Clifden Harbour and Quay
A charming harbourside hotel with antique-filled rooms, known for its genial hosts and spectacular breakfasts overlooking Clifden Harbour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy spectacular breakfasts
Clifden Harbour and Quay
Best Time
Enjoy spectacular breakfasts
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming harbourside hotel with antique-filled rooms, known for its genial hosts and spectacular breakfasts overlooking Clifden Harbour.
"The family who runs the Quay House are genial and generous with their time and passion for Connemara."
🤝 Meet the Owners
Paddy and Julia are incredibly welcoming and passionate about Connemara. Chatting with them is a highlight!
🍳 Don't Miss Breakfast!
The breakfasts are legendary and can keep you going all day. A must-try experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Quay House Lounges
Step into a treasure trove of antiques, art, and cozy furnishings. A truly unique and inviting atmosphere.
Spectacular Connemara Breakfasts
Fuel your day with generous, delicious breakfasts that are a highlight for many visitors.
Calming Harbour Views
Enjoy serene and gorgeous vistas of the Clifden Harbour from the hotel and surrounding quay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Clifden
Savor the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Meet the Owners
Paddy and Julia are incredibly welcoming and passionate about Connemara. Chatting with them is a highlight!
🍳 Don't Miss Breakfast!
The breakfasts are legendary and can keep you going all day. A must-try experience.
🛋️ Relax in the Parlor
Enjoy tea and conversation in the cozy, antique-filled parlors. It's a delightful way to spend time.
🚶 Explore Clifden Town
Take time to wander through the charming, colorful streets of Clifden town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Meet the Owners
Paddy and Julia are incredibly welcoming and passionate about Connemara. Chatting with them is a highlight!
🍳 Don't Miss Breakfast!
The breakfasts are legendary and can keep you going all day. A must-try experience.
🛋️ Relax in the Parlor
Enjoy tea and conversation in the cozy, antique-filled parlors. It's a delightful way to spend time.
🚶 Explore Clifden Town
Take time to wander through the charming, colorful streets of Clifden town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the extraordinary experience at The Quay House, highlighting the genial and passionate family owners, the unique antique-filled lounges, and the spectacular breakfasts. The calming harbour views and the helpfulness of the staff, especially Julia, are frequently mentioned positives. While the charm is undeniable, some might prefer a more modern aesthetic.
"An extraordinary experience! The family who runs the Quay (Key!) House are genial and generous with their time and passion for Connemara. The public rooms are stuffed with a three decade accumulation of turtle shells, antlers, stuffed parrots, oriental carpets and cosy furniture. The views of the harbor are calming and gorgeous. Breakfasts are spectacular!"
Hank Copeland
"I was torn most nights- I wanted to explore the wonderful charming colorful town and meet the local gems, but I also wanted to stay in and drink tea in the parlor and chat with paddy and Julia- the owners. This was such a delightful problem to have."
Jessica Beauregard
"Nice quiet location, really friendly and helpful owners. Rooms have character and are well equipped. Nice bright breakfast room."
Mark Openshaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clifden is accessible by car and bus. The nearest major airport is Shannon Airport (SNN), about a 1.5-hour drive away. From Galway city, you can take a bus directly to Clifden.
Parking is generally available near the harbour and quay, especially for guests of The Quay House. It's advisable to check with your accommodation for specific parking arrangements.
Many visitors enjoy exploring Clifden town on foot. For wider exploration of Connemara, renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clifden Harbour and Quay are public areas and do not require tickets for general access. If you are staying at The Quay House, booking accommodation is necessary.
The harbour and quay are accessible at all times. The Quay House has specific check-in and breakfast hours, which are best confirmed directly with the hotel.
The Quay House is a hotel, so there is no entrance fee for the public areas unless you are a guest. Guests enjoy access to the lounges and breakfast.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy the scenic harbour views, explore the charming town of Clifden, and experience the unique atmosphere of The Quay House with its antique-filled lounges and exceptional breakfasts.
Rooms at The Quay House are described as having character, being well-equipped, and offering a unique, antique-filled ambiance. Some rooms may have balconies.
Yes, Clifden and The Quay House are very welcoming to solo travelers. The friendly owners and cozy atmosphere make it a comfortable and engaging experience.
Expect a relaxed, charming, and friendly atmosphere. The Quay House is known for its genial hosts and a sense of stepping back in time with its decor.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining highlight is the spectacular breakfast served at The Quay House, known for its generosity and quality. Clifden town offers various pubs and restaurants for lunch and dinner.
While specific menus aren't detailed, The Quay House is known for its accommodating hosts. It's recommended to inform them of any dietary needs in advance.
Yes, guests can enjoy tea in the cozy parlors, and the owners are known for their hospitality.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque harbour, colorful boats, and the unique architecture of The Quay House. The surrounding Connemara landscape also offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for capturing the serene harbour views and the charm of the town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking rooms with character and enjoying the hearty breakfasts together. The relaxed pace allows families to enjoy their time without feeling rushed. Exploring the colorful town of Clifden is also a pleasant activity for all ages.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Embrace the chance to chat with Paddy and Julia, enjoy the cozy parlors, and savor the spectacular breakfasts. The town of Clifden itself is safe and easy to explore on foot, offering a pleasant atmosphere for independent exploration. It's a place where you can feel comfortable and engaged, even when traveling alone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of The Quay House
The owners, Paddy and Julia, are frequently praised for their warmth and helpfulness. They go above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable introduction to Ireland, making it a delightful problem to have to choose between exploring the town or enjoying the hotel's ambiance.
Experiencing Clifden and Connemara
Beyond the immediate vicinity, Clifden serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Connemara region. This area is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, including mountains, bogs, and a dramatic coastline. Popular activities include scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, hiking in Connemara National Park, and visiting historical sites like Kylemore Abbey. The warmth of the locals, as exemplified by the hosts at The Quay House, adds to the overall appeal of the region.
Social
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