Connemara Hop on Hop off Bus

“I can’t believe this didn’t exist until now!” If I had a dollar for every time I heard this line on the Connemara Hop on Hop off Bus, I would be rich! This much needed service allows visitors to experience the beauty of 6 truly unique sights within the Connemara countryside. These sights include Clifden, Cleggan Pier, Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey, Killary Fjord Cruise and Leenaun.

I purchased my two day ticket and decided it best to base myself in the lively town of Clifden in order to make the most of my trip. The Hop on Hop off Bus is absolutely brilliant for someone like me who would rather enjoy breath-taking scenery and avoid the cost and hassle of driving! Clifden is a town with a truly intimate feel and a lovely collection of pubs, restaurants and unique shops. After reviewing the six stops along the spectacular Connemara route I decided that because I had the luxury of two days to sightsee, I could take my time and tick off three sights each day.

For my first day I caught the Hop on Hop off bus from Clifden to arrive at the Killary Fjord Cruise and the picturesque township of Leenaun. The scenic bus ride to the pier gave me an amazing first taste of the scenery to come. Rolling green hills, rugged mountains and a patchwork of windswept bogs ensured a spectacular morning journey. Taking to the water for views of Killary Fjord provided amazing panoramic views of the silvery sea, hills dotted with waterfalls and mussel farms. After the stunning 90 minute cruise I hopped on the bus to the charming township of Leenaun and enjoyed fresh seafood with one of the best lunch views I’ve ever experienced.

Live traditional music and delicious food made up my second night in Clifden before I eagerly boarded the Hop on Hop off bus for day two! The first stop on my list was Cleggan Pier in order to catch the ferry to Inishboffin Island. On the spectacular journey across I was lucky enough to spot dolphins in the sparkling blue water. The Westquarter loop walk on Inishboffin offered views of powerful blow holes, rugged sea stacks and the iconic sea arch.

My next stop on the Hop on Hop off bus was the highly anticipated Connemara National Park. The journey unfolded views of a patchwork of lakes, winding paths and towering moody mountains. I hiked along various trails and was rewarded each time with gorgeous lakes and isolated bogs. You’d be lying if you weren’t enjoying a beautiful view in Connemara National Park!

The final stop for my day was the legendary Kylemore Abbey. The majestic architecture of the 1800s Abbey, the organised oasis of the Victorian Walled Garden and the haunting beauty of the neo-Gothic Church made for a truly memorable stop. Despite the popularity of each stop along the Hop on Hop off Connemara route, a unique atmosphere of tranquillity and beauty surrounded every destination. Finally a seaside, country and rural tour that allows you to design your itinerary your own way! The Connemara Hop on Hop off bus is an unforgettable experience!