GETWAY

Ireland’s stunning Connemara National Park has it all, says Janette Sykes

Previous page The Emerald Isle truly lives up to its name in Connemara

Long-time caravanner Janette Sykes is a regular PC contributor

THE HANDSOME TOWN of Clifden, also widely known as the Capital of Connemara, nestling between the majestic Twelve Bens mountains and the wild Atlantic Ocean, is steeped in fascinating history.

Back in 1907, inventor Guglielmo Marconi sent the first transatlantic radio messages from his base near Clifden, to Nova Scotia, Canada, while in 1919, British aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown made the first transatlantic flight, leaving Newfoundland and landing south of the town.

Both feats were achieved at Derrigimlagh blanket bog, now one of Europe’s most prized wetlands and a place of pilgrimage for visitors paying homage to the pioneers’ impressive achievements.

A signposted, looped 5km walk, with seven stopping points and interpretation panels, tells the fascinating story along the trail of former landmarks, such as Marconi’s Condenser House and the cairn marking the landing-place of Alcock and Brown.

A relaxing stroll

Clifden itself is a stylish and bustling town, developed in 1812 by local landowner John D’Arcy, allegedly to bring some law and order to anarchic Connemara.

Today its wide streets and attractive buildings host an excellent range of shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants, and it’s a very civilised place to take a relaxing stroll or enjoy a leisurely meal or drink.

We were staying (pre-lockdown) a short drive away, at the beautifully kept Clifden Campsite and Caravan Park, Shanaheever, off the main N59. We paid several visits to the town for sightseeing and shopping.