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

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 stunning natural sea arch is one of the highlights of the Loop Head Peninsula, and they’re perfectly paired with a trip to Loop Head Lighthouse.

Despite there only being one of the original three bridges left, this is still a spectacular natural landmark that is worth checking out. 

In the guide below, you’ll get an insight into how the Bridges of Ross formed along with parking info and what to do nearby.

Some quick need-to-knows before you visit the Bridges of Ross

the bridges of ross in clare

Photo by Johannes Rigg (Shutterstock)

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.

Please pay particular notice to the safety warning – the cliffs here are unguarded so care is needed, especially if visiting with kids.

1. Location

The Bridges of Ross is located on the northern side of the Loop Head Peninsula, just before Loop Head Lighthouse in County Clare

2. Parking

There’s a decent size car park right near the bridge off the road on the peninsula. From there it’s just a short walk to the viewpoint along a defined footpath. 

3. Safety

You should be aware that the cliffs are unguarded, which means you need to be very aware 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

bridges of ross

Photos via Shutterstock

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, 5 – 10 minute walk to reach the viewing point above.

You can safely walk across the arch (see photo on the right 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 near the Bridges of Ross

cliffs of moher at night

Photo by Burben (shutterstock)

One of the beauties of the Bridges of Ross is that it’s a short spin away from a clatter of other attractions, both man-made and natural.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from the Bridges of Ross (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. Loop Head Lighthouse

loop head lighthouse

Photo left: Irish Drone Photography. Photo right: Johannes Rigg (Shutterstock)

The 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. The lighthouse is open for tours and accommodation for most of the year.

2. Kilkee Cliff Walk

kilkee cliff walk

Photo left: shutterupeire. Photo right: luciann.photography (Shutterstock)

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. Coastal drive to Spanish Point

spanish point

Photo left: Niall O’Donoghue. Photo right: Patryk Kosmider (Shutterstock)

Spanish Point is a beautiful coastal town on the west coast of Ireland. Located right off the road between Miltown Malbay and Quilty, it’s the perfect destination for a coastal drive in County Clare. The town has a long sandy beach and high waves, popular amongst surfers and swimmers alike. 

FAQs about the Bridges of Ross

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from how long it takes to walk to them from the car park to what to do nearby.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is there parking at the Bridges of Ross?

Yes – there’s a generous car park right next to them, so you won’t have any hassle parking here.

Does it take long to walk to the Bridges of Ross from the car park?

It takes around 5 – 10 minutes to reach the Bridges from the car park.

Are the Bridges of Ross worth visiting?

Yes! Especially if you’re driving from Loop Head Lighthouse, as a stop here will break up the drive.

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David keyes

Monday 11th of April 2022

For me the bridges of Ross is the best place to go to just sit and look at the ocean and watch the birds come and go and if you're lucky as I have been to see the enormous basking sharks nearby it's worth it. I visit it frequently.

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