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Loop Head Lighthouse (History, Map + Incredible Cliffs)

Loop Head Lighthouse (History, Map + Incredible Cliffs)

The cliffs at Loop Head Lighthouse is one of the most popular places to visit in Clare.

The now-iconic structure has been guiding ships on the wild Loop Head Peninsula since 1670.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse, admire the sea stack and see the magnificent Cliffs of Campoy.

Some quick need-to-knows before you visit Loop Head Lighthouse

a map of loop head lighthouse

 

Although a visit to Loop Head Lighthouse in Clare is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Loop Head Lighthouse is located right on the end of Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. It’s 30 minutes from Kilkee, a 1-hour drive from Spanish Point, a 1-hour and 10-minute drive from Lahinch and 1.5 hours from Doolin.

2. Parking

There’s a handy little car park right in front of the Loop Head Lighthouse that is rarely full, even during peak season.

3. Weather

The weather at Loop Head can get very wild and windy at any time of the year. You’ll want to make sure you pack good waterproof clothing. If you plan on seeing the cliffs as well, the ground can get VERY boggy, so you’ll also want to make sure you have good, sturdy footwear.  

4. Safety

The Loop Head cliffs are unguarded which, when combined with the strong winds, can be extremely dangerous. Please always be conscious of where the cliff edge is and steer well clear of it!

 

About Loop Head Lighthouse

Loop Head

Photos via Shutterstock

Loop Head Lighthouse stands dramatically on the edge of the tip of the wild Loop Head Peninsula and it has been guiding ships since 1670.

Initially, like many lighthouses at the time, it featured a coal-burning brazier on the roof of the lightkeeper’s cottage (you can still see signs of this).

The first lighthouse tower was built in 1802 and it stood proudly for 50+ years until it was replaced in 1854 by a lofty, 23-metre-high structure.

In 1869, the light transitioned from a fixed beam to a white light that flashed four times every 20 seconds.

Converted to electricity in 1971 and automated in 1991, the lighthouse is one of 70 operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights.

A visit out to the lighthouse offers views across to Kerry Head and Dingle and up to the Cliffs of Moher to the north.

 

Things to do at Loop Head

If you’re visiting the Loop Head Peninsula, you’re in luck – there’s plenty to see and do.

In this section, we look at the various things to do at the lighthouse, from the Loop Head drive to the tour.

1. The Loop Head Lighthouse tour

loop head lighthouse

Photos via Shutterstock

The lighthouse tours climb the tower and take visitors out onto the balcony that offers views out as far south to the Blasket Islands and as far north to the Twelve Pins in Connemara.

Of course, this view is heavily dependent on the weather, which changes often on this remote outcrop.

You can also head into the Light Keeper’s cottage which has displays explaining the history of Irish lighthouses. 

Admission to the lighthouse and tour is €8 for adults, and €5 for children.

 

2. Loop Head cliffs

Kilbaha

As well as the lighthouse, Loop Head is a geological paradise.

There are dramatic cliffs and rock formations around the peninsula as well as wildlife and birds which have drawn visitors for many years. 

If you leave the car park and walk right, you’ll see the Cliffs of Campoy, pictured above.

If you walk behind the lighthouse, you’ll see the sea stack and the ‘EIRE’ sign.

 

3. Spend a night at the Lighthouse accommodation

loop head Lighthouse accommodation

Photos via Loop Head Lighthouse

The Lightkeeper’s House has been turned into tourist accommodation for a truly unique stay on the peninsula.

Surrounded by birds, crashing waves and towering cliffs, it’s a place you won’t forget anytime soon. 

The house sleeps up to five guests with one dog allowed too.

It’s completely self-sufficient with kitchen facilities, a bathroom, wood burning stove and central heating and a patio from where you can enjoy the view on a clear day.

 

The Loop Head Drive

map of the loop head peninsula

One of the beauties of Loop Head Lighthouse 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 Loop Head.

1. Bridges of Ross

the bridges of ross in clare

Photos via Shutterstock

The Bridges of Ross are spectacular sea arches on the western side of Ross Bay near the village of Kilbaha.

While the original formations included three bridges, only one remains.

It can’t be seen from the road but just a few hundred metres from the car park you’ll easily find this hidden gem.

 

2. Kilkee Cliff Walk

the kilkee cliff walk

Photos via Shutterstock

For a scenic ramble on the Loop Head Peninsula, the 8km Kilkee Cliff walk takes in the incredibly impressive Kilkee Cliffs.

Beginning at the Diamond Rocks Café in the town of Kilkee, the path follows the coastline passing by beautiful rock formations and rugged cliffs.

It can also be shortened to a 5km walk if you’re short on time. There are plenty of other things to do in Kilkee while you’re there.

 

3. Spanish Point and Doolin

Doolin Village

Photos courtesy of Chaosheng Zhang

Spanish Point (and nearby Miltown Malbay) is another popular spot not far from Loop Head, on the road out to Doolin.

You can grab food with a view at the Armada Hotel or just watch the waves crash.

There are tonnes of things to do in Doolin, from the Doolin Cliff Walk to Doonagore Castle.

 

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