Clare Island

Discover Clare Island

Magnificent sea views await at the entrance of Clew Bay, on an island of 4,053 acres, a mere 5 miles long and 3 miles wide. Visit a Pirate queen’s castle, ancient tombs, and learn of the hefty heritage on this sparsely populated location. Relax at beaches, coves and cliffs or connect with creative locals working at looms, studios and retreats. Sample whiskey aged at sea, hear of cooking methods from ancient times, then taste the sea with delicious meals of locally sourced fresh lobster. 

Granuaile Castle – Stronghold of 16th century O’Malley clan chieftain, the remarkable Queen of piracy and plunder, Grace O’Malley. On a rocky headland, a square tower at the harbour placed her strategically to levy taxes on foreign sea vessels. More than a pirate, this powerful Queen negotiated directly with Queen Elizabeth in Latin, their only common language.

The Clare Island Abbey – Attributed with the best-preserved medieval wall and ceiling paintings. Originally in colour, they depict mythical, human & animal figures featured in a 12th-century St Brigid’s Cistercian Abbey.

Court Tombs & Fulachta Fia – Outdoor cooking was done in Fulachta Fia in ancient times, a multitude discovered here proves it has been inhabited since 3500 B.C. Explore the evidence of iron-age huts and field systems on the island.