Galway and Connemara by Campervan

Quick summary: Galway is a natural campervan base on the west coast, around 210 km from Dublin and at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. The city is known for music, pubs and its Latin Quarter, best explored on foot. West of the city, Connemara opens up into lakes, bogland, mountains and white sand beaches, with Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park among the highlights. Roads in Connemara are quiet but often narrow and winding in a campervan or motorhome.

At a glance
From Dublin	Around 210 km, about 2.5 hours by motorway
Galway city	Latin Quarter, pubs, music
Connemara	Lakes, mountains, beaches
Highlights	Kylemore Abbey, Connemara National Park
Roads	Quiet but narrow west of Galway
Tours	Galway tours, Wild Atlantic Way

Compare campervan and motorhome rental in Galway

Galway is also a campervan hire location, so a one-way trip from Dublin to the west is worth comparing.

What should you do in Galway?

Wander the Latin Quarter and Shop Street, listen to traditional music in the pubs, and walk the Salthill promenade. Park on the edge of the center rather than driving into it.

Where should you go in Connemara?

Stop	Why go
Kylemore Abbey	Abbey and Victorian walled garden by a lake
Connemara National Park	Hikes including Diamond Hill
Clifden	Small town and the Sky Road loop
Roundstone	Harbor village with nearby beaches
Killary	Long fjord-like inlet near Leenane

Which Connemara roads are best avoided in an RV?

The Sky Road loop near Clifden and some coastal byroads are very narrow with few places to pass. Larger motorhomes are better on the main N59. See driving in Ireland.

Can you visit the Aran Islands?

Yes, by ferry from Rossaveal or Doolin, leaving the campervan at the port. Inishmore is the largest island and easy to explore by bike.

How does Galway link to the Cliffs of Moher?

The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher are around 1.5 hours south. See the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.

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Frequently Asked Questions