The breathtaking Irish beach with golden sand, island boat trips, basking sharks and rooms from €130 a night
THIS fabulous Irish beach boasts a long stretch of golden sand and is perfect for a relaxing walk, swim or sunbathing.
Carrowmore beach in Mayo is located on the coastline nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way and looks out onto the impressive Clare Island.
The Blue Flag beach, which is just four minutes from the bustling town of Louisburgh, has been described by impressed visitors online as a "hidden gem" and a "little piece of heaven".
The sandy beach is backed by low machair grasslands and dunes with views of the distant mountains.
It commands spectacular views of Clare Island, Achill Island and the opposite shore of Clew Bay.
It is around half a mile in length and stretches from Carrowmore Quay around to the Bunowen River.
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And those looking to take a refreshing dip in the waters are in luck, as the beach is safe to swim and patrolled by lifeguards during the bathing season.
It is set in a rocky outcrop in a small bay at Clew Bay and is known as one of Ireland’s rarest wildlife habitats.
The machair grasslands are home to many birds, plants and insects.
There are lifeguards in the summer, as well as toilets, though there are no ramps or other facilities for disabled people.
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There is a pier at the west end of the beach while the eastern border is the mouth of the Bunowen River.
SHARKS & DOLPHINS
The Louisburgh area is abound with marine life and basking sharks favour the deep water.
There have also been multiple sightings of bottlenose dolphins.
The fascinating creatures show up in pods and they are known as the brash and brilliant show-offs of the sea.
Those hoping to take a trip out to the nearby islands, The Clare Island ferry offers a year round service.
The cruise from Roonagh Quay (west of Louisburgh) to Clare Island takes between 15 to 20 minutes.
The journey gives you just enough time to view and photograph a most spectacular coastline which includes Achill Island, the Nephin mountain range, the islands of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s famous pilgrimage mountain) and Inishturk.
ISLAND TRIP
And if you have time, you can travel by boat on to Achill Island, which is renowned for its natural beauty, the highest sea cliffs in Ireland, iconic Keem Bay, soaring mountains and secret beaches.
Two people hoping to take a visit to nearby Louisburgh town in August can stay in West View Accomodation for around €130 a night.
Visitors can also opt to stay in the 4-star Mulranny Park Hotel for around €299 a night.
