Loophead Peninsula

Loophead Peninsula is the most westerly part of County Clare. It is located in the south of the county and at the mouth of where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic Ocean. In 2010, Loophead was named as a European Destination of Excellence or EDEN. There are three main villages on the peninsula - Carrigaholt, Cross and Kilbaha. There are a huge number of things to do for the tourist, from bird and dolphin watching to fishing trips, walking and cycling trails. And when you have had enough of that, hopefully relaxing on the beach (if the weather allows!). Beaches include Carrigaholt Beach, Kilbaha beach and Glasheen beach (near Carrigaholt).

<iframe width="618" height="365" frameborder="0" src="/vtplayer/player?videoTourId=2598&id=78821&type=company&width=618&height=365" scrolling="no"></iframe> <br /><a href="/countyclare/activities/178821/loophead-lighthouse">Loophead Lighthouse, Loophead Lighthouse, County Clare</a>

It is the scenery of Loophead Peninsula that will really take your breath away, particularly on a fine day. From Carrigaholt you can go on a dolphin-watching trip and meet some of the 100 strong group of resident bottlenose dolphins who call the Shannon Estuary home.

Due to its coastal location, its no wonder that fishing and deep-sea angling are popular things to do in the region. Outings go from Carrigaholt and Kilbaha. On the drive between Cross and Kilbaha, take a detour at the junction at Clahansavane to witness the Bridges of Ross, naturally occurring sea arches caused by the action of the Atlantic Ocean. Here is also a noted spot for bird-watching and shore sea fishing. The season runs from July to November, but August and September are deemed the best months locally.

Loophead Lighthouse is located on the very furthest tip of the peninsula at Kilbaha. It is open to visitors who can discover the history of the lighthouse and take in the view from its balcony. After visiting the lighthouse, why not walk around the Loophead headland - spot the Eire sign (put in place during the second World War) and you might see dolphins or even whales. The whole area i designated a Special Protection area for its unique bird life including razorbills, fulmer, rock doves and guillemots.

There are lots of places to stay and eat along the peninsula and more than one day is recommended to get the most from this unique location.