Westport County Mayo

Take a Ferry to Clare Island

Clare Island, off the west coast of Ireland, is a wonderful place to escape to. The two days I spent there last spring were two of the most glorious days of my trip.

The narrow road I hiked to the north edge of the island started at the 15th century castle which was the stronghold of the famous pirate queen Granuaile (Grace O'Malley) and took me through fields of grazing sheep and ancient Bronze Age cooking sites. The blue sky with huge rolling white clouds was a perfect backdrop to one of the best days I've had in Ireland (or anywhere, for that matter).

As the elevation of the island increased, the views of Ireland's west coast and of the other Clew Bay islands became more and more beautiful. I couldn't have imagined the stunning cliffs I ended at and peered over to see the sea below. The strong wind made standing close to the edge a bit scary as I had thoughts of what my mom's reaction would be. I even took some video to show her when I returned safely!

To top off my hiking adventure, there was a lighthouse beautifully situated on the island cliffs. The lighthouse and nearby structure had been used as a bed and breakfast and was being renovated as a private retreat spot. The owner, who happened to be on site, graciously allowed me to have a look around, climb the inner stairway to the top of the lighthouse, and take photographs from every vantage point. This is my idea of heaven.

Clare Island is the largest and highest island in Clew Bay. It has been inhabited for 5, 000 years. When you visit, you can easily hike or bike to remains of promontory forts, a megalithic tomb and Grace O'Malley's burial site at the 13th century Cistercian abbey.

You will enjoy the sandy beaches and clear water as you search for rare flowers, seabirds including peregrine falcons, as well as ancient artifacts. The peak of Knockmore is another destination you can explore on the island.

The beautiful, clear waters surrounding the island are famous for their dive sites.

Clare Island is also known as a place for lively summer festivals and year-round traditional music. I had a tasty meal at the community center where nightly dinner is served.

I stayed O'Grady's Guest House, a spotless bed and breakfast owned the same friendly family who runs the Clare Island Ferry Company.

You can reach the island by ferry from Roonagh pier, outside Louisburgh. The pier is a 35 minute drive southwest of Westport, County Mayo, which is one of my favorite towns in Ireland. The 5 km (3 mile) ferry trip offers a unique view of the west coast of Ireland and of Clare Island. The ferries run daily, weather permitting.

If you have time, stop at the Grace O'Malley museum in Louisburgh before your trip to the island. You will be amazed at the story of the pirate queen's life. She had unbelievable adventures including her interactions with Queen Elizabeth.

You will have a unique experience when you visit Clare Island, Ireland. I wanted to stay longer and I will return one day soon.

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10 Feb 2012 at 10:03pm

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