Ireland’s home to a heap of unique accommodation (see our where to stay section).
From 5 star hotels and castles to hostels, B&Bs and Airbnbs, there’s a little bit of something to tickle every fancy (and budget).
There’s also a handful of beautiful old lighthouses dotted across the island that has been carefully transformed into boutique accommodation.
The best of the bunch can be found on Clare Island in County Mayo. You’ll find everything you need to know below.
Welcome to the incredible 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.
What it’s like inside
The inside of the lighthouse 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.
A brief history of the 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.
How much a night will set you back
So, a night here 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
- Cliff Corner or Wm. Landers (twin): €1,000 as above
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?
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!
Hi Keith, have you any availabilities for the 5th and 6th, and if so how much?
Many thanks,
Áins
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!