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Diamond Hill: A Connemara Jewel

Hike Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park for breathtaking panoramic views of Ireland's rugged coastline and iconic landmarks.

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Diamond Hill, nestled in Connemara National Park near Letterfrack, offers stunning panoramic views of Connemara's coastline, the Twelve Bens mountain range, and Kylemore Abbey. With well-maintained trails, it's a popular hike for both locals and tourists, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Irish landscape.

A brief summary to Diamond Hill

  • Unnamed Rd Co. Galway, Letterfrack, Co. Galway, IE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in Connemara can change rapidly.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and outdoor clothing, as the trails can be steep and exposed.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the Upper Diamond Hill trail.
  • Arrive early during peak season to secure parking at the Connemara National Park Visitor Centre.
  • Take your time and enjoy the stunning views along the trails.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Diamond Hill is accessed through Connemara National Park, with the trailhead starting at the Visitor Centre near Letterfrack. From the Visitor Centre, follow the well-marked trails. The Lower Diamond Hill Walk is a 3km loop, while the Upper Diamond Hill Walk extends to 3.7km, reaching the summit. Both trails are well-maintained with gravel paths, wooden boardwalks and stone steps. There are no additional costs for accessing the trails.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, services from Galway and Westport stop in Letterfrack. From the Letterfrack bus stop, it's a short walk along the N59 to the entrance of Connemara National Park. Follow the signs to the Visitor Centre, where the Diamond Hill trails begin. Bus Éireann route 419 and CityLink route 923 operate from Galway to Letterfrack. A single adult fare from Galway to Letterfrack costs approximately €13-€18.

  • Car

    If driving, follow the N59 to Letterfrack. The entrance to Connemara National Park is located just outside the village. Turn off the N59 at the sign for the National Park and follow the road to the Visitor Centre. Parking at the Visitor Centre is free. However, overnight parking and camping are not permitted. From the car park, the Diamond Hill trails are a short walk.

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Discover more about Diamond Hill

Diamond Hill, or *Binn Ghuaire* in Irish, meaning 'Guaire's peak', is a prominent peak within Connemara National Park, rising to 442 meters (1,450 ft). Situated near the village of Letterfrack in County Galway, it's a highlight of the park, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hiking experience. The name 'Diamond Hill' comes from the sparkling quartz crystals found on the mountain, which glisten in the sun. Another name for Diamond Hill is Bengooria. The mountain's history is intertwined with Irish legend, with its Irish name potentially referencing Guaire Aidne mac Colmáin, an ancient king known for his generosity. The lands surrounding Diamond Hill were historically used for agriculture, including grazing and turf cutting, before becoming part of the national park. Today, Diamond Hill is renowned for its accessibility and panoramic views. The well-maintained trails, including wooden boardwalks and stone paths, make it a safe and enjoyable hike for various fitness levels. From the summit, hikers can admire the Twelve Bens, Kylemore Abbey, the Atlantic coastline, and nearby islands like Inishbofin and Inishturk. The park also contains a visitor's center that was built around 1890 and formerly belonged to the Letterfrack Industrial School. Connemara National Park, encompassing Diamond Hill, spans almost 3,000 hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands. Opened in 1980, the park aims to conserve this diverse landscape and its wildlife.

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