Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa, Clifden ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Nature photo

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Ballyconneely, Clifden, Ireland

Close to Mannin Bay Blueway Beach

Great

8.9

/10

4.6

Loved by Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa guests

Fine location
Comfortable rooms
Delicious breakfast
Helpful staff

"The location was unreal, and the best beaches on its doorstep."

Natasha from Ireland

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"We really enjoyed using the sauna and splashing straight into the cold sea."

Rachel from United Kingdom

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"Their homemade yoghurt contains honey from their own beehive by the beach."

Garry K

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4-star beachfront hotel in Connemara

Location

Located on the Slyne Head Peninsula, Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers direct access to the white sands of Mannin Bay. Situated within a Special Area of Conservation, guests can explore local wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The hotel is just 1 km from Ballyconneely Village and 10 km from Clifden, the vibrant capital of Connemara.

Rooms

The hotel offers various luxurious rooms, suites, and self-catering cottages with scenic views of Mannin Bay. Options include King Double Rooms, a Deluxe Suite, and pet-friendly self-catering accommodations. Each room features locally inspired decor and amenities like plasma TVs and Nespresso coffee makers.

Dining

The dining philosophy at Connemara Sands showcases local produce through its 'Connemara on a Plate' concept. Guests can enjoy meals in the Sands Bar & Restaurant, featuring seasonal menus crafted by Head Chef Sinéad Quinn. A fun food truck experience, Cois Trá, offers casual dining options just steps from the beach.

Wellness

Connemara Sands features an organic Seaweed Spa, utilizing locally sourced seaweed for a range of restorative treatments. Guests can unwind in outdoor spa facilities, including a beachside sauna and hot tub spa. The wellness offerings promote relaxation through hot and cold therapy, enhancing circulation.

Activities

The hotel is ideally located for outdoor adventures like kayaking, coasteering, and golfing at Connemara Championship Golf Links, just 5 km away. Guests can explore stunning trails and landscapes of the Twelve Bens mountains or enjoy surfing lessons nearby. This prime location makes it a gateway to various recreational opportunities on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Highlights

Location: Slyne Head Peninsula, Special Area of Conservation

Rooms: Luxurious accommodations with stunning views

Dining: 'Connemara on a Plate' dining philosophy

Wellness: Organic Seaweed Spa treatments

“This family-owned getaway, set against the raw beauty of Connemara, captures both the call of the wild Atlantic and the quiet of a luxury spa. With exclusive beach access, organic seaweed treatments, and dining that showcases local artisan foods, it's a place to indulge a love for both adventure and authentic Irish hospitality. From spacious suites to bespoke wellness programs, there's a rare level of care.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningFood Perfection

The lobster pie was delicious. The breakfast had baked ham, cheeses and homemade breads. The menu offered options for everyone.

Olivia from United Kingdom

Review on

Spa & LeisureSauna Views

The sea sauna view is breathtaking. An absolute bargain! There are also seaweed and ice baths available.

Noah from Ireland

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Room FeaturesSpacious Rooms

The rooms were excellent and really big. Apartments have access to the shore and stunning beach views.

Mia from Israel

Review on

BathroomFluffy heaven

Loads of hot water and fluffy towels. Voya products available. Spotlessly clean.

Ava from Canada

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Select your room type

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Deluxe Double Room

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Luxury Double Room Ocean Mountain Views

2 persons

435 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Duplex Apartment

2 persons

650 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Private beach
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Tennis court
Golf course
Yoga class
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Board games

Spa & Leisure

Beach access
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Open-air bath

Room features

Heating
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa, guests can indulge in delightful dining experiences anchored by local farmhouse fare and thoughtfully crafted vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Sands Bar beckons travelers with its welcoming ambiance, offering a unique taste of the region alongside serene relaxation.

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Restaurant photo

Sands Bar

Casual dining with local flavors

Ambiance

Family-friendly atmosphere with a cozy, inviting setting

Key Offerings

Local farmhouse cheeses and fresh seasonal vegetables highlight the menu, complemented by a complimentary Voya herbal tea served in the relaxation room. Brunch and dinner options are available, allowing for flexible dining times.

