The Clare Island Ferry operates daily from Roonagh Quay, near Louisburgh. The ferry sails all year round so you can visit in high season or experience the more remote side of island life.

Climb aboard and soak up the spectacular views of Acaill (Achill Island), the Nephin Beg mountains, Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick as the ferry gently chugs along. Take your time cruising the seas on the Clew Bay Queen and the Pirate Queen, or get there in just nine minutes on the aptly named Sea Sprinter.

O'Malley Ferries also offer a speedy 10-minute trip in comfort. Cosy up in their heated saloon or head up to the deck and breathe in the fresh sea air.

Pedal or promenade

At 8km long and 5km wide, Clare Island is easy to get around. With very few cars on the island, the best way to enjoy the uninterrupted natural scenery is on foot or by bike. 

While it’s possible to walk around the entire island, there are shorter routes too. The 3km Fawnglass Loop begins and ends at the harbour, circling the townland of Fawnglass and Knockaveen Hill. With views of Clew Bay, the waymarked trail brings you to Granuaile’s Castle and takes about an hour. You can't go inside the castle but it's still worth a visit to see where Grace O'Malley, the legendary Irish Pirate Queen, once lived. 

If you fancy a longer jaunt, the 7km Knocknaveen Loop takes you through hills and bogs, past the small loughs of Creggan and Leinnapollbruty. The waymarked loop takes about two and a half hours, starting and finishing at the harbour. Bring your camera along and capture the dominating presence of Knockmore Mountain, coming in at 462 metres high it's the highest peak on the island.

Swap the hiking boots for an eBike from Shoreline Pursuits. You can take your pick from their selection of pedal assist bikes before heading out for a day of exploring. All you have to do is remember to return your bike once you're done. 

Go for a dip

Find Clare Island Beach right at the harbour, a perfect spot to sit and watch the world go by. On the north-east of the island under the watchful eye of the lighthouse, there’s a sheltered cove where you can take a peaceful dip in the water. This small harbour is used by local fisherman and close by, you’ll see the small waterfall flowing down the cliff face.

Experience festival fun

Clare Island may be remote, but it transforms into vibrant hub of activity during the summer months. Time your visit to coincide with the Clare Island Regatta Festival in July to see traditional currach boats compete against each other in the open water. The craic is mighty on land as locals throw themselves into the festivities with the annual tug of war competition, plus there are child-friendly activities on offer, including the egg and spoon race. 

Travel back in time at the Bard Summer School and explore the island’s ancient myths. The festival takes place every year in July and welcomes visitors from around the world to share in Clare Island's age-old traditions. Experience the island’s ancient past through music, poetry, song and dance, follow in the footsteps of local legends on an island tour and cap it all off with a traditional Celtic feast.   

Cinephiles will want to add the annual Clare Island Film Festival to their September calendar. The intimate  celebration screens short films across several genres in secret venues dotted around the island, so keep an eye out for this year's line-up.

Embrace history and heritage

The small island is rich in history, from megalithic tombs to holy wells. Go all the way back to the 12th century on a visit to Clare Island Abbey. Rumoured to be the site where Grace O'Malley was baptised, married and buried, the abbey holds a special place in the island's medieval history. Step inside and admire the wall paintings once commissioned by O'Malley chieftains, depicting everything from dragons and stags to men on horseback.

As you explore the beautiful landscape, look out for the Napoleonic signal tower on the island’s western point. It was built in 1804 in response to the threat of an invasion during the Napoleonic Wars and though it's no longer in use, it's a great spot for history buffs to visit. You'll also find the remains of fulachta fiadhs (cooking mounds) and tillage ridges left over from pre-famine times when the island’s population peaked at 1,700 people.

Plan a yoga retreat

It’s hard to imagine a more relaxing setting to find your inner zen than at Macalla Farm, an organic farm and retreat centre. Book in for a stay and take a beginner’s yoga class, or learn the tricks of the trade by training to become a yoga teacher. While you're here, learn about the farm's commitment to conscious living and the importance of sustainability.

Stone Barn Café

Macalla Farm is also home to the Stone Barn Café, an intimate vegetarian restaurant that offers an impressive selection of fresh dishes made with fresh produce grown onsite. Pop by for lunch during the summer months and choose between delicious sandwiches, homemade soup and hearty baked treats, or save it for dinner and indulge on their six-course tasting menu. Although they are closed to the public during autumn and winter, they do offer private group bookings for those looking to celebrate a special occasion. 

Anchor Bar and Bistro

Take a stroll along the strand before grabbing a bite at the Anchor Bar and Bistro inside The Community Centre. Start off your meal with their homemade seafood chowder before moving on to their beer battered pollock with chunky chips and tartare sauce. Once you're stuffed, head to the bar for a pint and an evening of trad music, set dancing, sean-nós singing and even poetry.

Clare Island Lighthouse

Treat your other half to a romantic getaway at Clare Island Lighthouse. Perched on the rugged cliffs, the luxury rooms are furnished with wood-burning stoves, cast-iron beds and stunning artwork. Couples can chill out together while solo travellers tend to mingle with guests in the drawing room and kitchen in the heart of the lighthouse, formerly the lighthouse keeper’s home. Plus, it's dog-friendly so feel free to bring your furry friend along for the fun. It fills up fast so make sure you book in advance.