Visiting the west of Ireland in autumn is an experience that’s both magical and peaceful, with the landscape transforming in ways that are breathtaking. Around Galway and Clare, the cooler air and changing colours of the season make the region even more atmospheric.
Starting in Galway, you’ll find that the city itself comes alive with a different energy in autumn. The summer crowds have thinned, and it feels more like the true, intimate Galway. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Latin Quarter, where brightly painted shopfronts and lively pubs beckon. Don’t miss out on popping into a traditional Irish pub like Tig Coili or The Crane Bar, where local musicians gather for impromptu trad sessions that fill the cosy spaces with music and warmth. The Galway Market is also worth a visit, especially on a brisk Saturday morning, where you can sample fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and perhaps a hot coffee as you wander through the stalls.
Outside of the city, the landscape is where autumn really begins to shine. The drive out into Connemara is unforgettable, with the rugged hills and valleys of the region turning rich shades of gold, red, and brown. The mountains in the distance seem to soften in the mist, and the winding roads lead you past lakes that mirror the autumn sky. The Twelve Bens mountains look especially stunning this time of year, making it perfect for hiking. If you’re up for it, a trek up Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park offers panoramic views that stretch over the hills to the Atlantic, with bursts of colour from the heather and autumn leaves below.
Head south towards Clare, and the Burren awaits you with its stark, limestone landscape. Autumn adds a certain mystique to the Burren—its bare rock seems even more dramatic against the backdrop of a sky that can change from bright blue to stormy grey in a heartbeat. You might still find some late-season wildflowers among the cracks in the stone, adding pops of color against the grey. Take a trip to Caherconnell Fort to delve into ancient history, or explore Aillwee Cave.
Of course, no trip to Clare would be complete without visiting the Cliffs of Moher. In autumn, the cliffs are quieter, and the cool, crisp air makes the walk along the edge invigorating. The cliffs, standing against the wild Atlantic, look especially dramatic as the waves crash below, and the sunset paints the sky with hues of orange and purple. If the weather allows, you can also take a boat tour to see the cliffs from the water—a different and equally stunning perspective.
Further inland, Doolin is a fantastic little village to visit. It’s known for its traditional music scene, and in autumn, it’s even more inviting. Many of the pubs, like Gus O’Connor’s, offer warm fires and hearty stews, ideal for refueling after a day of exploring the countryside. The beauty of visiting in autumn is that you get a real sense of Ireland’s wilder side, with fewer tourists and a landscape that feels untouched. Whether it’s the vibrant festivals of Galway or the windswept coastlines of Clare, this season showcases the west of Ireland in its most authentic, where people have time for people The changing light, the golden hues, and the slower pace of life make it a perfect time to truly connect with the West.
