Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa
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Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa
Mannin Bay, Ballyconneely, Clifden H71 TY79 Ireland
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Dining (75)
Pool & Beach (69)
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Fully refundable before Fri, 27 Sept
Breakfast included
€245
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Avg. €354 /night, 9/20 - 9/21
€354
per night
€274
per night
€193
per night
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#1 of 1 hotels in BallyconneelyLocation
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A family-owned and operated boutique hotel perfectly positioned in the heart of Connemara and The Wild Atlantic Way. Cradled by the Twelve Bens mountain range, white sandy shores and gin blue waters of Mannin Bay there is no better place from which to relax, explore or become immersed in the vibrant local culture. Located in the Slyne Head Peninsula special area of conservation. The hotel is positioned on Mannin Bay, part of the Connemara Blueway and perfect for swimming and water activities. Luxurious hotel rooms & self-catering accommodation options with cooked to order breakfast included with all hotel B&B rates. We have amazing landscapes with pristine beaches and an abundance of natural wildlife. We have an indoor organic Seaweed Spa including seaweed baths and treatment rooms and we have also added an outdoor rugged retreat with baths, beach sauna, hot tub and cold plunge. Our food is consistently rated excellent and is noted for its provenance and freshness.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Sauna
Free breakfast
Beach
Bicycle rental
Babysitting
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Kid-friendly buffet
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Canoeing
Horseback riding
Snorkelling
Tennis court
Water sport equipment rentals
Bicycle tours
Evening entertainment
Patio
Walking tours
Taxi service
Banquet room
Spa
Body wrap
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hammam
Hand massage
Head massage
Massage
Neck massage
Open-air bath
Steam room
Baggage storage
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
24-hour check-in
Express check-in / check-out
Room features
Blackout curtains
Soundproof rooms
Private beach
Housekeeping
Coffee / tea maker
Flatscreen TV
Sofa bed
Bath / shower
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Separate living room
Sofa
Telephone
VIP room facilities
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Iron
Private bathrooms
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
On-demand films
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Bay View
Languages Spoken
English, French, German
Location
Mannin Bay, Ballyconneely, Clifden H71 TY79 Ireland
Getting there
Car recommended
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 50 out of 100
50
Shannon Airport
112.9 km•
See all flights
Car Hire
38 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
4.5
622 reviews
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Reviews summary
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Nestled in a picturesque location, Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa is celebrated by guests for its spotless, stylish interiors and scenic views. The hotel's rooms receive accolades for their spaciousness and comfort, though a few guests mention a need for more storage. Service at the hotel is frequently lauded for its warmth and efficiency.
While it's considered a good value by most, one reviewer found it slightly overpriced. The array of amenities, including a well-reviewed spa and easy beach access, add to the hotel's charm.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Stylish
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Top-notch
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622Reviews7Q+A100Room tips
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Detailed Reviews
We decided that when the Covid 19 Ban lifts that we could travel in Ireland on a staycation.. my husband mentioned the Connemara Sands Hotel just outside Clifden Co Galway ... So as couples and family we planned a weekend break !
From the moment we arrived the staff couldn’t do enough for us with total awareness of the Covid 19 protocol all in place and easy to follow .. all automatic hand gel dispensers at every turn and staff wearing masks serving breakfast .. we .. as guests, we felt very comfortable!
The welcome was wonderful , the food was excellent and the pint of Guinness very creamy .. the whole experience was 100%. We went for a swim in the sea as there is direct access from the Hotel to the beautiful beach
and the water was clear , safe and private !
Our rooms were lovely bright clean contemporary in style with a beach feel . We all had a lovely double room that had a king sized bed which was great
The usual coffee/ Tea but with a coffee pod machine , a great surprise!
(Hair dryer iron and board .. towels were lovely and fluffy) On the bedroom corridor there are a few spa treatment rooms so the lovely smell of essential oils wafting in the corridors added to out experience .. I didn’t get to have a seaweed bath this time
so that is planned for our next visit !!
Best food and breakfast and a great staff
Dean looked after us and was most obliging
We ate in the bar area and our waiter had a great cheeky wit and was a Real Paddy !!!
