Clare Island Lighthouse

Top choice in County Mayo


With its ends-of-the-earth feel, views onto jagged cliffs and regular blasts of salt spray, there's a dash of magic about this boutique retreat on the island's north coast. Facilities in the sleek suites vary: one has a sauna, others open fires or underfloor heating. The Tower Suite has a spiral staircase leading to a circular bedroom in the old lantern room.

There's a two-night minimum stay.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby County Mayo attractions

1. Knockmore

2.21 MILES

A hike up 462m Knockmore in the northwest of the island rewards with superb views over Clare Island's sheep-dotted moorlands to the mainland beyond.

2. Granuaile's Castle

2.25 MILES

Associated with the pirate queen Grace O'Malley, this compact castle tower was her stronghold, although it was altered considerably when the coastguard…

3. Clare Island Abbey

2.3 MILES

The chancel roof of 13th-century Clare Island Abbey is dotted with faded fragments of murals, dating from around 1500. Look out too for the tomb reputed…

4. Grace O'Malley's Castle

4.08 MILES

The 40ft-high, 15th-century tower house rising beside the shore at Kildownet is associated with the pirate queen Grace O'Malley. Entering through a steel…

5. Kildownet Church and Cemetery

4.25 MILES

These ruins probably date to the 17th century, but an earlier church dating to the 16th century also existed here, perhaps built by Grace O'Malley who…

8. Carrowmore

7.65 MILES

The sheltered, broad beach at Carrowmore, just west of Louisburgh village, offers good views of Croagh Patrick and has a lifeguard on duty in summer.