Clare Island Abbey Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover Clare Island Abbey in County Mayo, a historical landmark steeped in Ireland's ecclesiastical history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary of Clare Island Abbey

Discover Clare Island Abbey in County Mayo, a historical landmark steeped in Ireland's ecclesiastical history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Nestled on Clare Island in County Mayo, Clare Island Abbey is a captivating historical landmark that offers tourists a unique insight into Ireland's ecclesiastical past. The abbey, with its ancient architecture and picturesque surroundings, is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, making it a must-visit destination on your Irish adventure.

4.6 Excellent · 97 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every dayOpen 24 hours

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
Strake, Co. Mayo
Website

Getting there

Car

Start your journey in Croagh Patrick by driving to Roonagh Pier. From Croagh Patrick, take the R335 road heading south for approximately 15 kilometers until you reach Roonagh Pier. There is parking available near the pier, and it is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons. Once parked, head to the ferry terminal.

Ferry

At Roonagh Pier, purchase your ferry ticket to Clare Island. The ferry service operates regularly, and the crossing to Clare Island takes about 20 minutes. Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance, as times may vary depending on the season. The cost for a return ticket is typically around €20 for adults and €10 for children. Keep your ticket safe, as you'll need it for your return journey.

Walking

Once you arrive at Clare Island, disembark the ferry and head towards the village. Clare Island Abbey is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the ferry terminal. Follow the main road leading into the village, then take the road leading towards the Abbey. The walk is scenic and should take about 20-30 minutes. Look for signs directing you to the Abbey along the way.

Bicycle Rental

If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from local shops near the ferry terminal. This is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. Once you have your bike, follow the same route as above to reach Clare Island Abbey. The bike ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes.

Discover more about Clare Island Abbey

Overview

Clare Island Abbey, located on the idyllic Clare Island in County Mayo, is a fascinating historical landmark that draws visitors seeking to explore Ireland's rich ecclesiastical heritage. Built in the 12th century, this abbey is a testament to the architectural prowess of the time, featuring intricate stonework and remnants of its original design that still exude an air of majesty. The abbey's serene setting, surrounded by lush green hills and the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean, offers a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and reflection.As you wander through the ancient ruins, you will be captivated by the well-preserved interior paintings that provide a glimpse into the spiritual life of the monks who once inhabited this sacred space. The abbey stands as a reminder of the community's historical significance and the role it played in the region's religious landscape. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photography, meditation, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.In addition to its historical significance, Clare Island Abbey is a gateway to the natural beauty of Clare Island itself. The island is home to a variety of hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the coastline and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you are a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Clare Island Abbey is an essential stop that will enrich your experience of Ireland's captivating past while allowing you to appreciate the natural wonders of this enchanting island.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Clare Island Abbey on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Clare Island Abbey, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Clare Island Abbey, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Clare Island Abbey

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

County Mayo
More of the region

Explore more of County Mayo

Discover County Mayo, where rugged landscapes meet rich heritage, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.

Explore County Mayo
Ireland
More of the country

Explore more of Ireland

Discover Ireland: A land of enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, where every corner tells a story and every visit feels like coming home.

Explore Ireland
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to County Mayo, Ireland

Discover County Mayo with Evendo – a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and much more. Plan and book your perfect trip today!

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants
  • Booking capabilities for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Download Evendo, the ultimate travel guide app for County Mayo, Ireland. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Plan and book your trip – all in one place.

  • In-depth historical insights and travel essentials
  • Local advice to ensure you get the most out of your visit
  • Easy navigation through the app and the destination
  • 'Near Me' feature to discover what's around you
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs
  • Global coverage with information on over 7,000 destinations

Welcome to Evendo, the ultimate travel guide app designed to make your trip to County Mayo, Ireland unforgettable. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Evendo is your one-stop solution for discovering the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in County Mayo.

With detailed information on local gems like Croagh Patrick, Westport House, and the stunning Achill Island, Evendo ensures you won't miss any of the county's must-see destinations. Savor the local cuisine at renowned restaurants such as An Port Mór in Westport or enjoy a pint at Matt Molloy's Pub. The app also provides rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easier than ever to plan and organize your trip.

Evendo goes beyond just guiding you; it allows you to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more need to search for what to see, do, and experience – and then figuring out how to get there and get tickets. Evendo has it all in one place, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Featuring in-depth historical insights, travel essentials, local advice, and easy-to-use navigation, Evendo is designed to help you experience County Mayo like a local. The 'Near Me' feature allows you to discover what’s around you, no matter where you are, enhancing your travel experience. And the best part? Evendo is 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.

Beyond County Mayo, Evendo covers over 7,000 other destinations worldwide. Once you download the app, you have the world in your pocket.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.