Leave Westport taking the R335 to Louisburgh. As you pass the Quay, it is worth visiting the Clew Bay Heritage
Centre located at the Harbour. The centre provides a genealogical service and accommodates a wide selection of
historical and archaeological artefacts.
On leaving The Centre continue on the Louisburgh Road. On your right enjoy the breathtaking views of Clew Bay
with its numerous islands, (tops of submerged drumlins) and to tour left, the glory of Croagh Patrick, "Ireland’s
Holy Mountain" and one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, soaring to a height of 762 metres. St Patrick is reputed
to have spent forty days and nights praying and fasting on the summit, in 441A.D. as part of his efforts to convert
pagan Ireland to Christianity. A recent archaeological survey has shown that the summit of Croagh Patrick was a
Bronze Age Hillforth, complete with stone ramparts and dwellings.
At Murrisk, approx. 6 miles from Westport on the right hand side of the road, opposite Croagh Patrick, is the
National Famine Monument, unveiled by President Mary Robinson in 1 997, which commemorates all those who died
in the great Famine of 1845-49. The road to the right leads to the ruins of the 1 5th century Augustinian Murrisk
Friary, on the shore of Clew Bay.
Towards Louisburgh there are many fine Blue Flag beaches along the coastline, Bertra, Old Head and Carrowmore.
Louisburgh (the name in Irish, Cluain Cearban, means The Meadow of the Buttercups), was renamed after the uncle of
the Marquis of Sligo, who in 1 758, helped capture the French fortress of Louisburgh in Nova Scotia.
Go straight through Louisburgh. About a mile along this road take a turn right, signposted Roonagh Quay. From
here two ferry services operate to Clare Island, (duration of trip 20 minutes). Check Tourist Information Office
in Westport for ferry times.
Clare Island, at the mouth of Clew Bay, is the largest island on the bay, with a population of approx. 1 50.
On a rocky headland at the harbour is the 1 5th century castle which was once the stronghold of Granuaile,
the pirate queen. There is a beautiful sandy Blue Flag Beach surrounding the main harbour.
Clare Island’s remarkably varied terrain offers the ideal territory for both serious hill-walkers and the
casual visitor out for a stroll. Within easy walking distance of the harbour is the 13th century Cistercian
Abbey, which contains rare medieval walls and ceiling paintings.
The last ferry leaves the island at approx. 700p.m. Alternatively, there is hotel, hostel, and B&B. accommodation
available on the island.
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To see the next or previous drive click on the buttons below...
"...soaring to a height
of 762 metres...
Croagh Patrick"
"Famine Monument"
"Clare Island"
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