(14) Connemara National Park

 Connemara National Park

Don’t miss a visit to Connemara National Park on the Sheep and Wool Trail   you will find rare breed cattle, Connemara Ponies and a flock of the rare breed Cladóir Sheep. The Cladóir Sheep Preservation Committee seeks to regenerate this rare heritage breed in conjunction with Connemara National Park.  They are a white face breed of sheep which were once common along the coastal area of Connemara but believed to descend from hill sheep. The name Cladóir means coastal dweller. They were kept mainly for their wool which was very fine and suitable for spinning and weaving.

Connemara National Park consists of 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands in County Galway. Some of the National Park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range.

Experience:

Head to the Park Visitor Centre and from there, head out and explore the mountainous range of Connemara. There are a number of walks that offer breathtaking views. Various talks and events take place here throughout the year.

Facilities: Visitor Centre, Café, Toilets, Playground, Picnic areas and education centre.

Other:  Free admission