The Bridges Of Ross: One Of Clare’s More Unusual Attractions

The Bridges of Ross are one of the more unusual places to visit in Clare.

This spectacular natural sea arch is one of the highlights of the Loop Head Peninsula, and it’s perfectly paired with a trip to Loop Head Lighthouse.

Despite there only being one of the original three bridges left, this is still a magical natural landmark that has been attracting visitors for many-a-year.

Some quick need-to-knows about the Bridges of Ross

Although a visit to the Bridges of Ross in Clare is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

The Bridges of Ross are located on the northern side of the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. 

2. Parking

There’s a decent size car park right near the bridge off the road (here on Google Maps).

3. The walk

It’s around a 600m/15-minute walk from the car park to the Bridges. This is a flat trail that is rough underfoot.

4. Safety

The cliffs here are unguarded so it is important to always be conscious of where the edge is, especially during bad weather. Never get too close to the edge and keep an eye on kids at all times.

About the Bridges of Ross

The name of this natural feature is slightly misleading. Originally, there were three natural sea arches, two of which have since fallen into the water after many years of erosion.

There’s only one bridge remaining, but the spot is still referred to in plural as ‘the Bridges of Ross’.

You can’t see the bridge from the road, and it requires a short, 15-minute walk to reach the viewing point above.

You can safely walk across the arch (see photo on the left above) once you keep away from the edge, but be aware of the weather conditions as it can get very breezy out there.

For keen birdwatchers, late summer and autumn is a great time to visit with seabirds passing very close to the shore at this time.

You can see thousands of rare seabirds on their southbound migration from the cliffs edge.

Things to do nearby

One of the beauties of the Bridges of Ross is that it’s a short spin away from many of Clare’s top attractions.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from the Bridges.

1. Loop Head Lighthouse

Loop Head Lighthouse is the crown jewel of the Loop Head Peninsula in West Clare.

This historic lighthouse stands right at the edge of the coast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with views across to Dingle and up to the Cliffs of Moher on a clear day.

2. Kilkee Cliff Walk

The Kilkee Cliff Walk is an 8km moderate loop walk on the Loop Head Peninsula that takes in the impressive sea cliffs.

It begins in the town of Kilkee and follows the coastline passing by stunning scenery and coastal landscapes.

There’s also a shorter 5km version if you’re shot on time, with well-defined trails to follow.

3. Further into Clare

For those of you exploring Clare and beyond, the Aran Islands, the Burren National Park, Doolin and more are a stone’s throw away.