Even in such apparently wild and remote surroundings, it is soon obvious that an ancient and rich culture has left its mark on the area. Human occupation came early. Dolmens, prehistoric forts as spectaculor Dún Aengus on Aranmore, medieval abbeys, castles and towers dot the contryside with their nostalgic remains. A haunting and tragic history is still perceptible here and the people of Connemara are very close to their ancient customs and traditions and proud of their gaelic language which is largely used in part of the area.      

   The main town in the area is Galway, a dynamic and swinging city with a lovely, quaint city center, busy shops, and a great choice of restaurants, coffee shops and pubs offering all kinds of live music.
Deeper into Connemara, Roundstone has a charming little harbour and beautiful beaches, and hosts the traditional sailing boat races where the hookers, púcans and gloiteog spread their red and black sails. Further on, Clifden is a busy, colourful village offering the visitors all sorts of entertainment.
   
   Nature lovers will be particularly happy here. Connemara has a very intricate geography and complex geology. The coast is rocky and deeply indented with jagged headlands and deep inlets, and hundreds of islands, and here and there  the most beautiful quiet sandy beaches.  Inland, the Twelve Bens and the Maumturk hills rise steeply above deep valleys and wide stretches of bogland. A maze of streams, rivers and lakes reflect the changing skies and the shifting lights and the whole area teems with all kinds of wild life. 

   Out in the Atlantic, but only 40 mn out in a boat from Rossaveal, the Aran islands are a stronghold of Gaelic culture and offer breathtaking views and unique landscapes.