The stunning Irish swim spot with dolphins, seals & Irish pub from famous movie

COMPLETE your travels across the west of Ireland with this breathtaking swimming spot just a short drive outside of Connemara.

Along the Connemara Loop in Co. Galway is one of the only three fjords in Ireland.

3

Killary Harbour is home to the gorgeous 16km long fjord and it is surrounded by the towering height of Mweelrea, Connacht’s highest mountain.

The mountain rises up to 814 metres and is located near to the Maumturk Mountains and marvellous Twelve Bens.

The area is known to have some of Ireland’s most dramatic scenery and is the perfect spot for jumping into the water and going for a swim.

Due to the location’s sheltered nature the water’s are tranquil and calm.

And the calm blue water is even home to some Irish wildlife like dolphins, and seals.

Base yourself in the village of Leenane to be near to Killary Harbour.

There are many other tourist hotspots here such as the Connemara Sheep and Wool Centre.

And if sea swimming isn’t your thing, never fear because you can still appreciate the beauty of the fjord with the boat tours offered from the harbour.

The sightseeing tour prices vary on the length and include an informative commentary outlining the natural and social history of the Fjord.

As well as the ancient mythology surrounding these waters, visitors get to enjoy uninterrupted views of the “savage beauty” of North Connemara’s spectacular scenery,

The tours take you from the mouth of the Fjord to the gateway to the majestic Atlantic coast beyond, and offer unrivalled views of otherwise impossible to reach sections of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.

The ticket prices start at around €14 for children aged 10 and over and up to €26 for an adult, however there is usually family tickets available for larger groups.

And if sea swimming is a passion of yours then perhaps the Great Fjord Swim is an event you can’t miss.

It has been described as a swim like no other and a true West of Ireland experience.

SWIM COMP

Dive into crystal clear Atlantic waters for the final event of the Gaelforce Great Swim Trilogy.

There is a choice of three distances to take part in so its suitable for all levels.

The first is 750m where you are brought by boat to the start line and you must swim back to shore.

The second distance is two km, a step up from the previous but still suitable for those with a bit of experience.

And the final distance is 3.9km, recommended for the stronger swimmers, participants must reach the 1.9km mark in 45 minutes and complete the course within 1 hour and 45 minutes.

After the race everyone is welcome for hot food, with drinks and hot whiskey waiting for you at the finish line on the Killary shore.

And once you’ve completed the swim, head down to Gaynor’s Bar in Leenane where you’ll be met with soup and toasted sambos.

The famous bar was featured as the local pub in Jim Sheridan’s classic, ‘The Field’.

It is decorated with memorabilia from the iconic movie and exudes nostalgia and charm.

3