Would recommend here big time and it’s only an hour from Galway city to the Gateway to Connemara !!
From the moment we arrived the staff couldn’t do enough for us with total awareness of the Covid 19 protocol all in place and easy to follow .. all automatic hand gel dispensers at every turn and staff wearing masks serving breakfast .. we .. as guests, we felt very comfortable!
The welcome was wonderful , the food was excellent and the pint of Guinness very creamy .. the whole experience was 100%. We went for a swim in the sea as there is direct access from the Hotel to the beautiful beach
and the water was clear , safe and private !
Our rooms were lovely bright clean contemporary in style with a beach feel . We all had a lovely double room that had a king sized bed which was great
The usual coffee/ Tea but with a coffee pod machine , a great surprise!
(Hair dryer iron and board .. towels were lovely and fluffy) On the bedroom corridor there are a few spa treatment rooms so the lovely smell of essential oils wafting in the corridors added to out experience .. I didn’t get to have a seaweed bath this time
so that is planned for our next visit !!
Best food and breakfast and a great staff
Dean looked after us and was most obliging
We ate in the bar area and our waiter had a great cheeky wit and was a Real Paddy !!!
Would recommend here big time and it’s only an hour from Galway city to the Gateway to Connemara !!
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Date of stay: July 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed here for one night on our Wild Atlantic Way trip. We were absolutely blown away by this hotel! The staff were so friendly and welcoming. The rooms and reception area are decorated so tastefully with beach vibes running through. We were so impressed with our room which also had Netflix on the TV which was a welcome surprise. We spent the afternoon in nearby clifden and also did a pony trek along the beach in Ballyconneely. Once we checked in, we immediately went down to the private beach behind the hotel which was absolutely breath-taking. The clearest water we had ever seen! After that, we enjoyed some pizzas and drinks sitting out in the sun at the front of the hotel. The breakfast the following morning was superb. So much more than a standard hotel breakfast! We enjoyed avocado and poached eggs on sourdough, pancakes, great coffees! The staff in the restaurant were so obliging and we felt totally safe knowing that all covid health and safety guidelines were being followed. There was an open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant where we could see the chefs preparing our delicious food and a continental buffet covered behind glass on the other side. The only thing we’d change with this stay, is that we would have stayed for longer! This hotel doesn’t get enough credit! Absolutely fabulous- well done Connemara Sands, we’ll be back!
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Date of stay: August 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
Lovely place for our Connemara holiday. We stayed in one of the self-catering houses onsite, which was very comfortable with a fully equipped kitchen and good wifi. The staff are all really nice here. They manage to create a really laid-back, very friendly vibe while also running a really professional show. We felt really well looked after. The food in the restaurant/bar was a very high standard and really reasonably priced.
The location is superb - a short walk to lovely Mannin Bay. Dog's Bay and Roundstone are a short drive in one direction, Clifden a short drive the other. It's an easy drive from here to any part of Connemara really. If you don't fancy driving, they even have their own little beach onsite!
Overall, a great place to base yourself for a trip to Connemara.
The location is superb - a short walk to lovely Mannin Bay. Dog's Bay and Roundstone are a short drive in one direction, Clifden a short drive the other. It's an easy drive from here to any part of Connemara really. If you don't fancy driving, they even have their own little beach onsite!
Overall, a great place to base yourself for a trip to Connemara.
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Date of stay: October 2020
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Myself & my husband booked 2 nights last week but enjoyed it so much we decided to stay a third night. It is just the most wonderful location with access to magnificent private beach ,a small family-run hotel with excellent food & knowledgeable local staff who were very friendly & helpful. The food was amazing, with some simple little added extras to our orders that made us feel appreciated as clients. Looked forward to our meal in the atmospheric Bar each evening trying out a new dish. I am not a fan of the big fry-up but thankfully was spoilt for choice with a varied breakfast menu cooked to order with wonderful presentation (porridge fabulous! ). Owners very much hands-on all of the time cooking, serving food & drinks, cleaning down tables etc adding that very personal touch. Finally was so impressed with Connemara Ritual treatment in Spa, a totally relaxing experience due to the therapist & ambience in the small but superb treatment area. Our double bedroom was small but with a gorgeous bathroom and every other aspect of this marvellous little hidden gem made up for that. If you want to switch off in a remote location by the sea & enjoy glorious food this is the place to go. Felt very safe here. We cannot wait to return.
