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There are B&Bs and self catering guest houses across the island.
Encapsulated in the Saw Doctor’s song ‘The Green and Red of Mayo’, Clare Island is located 3.5 miles off the west coast of County Mayo, Ireland. The ferry crossing from Roonagh Pier takes approximately 25 minutes and there is every chance that you will be accompanied on your journey by a school of dolphins. Clare Island is the largest (5 miles long and 3 miles wide) of the 365 islands in Clew Bay. Famous as the ancestral home of the legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley (Granuaile), the island has a population of about 160 people; economic activities include farming, fishing and tourism with numerous other small businesses also supporting a vibrant community.
Clare Island’s silhouette is dominated by the peak of Knockmore at 462 metres on her North-Western edge and the more gently sloping Knocknaveen to her centre. Her western cliffs are among the most dramatic in Europe and are home to large numbers of nesting sea birds.
Once on Clare Island, there is so much to see and do – the island’s rich history, geological and biological landscape (studied in depth in the Clare Island Survey) can be explored on foot, bike or mini bus. Be sure to take time out to view the Blue Flag Beach, Granuaile’s Castle, the 12th century Cistercian Abbey, the Lighthouse, the Napoleonic Tower and the various Bronze-Age sites. Why not call in and see the Heritage Centre or Ballytoughey Loom? There are also plenty of activities to suit everyone including hiking, cycling, fishing, swimming, boat trips, yoga retreats, weaving courses and a variety of adventure activities.
Clare Island plays host to a number of festivals and events including the: 10k, Play , Annual Yacht Race, Junior Céilí, Annual Bonfire Beach Party, Annual Football tournament, Snas ar do Bhlas – Irish weekend, Bard, Regatta, Tall Ship Celebrations, Comhaltas seisiúns, Open Mic Nights, Féile Cheoil, Adventure Race, Film Festival, and Christmas Concert & Market.
Clare Island also boasts a rich cultural heritage witnessed through its many craftspeople, artists, musicians and dancers. There are two pubs on the island offering plenty craic agus ceoil. Accommodation on the island is of a high standard and includes camping, a hostel, the lighthouse, B&B’s and self-catering. Delicious island fare is available from 11 am daily. In the off-season you are advised to check our website for restaurant opening hours.
Clare Island is a great place to go if you are looking for a holiday, weekend away, a night out or just a day trip – so go on take yourself to Clare Island!
If you’re looking for a boutique wedding venue, then pay Clare Island a visit. We have been host to a number of small wedding celebrations and we’re beginning to be recognised as a wedding destination that will stand out in guests’ memories.
Island weddings are not for every couple, but they are an exciting option for those planning an intimate wedding.
“Unique”, “stunning location”, “culturally and historically rich” are words that best describe the destination. And those who choose to exchange vows here tend to be quirky couples who look to operate outside the mainstream. If that sounds like a match to you, our boutique wedding venue might be just what you’re looking for.
Clare Island is the wedding destination. Sailor’s Bar & Go Explore Hostel is the reception location.
You can accommodate your guests in some of the most unique guesthouses in Ireland, such as O’ Gradys Guesthouse located right on the beach, or the Lighthouse perched on a dramatic cliff face overlooking the open Atlantic and Achill Island. Clare Island B&Bs are run by locals who will impart hospitality and local knowledge to your guests, giving them a real sense of this beautiful island.
