Galway to Connemara (Clifden) by Coach or Minibus
Clifden is the main town of Connemara, about 80 km west of Galway on the N59. The road crosses lake, bog and mountain country with few towns, and coaches travel it more slowly than cars, so the drive is part of the day rather than a gap between stops.
Journey
- Galway to Connemara (Clifden)
- Approximately 1h 30m
- Serving Galway
About Connemara
- A wild region of bogland, mountains and Atlantic inlets west of the city, taking in Kylemore Abbey and the Twelve Bens.
- Nearest base: Galway
The N59 west
The N59 leaves Galway over the Quincentenary Bridge and heads north-west, bypassing Moycullen, to Oughterard near the shore of Lough Corrib. Beyond Oughterard it crosses open country to Maam Cross and Recess, with the Twelve Bens rising to the north, before dropping into Clifden. West of Oughterard the road narrows and winds, and a coach is slower than the map suggests, which is why an hour and a half is the planning figure.
Arriving in Clifden
Clifden has a coach park on the Galway Road, at the edge of town, with public toilets. From there it is a short walk to Main Street and Market Street for lunch and shops. The streets in the centre are narrow and busy in summer, so the coach park is the practical place to set down and collect.
Beyond Clifden
The Sky Road loop starts at the west end of town and climbs above Clifden Bay; ask the operator whether your vehicle suits it. North on the N59, Connemara National Park at Letterfrack and Kylemore Abbey are each within half an hour, which turns a Clifden visit into a full Connemara day. Oughterard is the natural comfort stop on the outward leg.
Weather and vehicles
Weather changes fast in the mountains, and rain on the bog road cuts visibility, so keep the timetable loose. A 49-seater handles the N59 itself, while a minibus or midi coach suits groups that want the smaller side roads to beaches and villages. Pack waterproofs even in summer.
How long should we allow for a Clifden day?
About three hours of driving in total, plus time in Clifden and any stops. A day of seven to eight hours suits most groups, especially if you add Kylemore or the national park.
Is there a different way back?
Yes. A common loop continues north past Kylemore to Leenaun on Killary Harbour, then returns on the R336 through Maam to Maam Cross and the N59. It adds time, so ask for it when you request the quote.
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