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Date of stay: August 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We as a family have been coming here for a few years, originally visiting for lunch stop and then finally the last couple years spending a week here with large family.
What can we say other than we absolutely love everything about the place. truly stunning location just off a crystal clear water and white sandy beach which is incredible for young kids to explore. Dean the owner is a fantastic cook who spends each morning in kitchen making the breakfasts (Which are to die for) . The rooms are in superb condition, we get the suites which is perfect with a child and everything is spotless. Marian and Martin at front desk look after everyone, all staff are super friendly and it really is an ideal hub to base your stay in Connemara with Clifden and Roundstone just a short drive away. Bring your bike if you like a spin, they have a safe place to lock your gear. It never feels busy as people are mostly out and about for the day. We've only been coming a couple years but with the service you receive you feel like you've been going there for 20 years. It's a superb spot, run by a great team and providing everything you can ask for. We will be coming back for a long time.
What can we say other than we absolutely love everything about the place. truly stunning location just off a crystal clear water and white sandy beach which is incredible for young kids to explore. Dean the owner is a fantastic cook who spends each morning in kitchen making the breakfasts (Which are to die for) . The rooms are in superb condition, we get the suites which is perfect with a child and everything is spotless. Marian and Martin at front desk look after everyone, all staff are super friendly and it really is an ideal hub to base your stay in Connemara with Clifden and Roundstone just a short drive away. Bring your bike if you like a spin, they have a safe place to lock your gear. It never feels busy as people are mostly out and about for the day. We've only been coming a couple years but with the service you receive you feel like you've been going there for 20 years. It's a superb spot, run by a great team and providing everything you can ask for. We will be coming back for a long time.
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Date of stay: July 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â Suites on ground floor have a lovely shared balcony with other families
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed in early September , after a 5 hour drive ,was told at reception bar was closed I was really disappointed, I was looking forward to a nice pint. One was delivered to my room.
Now I really don't like giving negative reviews.
But our room was grim.
No TV in bedroom, TV in sitting room, two channels,no wifi at time of our visit.
Storage heaters which pumped out heat even when turned off.
Furniture was worn.
An hour and a half to wait for a bath, shower was poor.
The room wasn't a bit luxurious, we work long hours, my wife is a Frontline hero, and we like to chill for a few hours in the afternoon after being out for a bit, and go for two pints at 5pm,we've simple needs.
We just couldn't do it in this hotel.
Staff were lovely, we ate in the bar, I noticed plenty of residents refused drinks, this was such a pity, the restaurant was closed and everyone was fed in the bar, this was our third hotel visit ( Armada hotel Spanish point, The Europe Killarney)since restrictions have been lifted, all other hotels have a bar open for residents.
I can't understand why the restaurant was not open and bar open for residents. I could understand if no restaurant existed and there was no space
It's ridiculous for this hotel,not look after residents,especially at €170 per night.
Food and wine was good,and service at meal time was superb,we were seated by the main door in bar, so not the most relaxing.
We were really looking forward to our stay, but overall disappointed by the room, the rooms need upgrading.
Great staff and good food and a beautiful part of Ireland.
Now I really don't like giving negative reviews.
But our room was grim.
No TV in bedroom, TV in sitting room, two channels,no wifi at time of our visit.
Storage heaters which pumped out heat even when turned off.
Furniture was worn.
An hour and a half to wait for a bath, shower was poor.
The room wasn't a bit luxurious, we work long hours, my wife is a Frontline hero, and we like to chill for a few hours in the afternoon after being out for a bit, and go for two pints at 5pm,we've simple needs.
We just couldn't do it in this hotel.
Staff were lovely, we ate in the bar, I noticed plenty of residents refused drinks, this was such a pity, the restaurant was closed and everyone was fed in the bar, this was our third hotel visit ( Armada hotel Spanish point, The Europe Killarney)since restrictions have been lifted, all other hotels have a bar open for residents.
