Known as Trá an Dóilín, Coral Beach in Carraroe is an area of stunning natural beauty. It is an area just begging to be discovered, with small coves and bays around virtually every corner of the roads that wind their way along the coast. It has a coveted blue flag – only given to beaches and marinas with the very best water quality, lifesaving and disabled access facilities – and is of major conservation importance.
As its name suggests, the beach is famous for its very fine coral and it is an excellent area for snorkelling and diving. Patrolled by lifeguards during the holiday season, it has toilet facilities and dozens of little rock pools ripe for exploring. A little off the beaten track, it is usually less busy than some of the other beaches in the area.
As well as its beach, the village of Carraroe is famous for its traditional fishing boats, known as Galway Hookers. These are now largely used for racing and every August Carraroe hosts the Féile an Dóilíin, one of the biggest maritime festivals in Ireland.
Away from the coast, Connemara’s inland canvas is a heady mix of isolated valleys, bogs and lakes. The Maumturk Mountains and the quartzite peaks of the Twelve Bens mountain range are at its heart, offering countless cycling and hiking opportunities. Cut off from the rest of County Galway by Lough Corrib, it’s a richly rewarding region to explore.
