Connemara National Park
Covering some 2957 hectares of secenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands, Connemara National Park is a sight to be hold. Establlished and opend to the public in 1980. Some of the Park's mountains namely Bencullagh, Benbrack and Benbaun and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens. The heart of the park is Gleann Mor (Big Glen), through which flows the River Polladirk. There's fine walking up the glen and over the surrounding mountains. There are two-to three-hour guided nature walks and there is also a short, self guided walk. Birdlife in the area is varied and includes Meadow Pipits, Skylarks, Stonechats, Chaffinches, Robins and Wrens. Rabbits, foxes, stoats, shrews and bats are often observed at night. The largest mammal in the park is the Connemara Pony. Although a domestic animal this pony is vey much part of the countryside. Opened in 1980, the Park Visitor Centre at Letterfrack, includes an exhibition on the boglands, an audio-visual introduction to the Park and nature trails.
