Clare Island

Clare Island lies off the Mayo coast at the entrance to Clew Bay. Its spectacular cliffs are home to large numbers of nesting sea birds and its hills, bogs and woodlands make it ideal for hill walking. The island's complex history can be read through its landscape: from archaeological remains of the Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze age, to rare medieval wall paintings in the 14th century abbey. One can view the castle and burial place of the famous 'pirate queen' Grace O'Malley's (Grainneuaile). The island population is now around 130, yet everywhere there are traces of past generations, most significantly the 19th century population explosion and subsequent famine when the island's population of 1600 was reduced by half. Old potato ridges, or 'lazy beds' are everywhere: the evening sun reveals them jutting out from the land like the rib cages of some dying beast. Clare Island's scenic beauty, pristine beaches, rare flora and gentle peak of Knockmore (461m) make it an ideal destination for walkers. Bring your walking boots and set out to the waymarked looped trails, look out for the Napoleonic signal tower which was built in 1804. Offshore, the clear waters surrounding the island are known for their exceptional dive sites.

attractions

Mayo