Book on our site
Up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From303US$ /night
Check-in
04Mar2026Select date
Check-out
05Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Ballyconneely, Clifden, Ireland
-
Close to Mannin Bay Blueway Beach
Great
8.9
/10
4.7
4.6
/5

Location

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa is located on the Slyne Head Peninsula, surrounded by the Twelve Bens mountains and the coastline of Mannin Bay. The hotel enjoys direct access to the sandy beaches and is part of the Connemara Blueway, a popular destination for sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Nearby attractions include the village of Ballyconneely, just 1 km away, and the bustling town of Clifden, 10 km from the hotel.

Rooms and Accommodation

The hotel offers a variety of luxurious rooms, suites, and self-catering cottages to suit different preferences. Accommodation choices include king double rooms, spacious suites with sea views, and self-catering houses equipped with full kitchens. Many rooms feature unique designs inspired by local surroundings, enhancing the Connemara experience.

Wellness and Spa

Dedicated to rejuvenation, Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa includes an organic Seaweed Spa that harnesses the healing powers of Atlantic seaweed. Outdoor spa facilities offer beachside saunas, seaweed baths, and hot tub spas, providing guests with refreshing wellness experiences. The spa specializes in therapeutic treatments designed to promote relaxation and wellness.

Dining

The Sands Bar & Restaurant showcases authentic local cuisine under the hotel's 'Connemara on a Plate' philosophy, which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby producers. Diners can enjoy varieties of dishes created by Chef Sinéad Quinn, offering fish from local waters and mountain-reared lamb. A food truck, Cois Trá, provides casual beachside dining options, including fish and chips.

Activities and Adventure

The hotel's location offers easy access to various outdoor adventures, including surfing, kayaking, coasteering, and hiking in the scenic Connemara region. Guests can also explore the renowned Connemara Championship Golf Links situated just 5 km away. With options ranging from relaxing beach walks to adrenaline-pumping water sports, there is something for everyone at Connemara Sands.

Highlights

Location: Special Area of Conservation with breathtaking coastline

Rooms: Self-catering houses just 50 metres from the main hotel

Wellness: Voya Organic seaweed baths & treatments

Dining: Seasonal menus with fresh, local ingredients

Activities: Surfing lessons with experienced instructors

“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.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
View all

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
Luxury Double Room Ocean Mountain Views
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Duplex Apartment
2 persons
650 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Two-Bedroom Suite
2 persons
595 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Two-Bedroom House
2 persons
810 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

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

  • 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
Show more

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
Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Restaurant photo
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
Nearby
Derrygimlagh Bog
Alcock and Brown Landing Site
100 ft
Restaurants
Keogh's Pub
2500 ft
R341 Ballyconneely
Explore Clifden
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
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 Airport (NNR)96 min  ·  39.4 mi
Ireland West Knock Airport (NOC)208 min  ·  86.0 mi
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
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:
32
Former name
connemara sands beach hotel & spa

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 289 verified reviews
8.9/10
Great
91%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.1/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Comfortable apartment
Friendly staff
Great breakfast
Relaxing hotel
Cons
Noisy bedroom
Dismissive owner
Heavy duvet
Guest reviews
based on 587 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
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.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
04Mar2026Select date
Check-out
05Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room