I‘d argue that Clare Island lighthouse go toe-to-toe with the best hotels in Mayo. Genuinely.
Give me Clare Island Lighthouse over the likes of Ashford Castle any day. Although I’d gladly spend a month in Ashford…
There’s a handful of beautiful old lighthouses dotted across Ireland’s glorious coastline that have been carefully transformed into boutique accommodation in recent years.
The best of the bunch, in my opinion, can be found on Clare Island in County Mayo. You’ll find everything you need to know about it below.
Welcome to the incredible Clare Island Lighthouse
Photo via Clare Island Lighthouse
You’ll find Clare Island Lighthouse, unsurprisingly enough, on the windswept Clare Island in County Mayo on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
The island, which lies off the south Mayo coast at the entrance to Clew Bay, boasts spectacular cliffs, hills, bogs and woodlands.
The lighthouse is situated at the most northerly point of the island, high up on cliffs, offering an incredible view of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
About the lighthouse on Clare Island
Photo via Clare Island Lighthouse
Built in 1806 by the Marquis of Sligo, Clare Island Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1965, after an impressive 159 years of faithful service.
Ironically enough, the lighthouse was decommissioned due to an issue caused by the height of the point where it was built.
It’s so high up on the cliffs that it was regularly shrouded in mist. The current owner purchased the property in 2008 and ensured that it was carefully renovated back to its former glory.
What it’s like inside Clare Island Lighthouse
Photo via Clare Island Lighthouse
The inside of the lighthouse on Clare Island looks seriously swanky! Imagine kicking back in that chair with a cup of coffee and gazing out at the sea while the wind rushes against the windows. Magic.
There are a number of different rooms that you can choose from (full list here), but I’d be aiming to rest the head in the ‘Achill View’ room.
This room is located at the top of a curved oak staircase in the original Lighthouse Keeper’s residence. On a clear day, you’ll have unbeatable views out over Achill Island.
How much a night will set you back
Photo via Clare Island Lighthouse
So, a night a Clare Island Lighthouse certainly isn’t cheap, but the many extras included along with the very unique experience the accommodation offers will hopefully soften the blow a little.
- Achill View, Sauna Suite, Tower House: €1,200 for 2 people sharing for 2 nights (prices may change)
- Cliff Corner or Wm. Landers (twin): €1,000 as above (prices may change)
The prices above include your room, dinner for 2 on both evenings, a drink before and after your meal along with a bottle of house wine each evening (more info on rates here).
Fancy seeing some more unique Irish accommodation?
Photos via Airbnb.ie
If you love unique and quirky places to stay, you’ll enjoy having a poke around in the where to stay in Ireland section of our site.
It’s packed with unusual and alternative accommodation. G’wan – click here to have a little browse!
Howaya! Thanks for visiting the Irish road trip! This site exists to inspire and guide you on an Irish adventure that’ll give birth to a lifetime of memories (sounds very arsey altogether, I know!).
áine maher
Wednesday 1st of January 2020
Hi Keith, have you any availabilities for the 5th and 6th, and if so how much?
Many thanks, Áins
Keith
Saturday 4th of January 2020
Hey Aine - this isn't actually my property (I wish...). You'd need to get in touch with the folks at Clare Island Lighthouse directly. Very jealous of you staying here!