Connemara or Aran Islands
 

Would like some input...if we could only do one, should we spend the day exploring the Aran Islands or Connemara region? We are hoping to do both, but time may dictate otherwise. thanks.

What time of year are you going? If it's outside late April-late September, I'd just plan to stay in Connemara, because the ferries are sometimes cancelled because of the weather.<BR><BR>But both are great choices, so you can't really go wrong.

I'd vote for Connemara. The scenery and variety of sights far exceeds the rock-laden landscape of Aran Islands.

clifden is a lovely little town in connemara. You can sit on the hillside and watch the fishing boats come and go or watch a lovely sunset where the sea turns silver just before the sun drops below the horizon. if you like to hike you are near the Bens.

Chip,<BR><BR>Both destinations have so much to offer, but given your limitations regarding time, I'd opt for Connemara.<BR><BR>A common mistake concerning a visit to the Aran Islands is to limit your stay to a single day. The Aran Islands are at their best when the day-trippers have departed. On Inishmore, for example, the stone age fort, Dun Aengus, can be overrun with tourists, thus detracting from its impact. But should you visit early or late in the day, Dun Aengus is at its best, as you contemplate its history, its isolation overlooking the wild Atlantic. <BR><BR>As for Connemara, get your hands on a good Irish travel guide and make a plan. With only but a day, you'll want to choose some attractions that you regard as &quot;must sees&quot;. Kylemore Abbey (very crowded) and Connemara National Park (not nearly so) are both appealing (the former mostly for its photo-op potential; the latter for an opportunity to hike in some rugged and remote country). In addition, make a point to drive the R335, from Leenane to Louisburgh, as this is very attractive countryside.<BR><BR>Best of luck.<BR>

David:<BR><BR>Ah yes, the R335. Most people take the N59 which is quite nice, but the back back road is even better. Doo Lough Pass was unbelievably tranquill and I saw very few others on the drive. Wonderful area.<BR><BR>Bill

Bill,<BR><BR>Thanks for taking note of one of Irelands's most rewarding and wonderfully undeveloped roads. The drive along the R335 is well worth a special trip; and how appropriate it is to take this route north to Ireland's most spiritual of mountains, Croagh Patrick. <BR><BR>Best of luck.