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Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse: A Pirate Queen's Stronghold

Explore the historic Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse on Achill Island, a window into Ireland's Pirate Queen and stunning coastal views.

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Kildavnet Tower, also known as Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse, is a 15th-century tower house on Achill Island, Co. Mayo, offering a glimpse into the life of the legendary pirate queen, Grace O'Malley. Explore the tower's remnants and imagine the maritime adventures of this formidable figure against the backdrop of Achill's rugged coastline.

A brief summary to Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse, Kildavnet Tower

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable footwear, as the terrain around the tower can be uneven.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit, as it can be windy and rainy.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby coastal trails for stunning views.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Achill Sound, head southwest on the N59. Continue for approximately 8 km until you see signs for Kildavnet. Turn left onto the R319 and follow it for about 5 km to Kildavnet. The tower is located off the R319 on an unnamed road. There is parking available near the site. Be mindful of local traffic. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Achill Sound to Dooagh. From Dooagh, hire a taxi to reach Kildavnet. Bus services may be infrequent, so check the timetable in advance. The taxi journey from Dooagh to Kildavnet is approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxi fare is approximately €15-€20.

  • Walking

    If you are in Kildavnet, follow the signs towards the tower. The walk is approximately 1 kilometer along a scenic path. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes.

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Discover more about Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse, Kildavnet Tower

Grace O'Malley's Towerhouse, or Kildavnet Tower, stands as a testament to a turbulent past on the southeastern shore of Achill Island. Built around 1429 by the O'Malley clan, this 12-meter-tall, three-story tower strategically guarded the Achill Sound, connecting Clew Bay and Blacksod Bay. Best known as one of the strongholds of the legendary pirate queen, Grace O'Malley (Granuaile), the tower offers a tangible link to her story. Born around 1530, Grace O'Malley defied convention, becoming a feared sea captain and leader. The tower provided a strategic vantage point for controlling the surrounding waters and protecting the O'Malley's maritime interests. Visitors can explore the tower's exterior, imagining the bustling activity that once surrounded this pirate castle. Located near the tower are the remains of the ancient Kildavnet Church and cemetery, adding another layer of historical significance to the site. The cemetery contains unmarked graves of famine victims and a memorial to the Clew Bay Drowning of 1894 and the Kirkintilloch Fire of 1937. The tower's location along the Wild Atlantic Way makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the island's dramatic coastal scenery.

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