I can't understand why the restaurant was not open and bar open for residents. I could understand if no restaurant existed and there was no space
It's ridiculous for this hotel,not look after residents,especially at €170 per night.
Food and wine was good,and service at meal time was superb,we were seated by the main door in bar, so not the most relaxing.
We were really looking forward to our stay, but overall disappointed by the room, the rooms need upgrading.
Great staff and good food and a beautiful part of Ireland.
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Highly recommended! Great service, delicious food, friendly staff, what a location!! Right on the beach, the sea is the most beautiful shade of blue.
Accommodation was very spacious and clean. Beds were super comfy.
Breakfast was delicious, with a great selection of pastries, cereals and an a la carte menu. The poached eggs and avocado on toast is one to try!
I will definitely be back this summer with the family so we can swim in the sea and do some of the stand up paddle boarding or kayaking activities on offer there. My kids would love it!
Accommodation was very spacious and clean. Beds were super comfy.
Breakfast was delicious, with a great selection of pastries, cereals and an a la carte menu. The poached eggs and avocado on toast is one to try!
I will definitely be back this summer with the family so we can swim in the sea and do some of the stand up paddle boarding or kayaking activities on offer there. My kids would love it!
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Date of stay: March 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
One of greatest experiences we have ever had. The service was exceptional from start to finish. Dean & his wife Kathy couldn’t have been more welcoming the food was fresh and staff were extremely polite. An outstanding experience and the little beach and sauna pod is just beautiful. Thanks to everyone
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Visited this charming hotel again this year as a family breakaway. It’s location is picturesque but one of the best things about the hotel is the staff who are all helpful and friendly with great attention to detail. Marion on reception is such a good representative and an excellent first impression for the hotel. Martin, who seems to be everywhere, is friendly yet professional. The proprietors are personable - clearly very dedicated and are intrinsic to the running of this lovely hotel. During our stay we found the food was delicious - well presented and very tasty. Will hopefully be back to the Connemara Sands again
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Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This hotel is so clean- the rooms and common areas are spotless. This is the model and I would encourage hoteliers to visit and take note! The only thing missing for me was a hand held shower attachment. The Voya toiletries are lovely. The location is so special with it’s own beach access to the stunning Manin Bay. I keep returning every year to find it gets better and better. Breakfast is very nice and there is also a great evening menu.
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Date of stay: July 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dogs are welcome in the self catering houses at the hotel.
Dogs are not allowed in the hotel bedroom suites.
Hi Aoife,
We provide all linen including towels but not beach towels.
We provide a starter set of tea and coffee for your arrival only. Please bring your own toiletries for self - catering.
Thanks and look forward to seeing you soon.
Hey Jordan,
Connemara National Park is pretty huge really..Within a half an hour as the others have said.
Enjoy.
We stayed during February, and it was too cold to swim. I suspect direct communication with the hotel would enable you to have your question answered.
hi,
The trip to Clifden is approx 10km about 10 minutes drive from the hotel, there are taxis available locally.
hope this helps
regards
"Very easy to locate on the road from Clifden to Ballyconneely. Excellent EV charging facilities and Accessibility ."Read full review
"It can be quite a long drive depending on where you are travelling from, so worth staying more than a couple of nights. "Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
€194 - €283 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
IrelandWestern IrelandProvince of ConnachtCounty GalwayClifdenBallyconneely
NUMBER OF ROOMS
21
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingCONNEMARA SANDS BEACH HOTEL & SPA | UPDATED 2024 Reviews & Price Comparison (Ballyconneely, County Galway) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa
Which popular attractions are close to Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Nearby attractions include O`Dalaigh Jewellers (6.7 km), The Point Equestrian Centre and Pony Trekking (5.7 km), and Sky Road (7.0 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Top room amenities include a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Conveniently located restaurants include Ardagh Restaurant, Lowry's Bar, and Marconi's.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Yes, guests have access to a sauna during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, and German.
Are there any historical sites close to Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Marconi Station (0.02 km) and Alcock and Brown Landing Site (0.02 km).
Does Connemara Sands Beach Hotel & Spa have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.