Connemara National Park covers 2,957 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of blanket bogs, native heaths, grasslands and woodlands.
My first visit to Connemara was back in 2015. I remember specifically driving through Maams Cross and asking Kevin, “Where is the cross?” I expected to see a High Cross with intricately carved symbols, soaring 20 feet, marking a boundary of a significant territory. Alas, there was no cross.
The coastline of Connemara is known for hidden coves and rocky inlets
I loved the raw beauty, just as I did this time, when we drove up from Clare to visit with our friend Ronan Garvey. He apparently fell in love with this staggeringly beautiful rugged land several years ago and decided to build a house there. Connemara has such a unique combination of farmland and rocky geological features. Even while it was raining and misty, the magical was tugging at my heart. Look at me! Try to, anyway.
Marconi station in Clifden, 1907
One thing I did not know about until now was the role of Connemara in Guglielmo Marconi’s experiments. He was famous for inventing the wireless telegraph system, culminating in the first transatlantic wire signal in 1901. Marconi built his high-power transatlantic telegraph station near Clifden in 1907, which sent the first commercial wireless signals across the Atlantic to Canada. His contributions to wireless telegraphy led to being awarded the 1909 Noble Prize in Physics.
Connemara marble, found only in this region
Another thing I did not know about was Connemara Marble, found only in this region. The pure white rock, riddled with green streaks, is stunning. It is recognized and exported, adorning buildings worldwide.
And just where did I see this stone? On Connemara Golf Links, while playing golf with Ronan and his friend Mike O’Hara in late August. We caught it on a perfect dry day. And it made the entire visit extraordinary…just not enough time to try a hike in the Connemara National Park.
Ronan Garvey on 14th tee at Connemara Golf Links
If you are ever wondering WHERE is the Wild Atlantic Way? You will find it in Connemara. This jagged coastline certainly did stir my soul and yank me out of any kind of mundane mentality that permeates our earthly world, if only for a few short hours.
A long stretch of Lettergesh Beach with golden sand contrasts beautifully with the crystal-clear Atlantic waters and scenic mountains beyond.
