Whether your idea of a getaway is spending time on a sandy beach, exploring fascinating architecture, or hiking out in nature, Clare Island can easily accommodate you. At over 4,000 acres there’s plenty to see and experience here, and it’s also a very historic spot. While the island is not the easiest place to get to in this area of County Mayo, it is definitely worth the trip over on the ferry boat, which is really just a quick 20 minute-ish journey across, coming from Roonagh Quay. And there’s a bonus—you’ll be treated to some lovely scenery along the way!
Clare Island only has a small population that stays here year-round, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do when you go! You'll find there is plenty of lodging if you’d like to stay over and check things out in more detail than a day trip would provide. There’s also a number of pubs, restaurants, and even a food store if you want to pick up a few things while staying there.
Some of the very best stops include the Clare Island lighthouse, the Napoleonic Tower, the Grace O’Malley Castle, and St. Bridget’s Abbey, each of which has a fascinating history and back story to check out. You could spend much of your time seeing these sites alone as they have so much to offer. The Abbey was restored in the 1400’s, and it boasts both carvings and Medieval paintings inside the building's envelope.
People who enjoy a more active take on vacation will want to consider activities such as biking (you can find them for rent here), stand up paddling, or hiking—the views are just phenomenal! The Clew Bay Bike Trail also passes through this area, and may be something to consider for cycling enthusiasts. There’s also a blue flag beach on the island that offers a perfect spot to take in the atmosphere while enjoying a water view.
If you are a visitor who prefers a less physical opportunity to enjoy the sights you may wish to sign up for a bus tour that runs for an hour and hits the highlights of the area along the way. It’s an easy, fun way to see much of Clare Island and hear its stories from the locals. There’s also a company that runs sea safaris by boat if that’s more your thing.
Since Clare Island spans five miles in length and three in width it can make sense to have a general plan for what you’d like to do when you visit, as different attractions will likely require figuring out transportation and accommodation if you’re staying on through a few days. If possible, take advantage of the location and indulge in the unparalleled views provided by the impressive sea cliffs here. If you come in the summer, the nesting sea birds will make quite an impression with the cliffs as a backdrop!
If Clare Island seems like something that you’d like to add to your time when you visit the County Mayo region, be sure to check out the info website here, where you can find further details about the area, as well as where to stay.
We are visiting Westport and County Mayo on this year's Celtic Invasion Vacations. We still have space available fi you want to join me Ireland!
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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among other magazines, and for the Celtic Music Magazine for nearly 15 years. You can reach her through her website at CatherineLTully.com.
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