About
Clifden is a market town on the west coast of Ireland, in County Galway, known locally as the "Capital of Connemara." It lies between the Twelve Bens mountains and the rugged Atlantic coast, so the landscape is close at hand from almost every street.
What a visit is like
Clifden works well as a base rather than a destination you need to fill with sights. Many visitors stay here to explore the wider region of Connemara, with its open bog, mountain roads and inlets along the shore. Days tend to be shaped by the weather and by the scenery, which changes quickly across the hills and the sea.
Around the town
- Traditional music: the town is known for its traditional music sessions, which make a natural end to an evening.
- Seafood: the local restaurants are a good reason to stay in for dinner, with fresh fish and shellfish from the Atlantic.
- Scenic drives: routes through bog and mountain country start from the town and give wide views in every direction.
- Coast and mountains: walks and stops along the shoreline and in the Twelve Bens are close by.
Clifden suits travellers who want a lively, practical town with good food and music, set in one of the wilder parts of Ireland. Plan on a few days, and leave room for slow drives and unplanned stops.
