Camping in Clifden, Ireland

Camping in Clifden, Ireland
Photo Credit Donegal, Ireland. image by trilbyfox from Fotolia.com

For those seeking a more traditional Irish experience, tent or caravan camping in the town of Clifden in the Connemara region of Ireland can provide an introduction to the Irish folklore that abounds here. This area is located on the seashore West of Ireland, and campers can enjoy all sorts of water activities, including salmon fishing.

Connemara and Clifton

Connemara is a rugged mountain region in west Ireland, located off of the Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic mountainous peaks and cliffs are offset by sandy beaches and bogs. The rich Irish heritage has been preserved in the area, and visitors will be fascinated by the traditional music and linguistics kept intact here.The town of Clifden is considered the "Capital of Connemara", and was founded in 1812 by John D'Arcy. Some of the traditional buildings still stand, such as the Catholic church built in 1830 that sits on the site of a monastic stone hut called a clochán, which is where the town gets its name.

Beachside Eco-Park

Acton's Beachside Caravan and Camping Eco-Park is located on a private beach on a certified organic farm. The surrounding ecosystem is known as a "machair," which is Gaelic for a low-lying fertile plain. These plots of nature can provide campers with a more traditional camping experience. Here campers can explore the tidal island of Omey, fish, scuba dive or go drift dive in Streamstown Bay.

Valley Camping

Just a 15 minute walk from Clifden is Shanaheveer Campsite and Caravan Park. Located in the foothills of Twelve Ben Mountains, campers can enjoy activities such as mountain walking, horseback riding and even golf. This site has 42 pitches, and allows tent, caravan and motor home camping. Available are a harbor tour as well as an Activity Centre.

Beach Camping

Open Easter to September 30, the Renvyle Beach Caravan and Camping Park provides 36 pitches on 2.5 hectares on the Renvyle Peninsula. Just 30 kilometers away from Clifden, campers here have direct access to the beach and can enjoy water activities like snorkeling. There are tent pitches and even mobile homes for hire, and a campers kitchen on site. Also available are toilets and showers, a shop, a laundry and even bikes for rent.

Area Activities

In 1810, Clifden founder John D'arcy constructed the Clifden Castle, and the ruins that overlook the Clifden Bay are still available for visitors to explore on foot. The Connemara National Park also provides guided tours, and there's also the ecological Bog Road Tour. Other walking tours include the Beach Road Walk and the Dog's Bay Stroll.

References

Article reviewed by Lynda Moultry Belcher Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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