Reservation

Not needed

Open daily from 1 PM to 10 PM

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Location

Ballyconneely, Clifden, Ireland

Map view

Ballyconneely, Clifden, Ireland

City landmarks

Landmark

Lough Anaserd

2.9 mi

Landmark

Keogh's Bar and Restaurant - Ballyconneely

2500 ft

Landmark

Mannin Bay Blueway

3300 ft

Golf Course

Connemara Golf Links

3600 ft

Landmark

Aillebrack Green Coast Beach

3600 ft

Landmark

Bunowen Castle

1.8 mi

Beach

Mannin Bay Beach

1.4 mi

Landmark

Connemara Championship Links

1.2 mi

Landmark

Alcock and Brown Landing Site

2.4 mi

Landmark

Inis Ni Loop

1.7 mi

Landmark

Doon Hill Signal Tower

2.2 mi

Landmark

Alcock and Brown Memorial

2.5 mi

Landmark

Alcock and Brown Crash Site

2.4 mi

Landmark

Ballinaboy

2.7 mi

Landmark

Derrigimlagh Discovery Point

2.8 mi

Landmark

Alcock and Brown Atlantic Crossing

2.7 mi

Landmark

Connemara Smokehouse & Visitor Centre

2.8 mi

Castle

Clifden Castle

3.8 mi

Landmark

Holy Trinity

2.8 mi

Landmark

Connemara Championship Golf Links

3.0 mi

Landmark

Derrigimlagh

4.2 mi

Gallery

Lavelle Art Gallery

4.2 mi

Nearby

Derrygimlagh Bog

Alcock and Brown Landing Site

100 ft

Restaurants

Keogh's Pub

2500 ft

R341 Ballyconneely

Explore Clifden

Local Highlights

Alcock and Brown Landing Site

5 minutes' walk

Historic site commemorating the first transatlantic flight. Offers informative displays and scenic views.

Mannin Bay Blueway

15 minutes' walk

Stunning coastal route ideal for kayaking and cycling, providing breathtaking views of the bay and its wildlife.

Bunowen Castle

10 minutes' drive

Ruins of a 16th-century castle, featuring beautiful coastal scenery and a chance to learn about local history.

Doon Hill Signal Tower

10 minutes' drive

Remains of a 19th-century signal tower, with panoramic views of the Connemara landscape.

Connemara Golf Links

15 minutes' walk

Challenging golf course set against stunning coastal backdrops. Offers rental clubs and advice for all skill levels.

Kayaking at Mannin Bay

15 minutes' walk

Exciting kayaking sessions available for all levels at Mannin Bay; equipment rental is on-site.

Yoga Retreats

10 minutes' drive

Relaxing yoga sessions focusing on wellness are offered at nearby studios; bookings are recommended.

Keogh's Pub

10 minutes' walk

Traditional Irish pub known for hearty meals and local brews, featuring a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Ardagh Hotel Restaurant

10 minutes' drive

Upscale dining with stunning views; specializes in local seafood and farm-to-table dishes. Reservations recommended.

Clifden Station House

15 minutes' drive

Vibrant venue offering live music and events, featuring a welcoming atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Alcock and Brown Memorial

10 minutes' drive

A spot for reflection with occasional events; celebrates local history with art installations.

Getting around

City Centre

Clifden11 min · 4.3 mi

Airports

Connemara (NNR)96 min · 39.4 mi

Ireland West Knock (NOC)208 min · 86.0 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:00

Check-out

from 08:00-12:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of EUR 25 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

German

Number of rooms:

Former name

connemara sands beach hotel & spa

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers a modern and spotless experience, particularly appealing for groups, with spacious and comfortable rooms, including suites with sitting rooms. The hotel's location is advantageous, being close to Clifden and offering access to its own beach, though some may find it almost completely covered at high tide. Guests rave about the stunning local food, especially the full Irish breakfast, oysters, and lobster pie. While some guests have noted additional costs for amenities like the hot tub and sauna, many enjoy the outdoor seaweed baths and find it a good value.

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Review score

Based on 341 verified reviews

8.9/10

Great

91%

Recommend

Location

9.5/10

Cleanliness

9.3/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.6/10

Pros

Comfortable apartment

Friendly staff

Great breakfast

Relaxing hotel

Cons

Noisy bedroom

Dismissive owner

Heavy duvet

Taylor from United Kingdom

standard double room

1 night in November 2025

Reviewed: January 30, 2026

9/10

sea swim and scallops

amazing viewperfectly paired scallops

We booked the sauna and sea swim for the evening! the view from the sauna is amazing. the scallops were perfectly paired with pickled celeriac and celeriac puree. It created an explosion of flavour.

0 Helpful

Jonathan from United Kingdom

Couple

Standard Double Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 10, 2025

6/10

food qualitylimited spaceawkward door

The location is close to the beach food quality was also good and the wine list impressed me.

The room I booked was quite disappointing I had expected more space especially to open suitcases comfortably The door to the shower room opened awkwardly onto either the basin or the bed Also my view was mainly of the car park not the garden I had hoped for

0 Helpful

Johanne from Germany

Single

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 02, 2025

9.0/10

a peaceful stay

spacious roombeautiful decorationcomfortable bedmagnificent views

The room was spacious and beautifully decorated with relaxing colors. I found the bed very comfortable. I also enjoyed the sitting areas outside and the inviting fireplace inside. The beach and views were really magnificent.

i thought the breakfast service was slow.

Location

9/10

The hotel offered easy access to the beach. I appreciated the convenience for walks. Parking was simple. I also found the environment quiet.

