Connemara National Park (Irish: Páirc Naisiúnta Chonamara) is one of six national parks in Ireland that are managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. It is located in the west of Ireland within County Galway.
Western blanket bog and heathland are the most common vegetation of Connemara National Park. The boglands are situated in the wet low lying environments whereas the blanket bog exists within the drier mountain atmosphere. Purple moorgrass is the most bountiful plant, creating colorful landscapes throughout the country side. Carnivorous plants play an important role in the park's ecosystem, the most common being sundew and butterworts trap. Bogs hold very little nutrients so many plants obtain their energy from the digestion of insects. Other common plants include lousewort, bog cotton, milkwort, bog asphodel, orchids and bog myrtle, with a variety of lichens and mosses.
Getting there
The best starting point for visiting the national park is Letterfrack. The visitor centre is located here and there are plenty of hiking options starting there. The national park is located in the western part of Ireland. Most international flights go to Dublin. From here, it is a 4-hour drive. You can catch public transport to Letterfrack if you do not have the option to rent a car.
When to visit
The most popular season is summer. Autumn and winter can be rainy and cold. On the upside you will get most of the national park to yourself in the colder months.
Map of Connemara National Park
Image gallery of Connemara National Park
Sights in Connemara National Park
Some national parks contain more than just natural wonders. This list shows you some of the sights that are located in the national park. This includes museums, cathedrals, bridges, dams and much more.
Visitor/Information centres in Connemara National Park
Most national parks have an associated visitor centre to help visitors. They are usually open most of the year but some close in the off-season. You will often be able to find information on all the activities in the national park. A visit to the visitor centre is often recommended before venturing into the park.
Wildlife in Connemara National Park
These sections shows you some of the characteristic wildlife to the national park.
Bears in Connemara National Park
No bears in the park
This national park has no bears and you do not need to take precautions.
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