Scattery Island
Scattery Island - one of the 'Seven Wonders of Ireland' (Irish Independent, 22 July 2019) is a haven of peace and tranquility located in the Shannon estuary, about 2.5kms from Kilrush and home to an outstanding collection of stone monuments.
There are the ruins of six churches and, with a height of 120 feet, one of the highest Round Towers in Ireland, with the unusual feature of its door at ground level and a refuge for the monks from the Viking invasions during the 9th century.
The island has been home to a monastic settlement for 600 years since its foundation by St Senan in the 6th century and also served as a place of safe harbour for the Spanish Armada and as a defence outpost for the English government, from which time a battery on the island dates. Along with these ruins, the island is adorned with a beautiful semi-natural grassland which is of great interest to ecologists who visit it. The island is indeed a haven for Nature lovers, Walking and Bird Watching enthusiasts.
There is also a holy well on the Island which is said to have healing qualities, its water was enjoyed by the inhabitants of the island for many centuries.
The island also housed over 141 people during 1841 and 1881, mostly river pilots and expert currach handlers. However due to social and economic decline the population of the island began to decrease rapidly from 1926 and has been uninhabited since 1978. This passed life on the island is echoed in the abandoned remains of the community on Scattery. A lighthouse, a street, old cottages and the church 'Teampall na Marbh' which hosts the graves of the people of Scattery, encapsulate the isolated life that was once led on Scattery.
Scattery Island has been awarded with the European Destination of Excellence for 2017 (EDEN). There is a visitor centre on the island and guided tours are available free of charge. →HeritageIreland.ie (External link opens in a new window)
Pictures of Scattery Island
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What else should you visit in West Clare?
Doughmore beach, Loop Head Peninsula, Kilrush Marina, West Coast Aqua Park, Loop Head Alpacas, The Dolphins in the Shannon Estuary, Vandeleur Walled Garden
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B&B, Guesthouses
Keane's B&B
When you step into Keane's, while the facilities are modern and comfortable, the atmosphere is one of stepping back in time. Situated 3 kms from Kilkee on the main Kilrush-Kilkee road (N67), it has grown from shop to pub, to restaurant, to function facilities and accommodation, all the while catering for local, national and international alike.
Phone: 065 9056302 | website
Shannon View Farmhouse B&B; Labasheeda
Traditional authentic farmhouse embracing the turf fire, music and food experience. We offer a range of accommodation options, from our main farmhouse bedrooms to our recently refurbished outhouse conversion. These quaint conversions feature an open fire and loft bar area, together with the option of a communal dining table where you can enjoy traditional Irish food. Custom made car tours!
Phone 085 842 7137 | website
Zoe Bistro & Accommodation
Located in Kilrush, Zoe Bistro & Accommodation offers accommodation with free WiFi and a shared lounge. There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy a meal at the in-house restaurant.
Crotty's B&B Kilrush
Offering comfortable accommodation in the Irish town of Kilrush, County Clare, Crotty's award-winning Pub & Accommodation boasts free Wi-Fi throughout. Guests can enjoy traditional Irish cuisine, and relax in elegant surroundings, with antique furniture and fine fabrics. Each room is comfortable and cosy, furnished in period style. Rooms all overlook the picturesque town centre, and benefit from a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom. Live music is often played in the bar.
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