LOCATION . . . breath-taking scenery, mountain views and wave-washed beaches

There is something that will appeal to everyone in this spectacular part of Ireland

Anglers and artists, birdwatchers and botanists, hill-walkers, soft adventure seekers, triathlon, and archaeologists are among the many people who are drawn back again and again to the varied scenery of Connemara. Every month has its own extraordinary magic. As spring takes hold, flowering gorse splashes the landscape with a brilliant golden yellow. Throughout the summer months a succession of wild flowers produce a patchwork of vivid colours, while in September and October the countryside is washed in the subtle purples and gold of autumn. Against this backdrop of stunning natural beauty, visitors have a splendid choice of ways in which to spend their days here: see our ACTIVITIES and ATTRACTIONS pages

There are numerous drives within easy reach of the hotel. To the east lies ‘Joyce country’, so named for one of the ‘Galway Tribes’ families, who settled here in the 13th century and from where James Joyce’s father’s family moved to Cork many years ago.

On one side of this pleasant drive are the Partry mountains, and on the other the Maamturks (‘pass of the boars’). Recess is situated at the head of Lough Glendalough, one of the lakes that sweep around the base of the Twelve Bens in a great U-shaped chain. The centre link is Derryclare Lake, and in the glaciated valley separating the Twelve Bens and the Maamturks is the lovely island-studded Lough Inagh. Leenane is situated on the northern boundary of Connemara, at the head of the fiord-like Killary Harbour. There is much to interest the geologists in the abundant evidence of glaciation, moraines, gravel terraces and numerous minerals. Mweelrea (2688 ft) overlooks this splendour and offers climbers a spectacular view. It is worth noting that the Mayo side of Killary can boast the longest place name in Ireland: Cooneenashkirroogohifrinn (‘The Little Harbour Sliding to Hell’)!

We invite you to explore our website and to contact us for further details and bookings.

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