opening hours 8am-9pm daily except Friday 8am-10pm

take-Away Locate restaurants on Clifden map Griffin's Bar, Guy's Bar, Jasmine Garden,

SuperValu, The Connemara Hamper

i tourist Information Office) 095 21163 Location: Galway Road,

Clifden Town See symbol on Clifden map

Waste and Recyclables scheduleWeek for Recycling: May 20-24

Weeks for General Waste: May 13-17 and 27-31 Collection day varies depending on your location, please check with Barna Waste on 1890 300 450.

Western Veterinary Clinic) 095 22209 Clifden Business Park

Wi-fi / Internet Access See map symbolsFree Wi-Fi: E. J. King's Bar, Guy's Bar, Lowry's

Bar, Station House Hotel, O'Dowd's Café Roundstone

h for Emergencies, Dial 112 or 999Clifden Hospital ) 095 21301 See map symbol

v Bus Eireann ) 091 562000Departing Clifden Clifden Library

Weekdays: 9:00, 13:30 and 14:40 Sundays: 16:15Departing Galway New Coach StationWeekdays: 11:15, 13:00 and 18:15 Sundays: 12:50

v Citylink ) 091 564164Departing Clifden Clifden Library

Daily: 7:15, 9:15, 12:00, 15:15 and 18:30Departing Galway New Coach StationDaily: 9:00, 12:00, 14:30, 16:00 and 17:30

ferry to Inishbofin IslandTickets available at Cleggan Office or on the boat

€20 return adults, €10 return child, family rates available

Departing ClegganMon, Wed & Thurs 11:30am 2:00pm* 6:45pmTue & Fri 11:30am 2:00pm* 7:30pmSat & Sun 11:30am 2:00pm* 6:45pmDeparting InishbofinMon, Tues & Fri 8:15am 1:00pm* 5:00pmWed, Thurs & Sat 9:00am 1:00pm* 5:00pmSun** 10:00am 1:00pm* 5:00pm

* Weekends in May and daily in June, July and August ** and Monday of Bank Holiday

Connecting bus service to Cleggan - Citylink departing Clifden daily at 10:30, 13:30, 17:30

Petrol stationsEsso, Main Street, Clifden Map #80

Esso (Spar), Galway Road, Clifden Map #7Ferron's, Roundstone / Keogh's, Ballyconneely

taxi service to and from ClifdenThe Taxi Company ) 095 30000

Chris O'Neill ) 095 21444 / 086 8593939Chris O’Connor ) 086 3310270Noel King Roundstone ) 087 9582398Robert's Taxi ) 087 4161796

Visit connemara.net for more useful info.

Cottage HandcraftsMoyard, Connemara, Co. Galway T: 353 95 41029E: shop@cottagehandcrafts.ie Find us on Facebook

The Best of Irish Knitwear and Crafts

5 miles from Clifden on the Westport Road

Open Daily 12-10pm from March to October

3 Course Value Menu €25.95 all Evening Sunday to Friday. Saturdays and Bank Holiday weekends only available until 6:30pm.

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