Clifden

The gateway to Connemara, and the region’s ‘capital’, Clifden (An Clochán, meaning ‘stepping stones’) is a vibrant Victorian-era town presiding over the head of the narrow bay where the River Owenglin tumbles into the sea.

The panoramic Sky Road leads westward from Clifden to the Atlantic coastline. A short detour north brings visitors to the Connemara National Park at Letterfrack and to Ireland’s only fjord, the stunning Killary Harbour. The Sky Road also passes by the ruins of Clifden Castle, the former home of the town’s main founder and local landlord, John D’arcy.