A West Ireland Riverside Town With Rainbow Shops And Epic Drives Feels Like Celtic Magic

If your idea of the perfect vacation involves picturesque villages surrounded by awe-inspiring natural scenery, it's time to plan a trip to Clifden, Ireland. The Emerald Island is full of charming places to visit— from world class cities like Dublin known for their nightlife, to natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher. But no visit to the lovely European country would be complete without a visit to some of its gorgeous small towns.

Clifden is located in County Galway on the Atlantic Coast of Ireland. It makes a wonderful stop if you're taking a road trip along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, which has some of the most incredible European scenery. The town is known for its colorful architecture, natural beauty, and having several of the country's most famous landmarks nearby. The town is situated on the Owenglin River, at the point where it tumbles into the Clifden Bay. It's the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and immersing yourself in authentic Irish culture.

The laid back atmosphere provides a nice contrast after spending time in a lively city like Dublin or Galway. Surrounded by rugged mountains and beautiful beaches, Clifden deserves a spot at the top of your Ireland itinerary.

Clifden was founded in 1812 by John D'Arcy. The D'Arcy family owned a massive estate nearby and were one of the most powerful families in the area. The town grew quickly in the 1800s and soon developed into a thriving community. The D'Arcy family was eventually forced to sell the town after the Great Famine.

In the 1960s Clifden became a hub for hippies and artistic types. Today, the bohemian vibe lives on through the colorful streets and art galleries. Clifden is a popular tourist destination, so there are plenty of charming shops to explore during your visit. If you're a fan of Irish music, make sure to spend some time enjoying Clifden's traditional atmospheric pubs. Pubs are a wonderful place to meet locals and have an authentic experience in Ireland. There are also plenty of hip restaurants where you can grab a tasty meal after a day of exploring.

Clifden is located just minutes away from Connemara National Park. The park encompasses nearly 5,000 acres of mountains, grassland, and bogs and is home to some of the region's most stunning scenery. For the most epic views, hike to the summit of Diamond Hill. Visiting the ruins of the Clifden Castle is another great way to spend an afternoon. The Gothic-style castle was constructed by the D'Arcy family in the early 1800s. The historical Kylmore Abbey is just 20 minutes from town. Make sure you carve out some time to take a scenic drive on Sky Road. The loop road begins and ends in Clifden and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast along the way.

Most travelers who reach Ireland by plane will fly into Dublin Airport. Dublin is Ireland's largest city and capital. From there, the drive to Clifden takes a little over three hours. Head west towards Galway, and then hop on the Wild Atlantic Way to enjoy the scenic route. Renting a car is your best bet if you want the freedom and flexibility to stop and explore along the way. Car rentals in Dublin cost around $30 per day, but you can also get there via public transportation. Take a train to Galway and then catch a bus the rest of the way to Clifden for around $50 one way.

When it comes to accommodations in Clifden, you've got options. Choose between guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, private rentals, or book a stay in a luxurious castle. Foyles Hotel has excellent ratings and a great location. There is an onsite bar and restaurant and room prices start around $140 per night — breakfast is included in the cost of your stay.

If you want to feel like royalty during your trip to Clifden, consider booking a stay at the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, which is located just outside of town. The beautiful ivy-covered castle is a 4-star hotel with elegant rooms decorated with antique furniture. There's a restaurant onsite as well as a piano bar. Rooms start at around $300 per night and breakfast is included.