Loop Head

Did you know the Loop Head Peninsula was recently voted as the best place to holiday in Ireland?

It is the true essence of the Wild Atlantic Way with its panoramic cliff views and countless activities to choose from, whether you want to stay dry on land or feel like braving the wild water of the Atlantic ocean. With charming seaside villages full of cosy pubs and restaurants serving delicious fresh local seafood and plenty of quiet, unspoilt beauty spots, a visit to Loop Head is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience of the real Ireland.

The area also attracts the attention of geologists from all over the world , eager to explore its natural archaeological wonders including dramatic cliff-scapes, sea stacks, stony coves, sand beaches and estuarine mudflats.

It is also one of three places in Ireland that broadcasts a DGPS signal, which improves the accuracy of GPS navigation systems used by mariners.

The most iconic feature of the peninsula though is perched proudly at the very tip of the Loop Head Peninsula, surrounded by cliffs sculpted by Atlantic storms.

Loop Head Lighthouse is a major landmark on the northern shore of the river Shannon, perched 90 metres above the wild Atlantic seas. There has been a light here at Loop Head since 1670!

It was originally a coal brazier on a platform on the roof of the cottage lighthouse where the lightkeeper lived. The first ‘tower’ lighthouse was built in 1802 which was replaced with a new tower in 1854.

The lighthouse made the switch to electric operation in 1971 and was eventually automated in 1991. The lighthouse has breathtaking views of the Wild Atlantic Way and all the charm and romance of an old school lighthouse.

A visit to the lighthouse allows you to uncover its fascinating history through interactive exhibits in the lighthouse keepers cottage or you can take a guided tour up the lighthouse tower to the balcony, which has jaw-dropping views as far south as the Blasket Islands in Co Kerry, and north to the Twelve Pins in Connemara.

Visit www.loopheadlighthouse.ie for more information.