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Clare Island

Dramatic cliffs; home of pirate queen Grace O’Malley. Clare Island is the largest and highest of Clew Bay's many islands, with dramatic coastal cliffs and spectacular views of one of Ireland's best known peaks, Croagh Patrick. The island has been inhabited for 5,000 years and the remains of promontory forts, a megalithic tomb, ancient field systems and 45 fulachta fiadh (Bronze Age cooking sites) can easily be visited. Clare is most famous as the stronghold of the 16th century pirate queen Grace O'Malley (Granuaile) however, and her castle can still be seen lording over the coast. She is reputedly buried in the island's 13th century Cistercian abbey, also home to some of the finest medieval wall paintings in Ireland. Clare's scenic beauty, pristine beaches, rare flora and gentle peak of Knockmore (461m) make it an ideal destination for walkers, with spectacular sea cliffs supporting large numbers of gannets and peregrine falcons. Offshore, the clear waters surrounding the island are known for their exceptional dive sites. Clare is also known for its lively nightlife, live music and regular summer festivals.

Directions:

Situated 5 km from the nearest mainland harbour, Roonagh Pier, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo.

Access:

Sailings from Roonagh, Louisburgh, Co Mayo.
Clare Island Ferry Co.
Daily, year round.
96 passengers summer,
51 passengers winter.
Tel: +353(0)98 23737
Tel: +353(0)86 8515003
www.clareislandferry.com
O’Malley Ferries Services
Daily, year round.
92 passengers & 12 passengers (2 boats)
Tel: +353(0)98 25045
Tel: + 353(0)86 8777390
www.omalleyferries.com

Descriptions:

• Accommodation
• Activities
• Did you know?
• Population
• Size
• When to visit

Highlights:

Cistercian abbey, Grace O'Malley's castle, beaches, promontory fort, megalithic tomb, fulachta fiadh, signal tower.

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