Joyce Country, Cornamona & Tourmakeady

Discover the natural beauty of Joyce Country

From Maam Cross the road directly northwards heads inland towards Corr na Móna (Cornamona) and the lush expanse of Joyce Country. It was in this area that the famous John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara story “The Quiet Man” was filmed. The friendly, welcoming Corr na Móna community are always anxious to share their lovely lakeside location on the shores of Lough Corrib, famous for fishing, boating and hillwalking. In a nearby lake island is Caisleán na Circe, one time castle home of the great pirate Queen of Connemara, Grace O’Malley, who lived in the time of Queen Elizabeth 1 of England. An Fháirche (Clonbur) nestles in colourful countryside between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, enjoying, as it were, the best of both worlds. Further west is An Lionán (Leenane) where John B. Keane’s great story “The Field” was filmed.

Aasleagh falls at Leenane — Aasleigh Falls

Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark

The Joyce Country Geopark in Galway and Mayo, Ireland, presents rocks spanning from Precambrian to Quaternary periods, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s geological history. These rocks, ranging in age from millions to hundreds of million years old, narrate Ireland’s journey through time. From its inception in a young ocean near the South Pole to becoming one landmass, part of a vast mountain range, and eventually moving north to tropical surroundings, the geopark showcases a rich geological tale. It reveals periods of volcanic activity and submersion beneath the sea, all shaped by recent glacier influences. Today’s landscape ties these geological events spanning millions of years and varying climates together.

Mountain Hiking and Glacial Views ⛰️

For those who want to get a true bird’s eye view of the geopark, a hike up Mount Gable is essential. Located just outside Clonbur, this relatively easy ascent provides staggering 360-degree views of both Lough Corrib and Lough Mask. The region is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading through the Maumturk Mountains and the rugged Partry Mountains, where you can witness the raw geological power that shaped this landscape during the last Ice Age.

Lough Nafooey and the Hidden Valley 🌊

If you prefer a more tranquil pace, a drive into the “Hidden Valley” of Lough Nafooey is a must. This stunning glacial lake is nestled between high mountains and is home to a unique sandy beach at its western end. The area is famous for its red-colored rocks, which are a signature of the volcanic history of the Joyce Country region. It is the perfect spot for a picnic, shore fishing, or simply photographing the ever-changing light on the water.

Historic Cong and the Pigeon Hole Cave 🕳️

No visit to the Geopark is complete without exploring the village of Cong, famously known as the filming location for “The Quiet Man.” Beyond its cinematic fame, Cong sits on a unique limestone bridge between two great lakes. You can explore the ruins of the 12th-century Cong Abbey or descend into the Pigeon Hole Cave, a limestone sinkhole where the waters of Lough Mask travel underground to reach Lough Corrib.

The Maam Valley and Finny Adventure 🐑

Experience the true heart of the rural West by following the road through the Maam Valley toward the village of Finny. This area is the epicenter of the Geopark’s educational efforts, offering insights into the local farming traditions and the ancient quartzites of the mountains. Stop by the local pubs in Cornamona or Clonbur in the evening to hear the Irish language being spoken and to enjoy traditional music sessions that celebrate the unique cultural heritage of this “Western Lakes” territory.

Connemara National Park

Situated on the Gaeltacht border, Connemara’s National Park is a 2000-hectare state owned conservation centre incorporating of mountains, bogs and grasslands with wonderful wildlife. Four of the mountains belong to the Twelve Bens range, including the highest, Benbaun (730 metres). At the centre of the park is the valley of Glanmore where the Polladirk River flows. Traces of ancient settlements can be seen in the park, including 4,000-year-old megalithic tombs and markings of former grazing areas. Facilities include an audio-visual show and a photographic display of Connemara scenery. There are picnic facilities, nature trails and a summer series of walks and illustrated talks.

Letterfrack, Co. Galway.
t:+353 (0)87 2919721 | +353 (0)76 100 2528 | 353 (0) 95 41054.
E-mail:[email protected]
w: https://www.connemaranationalpark.ie/