Claggan Island
Anthony Hickey of the website, www.Mayo.Me, was inspired to write the following after visiting Claggan island.
A few hours walking on Claggan Island near Belmullet is an escape to a magical world of tranquility
and wonderful coastal scenery on the Wild Atlantic coast of Co Mayo.
Claggan Island (Oileán Chloigeann) has the distinction of being Mayo’s newest island – having only being officially declared an island in 1991.The tiny island is situated on the north-eastern corner of Blacksod Bay, about 12kms from Belmullet, in the townland of Bunnahowen (Bun na hAbhna) and in the parish of Kilcommon (Cill Chomáin). It has a population of just 8 people and is one of the Mayo Discovery Points on the Wild Atlantic Way. The island is linked to the mainland by a narrow, sandy causeway that divides Trawmore Bay from Blacksod Bay and it is circled by beautiful sandy beaches in every direction you look.
It is ideal for people who want to get away for a peaceful holiday. The island is 150 acres approx and offers some amazing views of Achill & the Mullet peninsula. The Island offers some beautiful walks along miles of sandy beaches. A walk around the North side of the Island is a must, where Seals and Otters can be spotted from the cliff top. Various birds can also be observed. Rock fishing is a relaxing way to pass an evening. Caves can be also explored at low tide.