Facilities

9/10

I appreciated the outdoor seaweed baths. There was a sauna, also a hot tub. The sauna overlooked the bay. These facilities allowed me to unwind and connect with the natural surroundings.

Rooms

9/10

My room was spotlessly clean with crisp bed linen. I was happy to have plenty of hot water. Fluffy towels added a nice touch. Voya products were included and were of high quality.

Dining

9/10

I really liked that the food was locally sourced. Breakfast had great options. Dinners were delicious and served piping hot. The restaurant offered fine local food.

0 Helpful

oliver from united kingdom

Family with children

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 23, 2025

9.0/10

excellent getaway!

friendly staffhelpful staffseaweed bathsdelicious food

i had such a great experience! the staff were really friendly and helpful, especially brian. i loved the seaweed baths and the sauna. the food in the restaurant was unbelievable!

the gym closes a bit early, that's it.

Location

10/10

The hotel is near a beautiful beach! it is perfect for walks and swims. nearby, i found a lovely village with local shops and restaurants a short drive away. The scenery is amazing.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast included fresh fruit, pastries, and hot dishes! the restaurant offers a varied menu with seafood and vegetarian options. dinner service starts at 6 pm. Reservations are recommended, though.

Facilities

8/10

The spa has several treatment rooms. I enjoyed a massage. there is a hot tub available for guest use. the hotel has complimentary parking. It is spacious.

0 Helpful

Ben from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 21, 2025

6/10

mixed experience

hidden feeamenity closures

i found the additional costs surprising. i wasn't informed about charges for the hot tub and sauna before my arrival. it was like a hidden fee. also the lack of transparency regarding amenity closures was disappointing, and it impacted my plans.

0 Helpful

Christopher from United States

Single

Two-Bedroom Suite

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 07, 2025

9/10

extensive beachexcellent food

The location features beautiful views and an extensive beach. I stayed three nights in a Two-Bedroom Suite with a double bedroom, twin bedroom, bathroom, and large sitting room. The food was excellent. I particularly enjoyed the oysters and the lobster pie for dinners. Breakfasts were also very good.

The fittings in the suite are a bit utilitarian. The toilet seat did not fit well.

0 Helpful

Stella from Italy

Couple

Two-Bedroom Suite

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: October 06, 2025

8.3/10

coastal escape

easy parkingspacious suiteocean viewaverage food

The hotel had easy parking. my room was a two-bedroom suite, i found it was spacious. i could see the ocean from my window. It was a lovely sight.

The restaurant didn't quite match the hotel's quality. The food was only average.

Service

9/10

the staff seemed very friendly. they were helpful with directions to local spots. i got quick assistance when i needed something in my room.

Facilities

8/10

i liked the outdoor sauna, it had nice views. the hotel features seaweed baths, i didn't try them. there was a hot tub, though i thought it was a bit small.

Dining

8/10

breakfast included some good options. they had fresh fruit and pastries. dinner was fine, it didn't stand out as much as i hoped.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa

Is there a lively bar on the premises and does it offer live music?

12 November 2024

Yes, there is a vibrant bar that serves food and drinks with live music often featured. Additionally, a local pub is situated just 0.5 km from the hotel.

What is the layout of the two-bedroom accommodation? Does it include a double bed?

15 January 2025

The two-bedroom house consists of one double room, one twin room, and a pull-out sofa located in the living area.

When is the optimal time for a beach getaway in Connemara?

20 December 2024

For the best beach experience, the months of May, June, July, August, and September are recommended. Guests should prepare for varying weather conditions, so bringing wet gear is advisable.

Is there a swimming pool available at the hotel or nearby?

7 March 2025

There is no swimming pool on site. However, a safe and private beach is located at the back of the hotel, ideal for swimming at various times throughout the year.

How far is the hotel's private beach from the main property? Can I walk there?

10 February 2025

The stunning Mannin beach is just a two-minute walk from the hotel reception, making it very accessible for all guests.

Are pets, particularly dogs, permitted in the two-bedroom house accommodations?

5 April 2025

Yes, dogs are allowed in the two-bedroom houses, but guests are kindly requested to notify the hotel in advance of their stay.

Is there a safe place to store bicycles during my stay?

28 September 2024

Bicycles can indeed be stored on the property, ensuring they are kept safe during guests' visits.

Can guests request a second bed in their room arrangement?

19 October 2024

Yes, guests have the option of either a king bed or two single beds, and preferences can be communicated upon booking.

Is breakfast part of the stay in the self-catering houses?

16 November 2024

Breakfast is not included in the rate for the Holiday Homes; however, cooked to order breakfast is provided with hotel B&B rates.

What activities can visitors expect in the vicinity of the hotel?

2 December 2024

Guests can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding, and hiking, thanks to the hotel's prime location along the Wild Atlantic Way.