For an exotic getaway just a few hours from Paris, head to the west of Ireland. In County Galway, in the heart of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey stands on the edge of a lake, surrounded by mountains and moors. Thanks to this striking setting, you feel as if you are standing in front of a castle set in an almost unreal landscape.
An old Victorian castle nicknamed “the jewel of Connemara”
From Paris, it takes about two hours to fly to Dublin, then three hours by car westward to reach Kylemore. The journey takes you through increasingly wild landscapes, including peat bogs, hills, and isolated villages. Upon arriving at the edge of Lough Pollacappul, the imposing silhouette of the building suddenly comes into view, its facade reflected in the water.
Kylemore was not originally an abbey but a castle. Its construction began in 1867 by Mitchell Henry, an English businessman, as a private residence. The neo-Gothic architecture, inspired by grand Victorian mansions, contrasts with the raw nature of Connemara. After several changes of ownership, the estate was acquired in 1920 by Benedictine nuns from Belgium. They founded an abbey and a boarding school for girls there.
Today, part of the building is open to visitors. Visitors can explore several restored salons, an exhibition tracing the history of the site, and the small neo-Gothic church built in memory of Mitchell Henry’s wife. A few minutes’ walk away, the Victorian gardens are another must-see. Carefully restored, they feature vegetable gardens and flower beds laid out according to the original plans.
The natural environment adds greatly to the charm of the getaway. Kylemore Park covers several hectares and offers walking trails around the lake. The Connemara mountains in the background offer a magnificent panorama, weather permitting.
To extend your stay, the region is full of iconic landscapes: wild beaches, scenic roads, and small fishing ports. Connemara remains one of Ireland’s most unspoiled areas, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and wide open spaces.
Kylemore Abbey combines architectural heritage with spectacular natural surroundings. Just a few hours from Paris, this destination offers a complete break from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s the perfect, little-known getaway for discovering authentic Ireland, with its romantic history and magnificent landscapes.
📍Kylemore Abbey – Galway – Ireland