Top 20 Natural Monuments in Connacht

The summit is relatively easy to climb, but don't be fooled into thinking you can find a way up from the valley floor. The path disappears as soon as you start the ascent. Good mobility is essential to get up there, as there are several small scree sections along the way. The descent, on the other hand, is disastrous. There's no path at all, and you have to traverse a very unpleasant, steep slope through moss and bushes. It's recommended to split the hike if you only want to reach the summit. Start from the car park at Lough Accorymore and don't attempt the circular route to the top. I really advise against doing the circular route; you won't enjoy the hike otherwise, but the view is still worth it. Just follow the route marked at the car park by the lake.

Aasleagh Falls is a pretty waterfall not far from Leenaun. It's set in a typically beautiful and mountainous Connemara landscape, where the Erriff River empties into the Killary Fjord. The intriguingly named Devilsmother rises to the east, while Ben Gorm rises to the west. This part of the Western Way can be prone to flooding. If the trail is impassable, the N59 can be used instead.

A Caisleán / O'Briens Castle Caisleán Uí Bhriain (O' Briens Castle) was built in the 14th century. It was built within an older ring fort called Dún Formna, which is thought to date from 400 BC. As well as fantastic views of the island, there are also magnificent views from the Cliffs of Moher, stretching to the left to the Burren, across Galway Bay to the 12 Pins of Connemara and to the west to Inis Meáin and Inis Mór. On a fine day you can even see the Kerry Mountains in the distance. It's worth taking your camera, especially for a spectacular sunset. The castle is a rectangular keep built by the O'Briens. They were a clan from County Clare who ruled the islands and large parts of Clare in the Middle Ages. From this castle they were able to control the shipping routes to Galway and are said to have operated protection rackets there. Due to its strategic location the castle was the subject of numerous competing interests. It was captured by the O'Flahertys around 1582 and was in use until it was supposedly captured and destroyed by Cromwell in 1652. The original entrance led to the first floor and was accessed via an external wooden staircase. Inside there was a hall taking up the whole of the first floor with an internal staircase in the SW wall leading up to the parapets. The ground floor was originally a basement with three vaulted chambers accessed from the first floor. Look out for the corbel of a watchtower which survives on the external wall and has a human face carved into it. The original Dún Formna has been restored a number of times throughout its history. It dates from the same period as the more famous Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór and probably contained some clocháns, of which no trace remains today. (Source: https://www.rothai-inisoirr.com/an-caislean/)

Wonderful view over the bays and lakes of Conemara

Just walk a little further and you will find a small, beautiful, secluded beach

Wikipedia (O'Brien's Castle (Inisheer) (Irish: Caisleán Uí Bhriain), 2022-11-04): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/O'Brien's_Castle_(Inisheer) https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dún_Formna “… A ringfort once stood on the site, named Dún Formna ... and dated to between the 5th century BC and 1st century AD. …” Wikipedia (List of national monuments in County Galway, 2024-08-09): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_national_monuments_in_County_Galway “41.07 … O'Brien's Castle (Great Fort, Furmina Castle) … Cashel”

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.

Diamond Hill, with its Irish name Binn Ghuaire, is a prominent peak in Connemara National Park in County Galway, Ireland. Although the mountain is not one of Ireland's highest peaks, at just 442 meters high, it still offers impressive views of the surrounding Connemara countryside and is particularly popular with walkers due to its well-maintained paths and relative ease of access. The walk to Diamond Hill is an experience that not only takes walkers through a variety of landscapes including heather, moorland, woodland and open spaces, but also breathtaking views of the sea, coast, neighboring Kylemore Abbey and the striking mountain range of the Twelve Bens offers. The well-marked trails and boardwalk system make the hike accessible to families with children and less experienced hikers. For those looking for a challenge, there are longer routes that cover multiple peaks, as well as the Diamond Hill Loop Trail, which is a more challenging option at 6.5 kilometers long with some steeper sections. Regardless of the route chosen, hikers should wear rain and windproof clothing and be prepared for changeable weather conditions, which can often occur in this region of Ireland. The best time to visit is in spring, when the gorse is in bloom and the landscape is bathed in a sea of yellow, or in summer, when the days are longer and the chance of good weather is higher. However, Diamond Hill offers unique views and experiences in every season. It should be noted that Diamond Hill is located in a protected area. Visitors should therefore adhere to local regulations, respect flora and fauna and not litter. Entry to Connemara National Park and parking are free, and the hike to Diamond Hill is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Irish countryside while practicing a respectful approach to nature.